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
Hallo zusammen,
für mich eines der spannendsten Rennen ist das Northcape 4000. Als ausgewiesenes Nordlicht (wohne in Flensburg) ein absolutes Highlight einmal mit dem Rad ans Northcape
Die Vorbereitung beginnt demnächst….da heißt es erstmal ordentlich Kilometer machen.
LG Daniel
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