RIDER INTERVIEW - CÉSAR MERÁS
Life on Two Wheels: Passion, Freedom, and the Thrill of Ultracycling
For many of us, life on two wheels is an adventure, but for some, it’s a passion that shapes their entire existence. In this interview, we talk to an experienced bikepacker who not only loves the freedom and independence bikepacking offers but is also captivated by the challenge and beauty of ultra-distance racing. Discover what drives him, how he plans and trains for races, and the valuable lessons he’s taken from an impressive 2024 season.
Why Bikepacking is So Special – An Interview with an Experienced Bikepacker
If a stranger asked you to describe yourself in one sentence, what would you say?
Instead of answering directly, I’d encourage them to take a bike journey themselves – or better yet, invite them to one of my regular bikepacking tours with friends. There’s nothing I enjoy more than cycling through remote areas, meeting new people, exploring their traditions, and savoring the local cuisine. After all these years, that’s the pure joy of cycling for me. But self-supported ultra-distance races have also captured my heart over the past four years.
What does bikepacking mean to you?
Freedom and disconnecting from everyday life. I love the unpredictability of what might happen on the road and the unique atmosphere when night falls and there are still miles ahead. Whether solo or with friends, it’s the perfect way to explore the world.
What Kind of Bikepacking Do You Enjoy the Most?
My first bike journey was back in 2007 with two large panniers and a heavy rack. I spent weeks carrying an enormous load. Today, lightweight, technical bikepacking bags make everything so much easier. With the right gear, you can cover greater distances more comfortably and stay organized – a true revolution for any adventurer.
How do you train for races and events?
I start each season by selecting 3–4 ultra-distance races I want to participate in and prepare with shorter events in between. I stay motivated by studying the routes in detail and visualizing the challenges ahead, ensuring I have the right equipment for the terrain.
What does your schedule look like?
I prefer training early in the morning to have the rest of the day for work and family. On weekends, I adjust my training based on how close the next event is. Recently, I’ve added 2–3 gym sessions per week to strengthen often-overlooked muscle groups, which is especially beneficial for ultracycling.
How Do You Plan Your Races?
I analyze my fitness and the difficulty of each race. When riding solo, I push my physical limits with minimal sleep and short breaks. But I also love riding with friends and sharing the journey toward a common goal.
How do you prepare?
Months before the event, I focus on nutrition and getting enough sleep. I train with local cycling partners and go on solo rides to test my gear.
How Did Your 2024 Season Go?
It was an incredible year! I participated in several ultra-distance races in Spain and discovered breathtaking places, including the 500 Millas Cannibal. A highlight was Utopía, a gravel event I rode with a group, Eat Sleep Cycle. The season concluded on La Palma at Gravel Ground – truly unforgettable!
What lessons did you learn from this season?
Challenging moments during some races taught me to stay mentally resilient and better prepared for extreme weather conditions. Having the right gear makes all the difference, and the experiences from this season have broadened my perspective.
Follow the Journey
If you’d like to follow César and his adventures, check out his Instagram Profil.
Foto Credtis:@pataspts, 3: @sergiorecatero, 5: @juanfotos_com, 6 @watermartinez_