The Top 10 Ultracycling Races 2025
Ultra-Distance Cycling Races: The Ultimate Test of Endurance, Strategy & Mental Strength
Whether on road or gravel, ultra-distance cycling events push riders to their absolute limits. These races demand physical endurance, mental resilience, and strategic planning like no other.
No matter if you're a seasoned ultra-cyclist or just getting started, these 10 must-ride ultra-distance events in 2025 should be on your radar. With exclusive insights from CYCLITE athletes, we highlight what makes these races so special.
1. The Transcontinental Race (TCR)
📍 Europe | ~4,000 km | Unsupported | 27.07.2025
The TCR is the pinnacle of unsupported ultra-distance racing. Riders must navigate their own route between designated checkpoints—without external support. Strategy, endurance, and quick decision-making in extreme situations are key to success.
💬 "The TCR is not just a race—it’s a journey that changes you. The mental challenge is just as tough as the physical one." – Sebastian Breuer
2. MittelgebirgeClassique (Supported by CYCLITE)
📍 Germany | 1,000 km | Unsupported | 01.06.2025
A hidden gem in the ultra-cycling scene, the MittelgebirgeClassique winds through Germany’s demanding mid-mountain regions. Massive elevation gain and relentless climbs make this race the ultimate test of climbing strength and endurance.
💬 "The MittelgebirgeClassique was a brutal battle against elevation, but one of the most rewarding experiences." – Marei Moldenhauer, CYCLITE Athlete & Winner
🔗 More about MittelgebirgeClassique
3. Race Across France (RAF)
📍 France | 2,500 km | Supported & Unsupported | 11.06.2025
A breathtaking yet extreme challenge, the RAF takes riders through the Alps, Pyrenees, and Provence. A mix of high mountain passes and fast flat sections makes it a true test of strategy.
💬 "Climbing the Col du Galibier after days in the saddle was brutal—but that’s exactly why we race." – CYCLITE Athlete
🔗 More about Race Across France
4. The Atlas Mountain Race (AMR)
📍 Morocco | ~1,200 km | Unsupported | 07.02.2025
Gravel, mountains, and solitude—the AMR is an unforgiving race through Morocco’s remote landscapes. Endless off-road tracks, extreme heat, and high-altitude passes make it a true survival test.
5. The Tour Divide
📍 Canada → USA | 4,418 km | Unsupported | 13.06.2025
A bikepacking classic, the Tour Divide follows the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route from Canada to the US-Mexico border. Remote trails, unpredictable wilderness, and immense elevation gain make this a true bucket-list event.
💬 "The Tour Divide is one of the oldest and toughest bikepacking races in the world. 4,400 km from Canada to Mexico—an adventure like no other." – Mateo Paez, Tour Divide Finisher
6. The Via Race
📍 Italy | 1,000+ km | Unsupported | 26.07.2025
A rising star in the ultra-cycling world, The Via Race takes riders through some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes, from coastal roads to brutal mountain passes.
7. Badlands
📍 Spain | 750 km | Unsupported | 31.08.2025
An off-road race through Spain’s desert landscapes. High mountains, rugged gravel tracks, and extreme temperatures make Badlands one of Europe’s toughest ultra-races.
8. NorthCape 4000
📍 Italy → Norway | 4,200 km | Unsupported | 26.07.2025
An epic ultra-cycling adventure from Italy to the Arctic Circle. This race takes riders through multiple countries, testing them with constantly changing weather and landscapes.
💬 "The NorthCape 4000 runs from Rovereto, Italy, all the way to the North Cape. 3,800 km unsupported—once the clock starts, you’re on your own." – Daniel Gottschalk, NorthCape4000 Winner
9. The Pan Celtic Race
📍 UK & Ireland | 1,600+ km | Unsupported | 02.05.2025
A bikepacking race that celebrates Celtic culture. Rugged coastlines, remote mountain passes, and unpredictable weather give this event a unique character.
🔗 More about The Pan Celtic Race
10. Silk Road Mountain Race (SRMR)
📍 Kyrgyzstan | ~1,800 km | Unsupported | 16.08.2025
An extreme ultra-endurance race featuring brutal trails, river crossings, and high-altitude mountain passes. This is about more than just speed—it’s about survival.
💬 "The Silk Road Mountain Race is one of those epic adventures that fascinates bikepacking enthusiasts worldwide." – Lorenz Eimansberger, SRMR Participant
How to Prepare for an Ultra-Distance Race
🚴♂️ 1. Your Training
✔ Long endurance rides to build stamina
✔ Climbing sessions if your race involves high elevation
✔ Night rides—many events run 24/7
🥤 2. Your Nutrition
✔ Test your race-day food during training
✔ Plan fuel stops for quick calorie intake
✔ Hydration is crucial—especially in remote areas
🧳 3. Your Gear
✔ High-quality lights & backup navigation
✔ CYCLITE Bikepacking Bags: Ultra-light, reflective, perfectly organized
✔ Weather-appropriate clothing for maximum flexibility
Conclusion: Your Next Ultra Adventure Awaits!
Ultra-distance races are more than just a sport—they are journeys of adventure, personal limits, and self-discovery. Whether you’re racing or taking on a solo challenge, preparation is everything.
💬 Which ultra event excites you the most? Let us know in the comments!
🚀 Gear up for your next adventure:
🔗 Discover CYCLITE Gear
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