{"id":1149420,"date":"2026-08-15T04:53:19","date_gmt":"2026-08-15T04:53:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/1149420\/"},"modified":"2026-08-15T04:53:19","modified_gmt":"2026-08-15T04:53:19","slug":"2026-silk-road-mountain-race-rigs-part-two","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/1149420\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 Silk Road Mountain Race Rigs (Part Two)"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Miles<\/a><\/p>\n

By Miles Arbour<\/a><\/p>\n

Associate Editor & Events Manager<\/p>\n

2,520 Posts<\/a><\/p>\n

Part two of our massive Rigs of the 2026 Silk Road Mountain Race roundup features another 50 loaded bikes taking on the 2,052-kilometer bikepacking race across Kyrgyzstan. Find photos, bag and gear highlights, and more details on all of them here\u2026<\/p>\n

Tomorrow at 8 a.m. local time, over 230 riders will begin their 2,052-kilometer Silk Road Mountain Race journey from Talas, in Kyrgyzstan\u2019s northwest, and will pedal toward the finish in Cholpon Ata, on the north shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. Not only is this year\u2019s route the longest yet, but it also features the most elevation gain. Just 20 percent of the route is on paved roads, and one of the longest new sections is a relatively untravelled area that connects Baetov to the military checkpoint before Torugart. <\/p>\n

Due to the volume of submissions, we split our rig roundup into two parts. Last night\u2019s roundup featured the first 60 riders and rigs<\/a> lining up, and today\u2019s showcases the next 50+ rigs. As with many rugged bikepacking events, flat bars and front suspension seem to be the go-to choices, which checks out given all the unknowns. There\u2019s a mix of lightweight fabric seat packs and rack systems and droppers and rigid posts, and 29 x 2.2\u2033 to 2.4\u2033 tires appear to be the most prevalent pick. As for navigation, the solar-powered COROS DURA is the clear choice.<\/p>\n

Dig into the second batch of rigs below, then head over to our event page<\/a> to follow the riders\u2019 progress in real time once they take off on Saturday morning.<\/p>\n

Kristen Alan
\n Age 32 \/ San Francisco, California (USA)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: A Santa Cruz Highball that answers to froggy. 1\u00d712 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain. SRAM Level T hydraulic disc brakes. RockShox SID SL Base fork with 100mm of travel. Pro Sirin Performance Saddle. Wheels crafted by Doug of Runcible Wheel Works with We Are One Composites Sector Rim, Dynamo Son hub, and Hope Pro 5 hub. Tubeless Maxxis Ikon 29 x 2.35\u2033 tires. Sinewave Beacon 2 to light the way.
BAGS<\/strong>: My favorite bag is my custom safety cone frame bag made by willard. All other bags by Tailfin.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Not pictured: My beloved Komoot Titanium spork. My Albion Cargo Vest that has carried me through all my long rides this year. Sleep kit including Feathered Friends Egret UL 20 sleeping bag, and my Outdoor Research Helium Bivy. Lastly, an Exposure Lights Diablo 15 mounted to my helmet.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 840.<\/p>\n

Zach Both
\n Age 33 \/ USA
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Freshly built titanium Slug Gasser. Shimano XT drivetrain and brakes with 10-51T cassette and 30T chainring. Features SID Ultimate 120mm fork, Redshift cockpit\/suspension seatpost, and custom-built 29\u201d wheels: We Are One carbon rims, Vittoria Mezcal 2.4\u201d tires, SON dynamo hub powering the Exposure Revo 5 light. Bike is affectionately named \u201cTwine\u201d after my grandma\u2019s favorite bovine. Mini cow superglued to front fender.
BAGS<\/strong>: Mostly Tailfin bags with Rogue Panda custom frame bag. Can\u2019t forget the Outer Shell cow print feeder bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Feathered Friends 20F sleeping quilt, Durston X-Dome 1+ tent, Nemo Tensor Extreme sleeping pad, Albion riding kit, trusty Nnormal Kjerag shoes, Patagonia backpack.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Wahoo Element Roam 3. Astrolabe for backup.<\/p>\n

Magnus Creutzfeldt
\n Age 51 \/ Berlin (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Cerv\u00e9lo ZHT-5 carbon hardtail MTB with 29\u201d Lilienthal XC wheels and 2.4\u201d Vittoria Mezcal tires. SRAM GX Eagle mechanical 1\u00d712 drivetrain with a 10\u201352T cassette. The cockpit features a flat bar with 16\u00b0 backsweep, Ergon wing grips, SQlab Innerbarends, and aerobars with a 7cm rise. Up front, I\u2019m running a carbon Lilienthal front wheel with a SON 28 dynamo hub, powering a SON Ladelux light with high beam and charging function, plus a rear light.
BAGS<\/strong>: A mix of a Decathlon frame bag, Tailfin Aeropack, Restrap top tube bag, and an Alpkit Joey handlebar harness with an Ortlieb drybag, plus a food pouch.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My APEX gear tent provides shelter during the race. For cooking, I carry an MSR gas stove and a titanium pot. The SON 28 dynamo hub powers the SON Ladelux light and provides charging while riding.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Steven Davis
\nGirona (Spain)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Cervelo ZFS-5 Full Suspension.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin Aeropack, Top Tube Bag, Tool bag, and Front Bar bag, Poc Feed Bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Schwalbe 2.4\u2033 Wicked Will Tires, E-Thirteen Sylvan wheels with Dynamo.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Wahoo Ace.<\/p>\n

Philip Drechsel
\n Age 32 \/ Bolzano, South Tyrol (Italy)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding the Chiru Highlander, a titanium frame MTB. I opted for titanium, as with all my gear, I am prioritizing reliability over weight. I equipped it with a 1\u00d711 SRAM Eagle 90x mechanical drivetrain and Magura MT8 disc brakes. For suspension, I went with a 120 RockShox Sid Ultimate fork and a Redshift suspension seatpost. The rims are Panchowheels Stryke 29\u201d with a Son 28 dynamo that powers a kLite MTB front and rear light. The aero bars I chose are by Profile Design.
BAGS<\/strong>: I went with Tailfin for most bags. The large Tailfin MTB Bar Bag will carry my clothes, the Cargopack will carry my sleep system, and the two 10L pannier bags will carry food and other essentials, the downtube bag is for tools and spares. On the top tube, I have an Apidura bag for my electronics. I will also be wearing a USWE 3L hydration pack, which, including my bottles and water filter bag, will give me 6L of water capacity.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My sleep system is composed of a Durston X-Dome 1+ tent with a Rab pad and a Cumulus sleeping bag.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar, Garmin Enduro 3 watch, and a Garmin inReach Mini 2.<\/p>\n

Doug Dunlop
\n Age 58 \/ Calgary, Alberta (Canada)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Trek Checkout SL Custom build with Shimano GRX\/XT wireless, Nobl SON dynamo front wheel, Cinq 6 USB converter, Project 321 Reserve rear wheel, Rene Herse Fleecer Ridge Endurance tires with Silca Sealant.
BAGS<\/strong>: Coldbike frame bag and top tube bag, Tiger 3D-printed cockpit system and upright plate for Checkout rack (mounts the Old Man Mountain 3-pack bag upright), OMM trunk bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I sleep well outdoors, and I plan to stay in my Durston X-mid pro, on my Nemo folding foam mat, in my Patagonia sleeping bag most nights.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: I will have a Coros Dura. I had many navigation errors last time, before I got the Coros. I also have my reading glasses with me, and my iPhone with RWGPS as backup.<\/p>\n

Marcin Grudzinski
\n Age 47 \/ Krakow (Poland)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Specialized Epic 8 pro, Duke rims + hope\/SON26. 29 x 2.35\u2033 Pirelli. 30T\/10-52 SRAM AXS.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin full set.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Supernova M99 pro + Supernova Redstream, SON26 + Cinq powerbank + Supernova.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Hammerhead Karoo 3.<\/p>\n

Michael Kneip
\n Age 43 \/ Basel (Switzerland)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Kocmo Titanium MTB with SRAM XX Transmission drivetrain, DT Swiss 1501 wheels, and 2.35\u201d Tufo MTB tires. SON Edelux dynamo front light.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin system featuring Cargo pack, top tube bag, and Barcage with Front Roll. Enabags custom framebag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: MSR FreeLite tent, Cumulus X-Lite sleeping bag, and Lupine headlight. <\/p>\n

Victor Kouzov
\n Age 30 \/ Sofia (Bulgaria)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Drag Akira (still in R&D) straight from
our family owned bicycle company based in Sofia. The bike is equipped with mix of Sram Transmission XX and GX and Shimano XTR Brakes. Durable Mavic Enduro SL Wheels rolling on Schwalbe Rick XC Tires. Aerobars to let the arms rest a bit and Crankbrothers Eggbeater pedals to stay clipped in.
BAGS<\/strong>: Those are all new to me since the route requires to bring a lot of gear. Rear rack, Top Tube Bag and Down Tube Bag. Aerobarbag and and a small pouch.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Lots of gear that will hopefully keep me warm. I really enjoy my UV resistant long sleeve from Endura. Fizik Ergolace Shoes if hiking is required.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin 1040 Solar + Garmin 1040 (just realized that neither of them has the map of Kyrgyzstan so let\u2019s see how that goes).<\/p>\n

Rob MacLennan
\n Age 26 \/ Chicago, IL \/ London, UK
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding my full suspension 2018 Giant Anthem Advanced 1, running the SRAM GX Eagle 1\u00d712 drivechain with 32T Chainring and 10-52T cassette. 27.5\u2033 wheels with 2.3\u2033 Teravail Ehlines. Comfortmaxing with Redshift 70mm Top Shelf Handlebars and Aerobars, Ergon GS2 grips and inner bar ends for 4 different hand position.
BAGS<\/strong>: Brooks Scape Frame Bag, 2x Feed Bags and Saddle Pouch. Tailfin 3L top tube bag and 3L downtube bag. Old Man Mountain 12L Atlas Rack Pack for sleep system and clothes.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Brooks C13 carved saddle and a whole tub of Chamois Buttr. Fidlock magnetic bottles to maximize use of frame space and minimize chances of lost bottles. Moon Rigel front and rear lights.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Emma Missale
\n Age 29 \/ Copenhagen (Denmark)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Alonukis ERT with Fox 32 fork. Ti seatpost, stem and riser bars from Omnium. Redshift Sports aero bars. SQLab grips and inner bar ends. Brooks England C17 carved saddle. Hope Tech x2 brakes. I run a SON hub and Hope Tech pro5 hub on Wizard Wheel 30mm carbon rims. Galfer Bike 6-b rotors. Ultradynamico tires, Mars Robusto 2.2\u2033 in the front and Brut Robusto 2.1\u2033 out back. Enduro bearings MaxHit bb, Cane Creek Hellbender headset and eeWings crankset (160mm) with an Aarn 32T chainrig. SRAM Eagle XO 12s derailleur, XS-1275 T-type Eagle 12s cassette 10-52T, XO T-type Eagle 12s chain. Ti King Cage on top tube and rack. Favero Assioma Mx1 pedals. kLite light and charging system.
BAGS<\/strong>: All Restrap! Switch Rack with 7L dry bag, top tube aero race bag, handlebar bag (7L), custom frame bag and down tube bag. Hydro backpack.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Every piece of Albion gear and my Aeon Li Tarptent! First time with proper nutrition with TaterBoost and Carbs fuel gel!
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: I\u2019m using a Wahoo Elemnt Bolt V3 and a spare old Elemnt + Garmin inReach 2.<\/p>\n

Leah Missik
\n Age 36 \/ Seattle, Washington (USA)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I will be riding a Chumba Stella Ti named Volya. She has a 10-52T cassette, a SON dynamo hub with Sinewave lights, and Vittoria Mezcal 2.4\u201d tires. I\u2019ve added Redshift quick-release aero bars, a Mica Rat Tail rack, and rear cages from Fauna Components.
BAGS<\/strong>: I have a smattering of bags. The handlebar bag is Mountain Laurel Designs on an Outer Shell Harness. I have Revelate Designs feed bags and cargo cage bags. On the top of my rack is the Rogue Panda Picketpost. Last but not least, I have a custom frame bag from 7Roads.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My sleep kit includes an Enlightened Equipment quilt (which I love), a lightweight pad from Therm-a-Rest, and the Slingfin Splitwing shelter. I\u2019ll be wearing Ornot droptail cargo bibs and an ice dyed wool t-shirt by my friend @tqm_dyes. I\u2019ll also be wearing the Albion cargo vest, which will help me carry more water.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Bill Mulligan
\n Age 32 \/ Berlin (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding a Trek Supercal 2025. Most of the components are stock, but I\u2019ve upgraded the tires to PIRELLI Scorpion Sport XC M 2.4\u2033 M ProWall, and grips to Ergon GS1 Evo, and added SQlab Innerbarends and Decathlon aero bars.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin Cargopack with 10L Mini Panniers and a Downtube Pack. In front is a Jack the Bike Rack to hold up the Apidura Expedition Handlebar Pack v1.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: On a race this long sleep is important (especially for my wife). We have an Exped Ultra 6.5 R Duo, Enlightened Equipment Down Quilt, and Hyperlight Crosspeak 2 tent.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Wahoo Roam v3 after I melted my v1 in Badlands.<\/p>\n

Diego Navarro
\n Age 36 \/ Bajo de Masinloc (Philippines)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Merman Bicycles Ti DD running 32x20T, Rudy XL 60mm, and 29 x 2.25\u201d Mezcals on Enve AM30 wheels with a SON28 dynamo up front powering a kLite Adventure.
BAGS<\/strong>: South City Stitchworks frame, top tube, and feed bags. Rogue Panda Gila dry bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Mica Rat Tail, SCSW love handles, Zpacks Plex Solo, Nemo sleeping pad, Montbell 0 degree sleeping bag, Plasma 1000 down jacket, rain jacket, rain pants, stove, and alpha direct pants\/hoodie\/socks for sleeping.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura with Garmin Edge 840 Solar as backup.<\/p>\n

Hannes Noller
\n Age 35 \/ Stuttgart (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019m riding my trusty MERIDA BIG.NINE for this year\u2019s SRMR. The bike is equipped with SRAM Transmission with a 32T chainring for the steep stuff. Tires are the Continental Dubnital 2.4\u2033 with Trail Casing for extra protection when it gets rocky. I clipped aero bars to the handlebars and I use a Lupine Piko as a light system. A special add-on is the Flight Attendant RockShox fork for max comfort and less worries about the settings.
BAGS<\/strong>: All my bags are from Apidura. The Handlebar Bag is for the sleeping system (Bivy, sleeping bag, mat). The saddle bag is for all the clothes, and the frame is packed with all my electronics. I also use a Salomon backpack for water and snacks.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Extra space in every bag for extra snacks.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Hammerhead Karoo.<\/p>\n

Andrei Ostanin
\n Age 39 \/ Ome, Tokyo (Japan)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Canyon Lux Trail CF 8 with a 1\u00d712 Shimano XT drivetrain, Vittoria Mezcal 2.25\u2033 tires, SP PL-6-110 dynamo, Deda FASTBLACK2 35 aerobars with custom CNC machined risers, and Ergon GS3 Evo grips.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin and Apidura, with the Tailfin CargoPack, bar bag, 1.5L top tube bag, 2x 5L mini panniers, 3L downtube pack, 1.7L downtube pack, and another 1.7L downtube pack converted to an aerobar pack with some 3D printed parts. 1L Apidura Backcountry Frame Pack and 2x Apidura food pouches.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: The Igaro C1 dynamo light will light my way and keep my devices charged.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 840 Solar with Garmin ForeRunner 965 as backup.<\/p>\n

Mateo Paez
\n Age 34 \/ Bend, Oregon (USA)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: SLUG Gasser made from high grade titanium out of San Francisco. Madrone JAB derailleur linked with Shimano XT cassette, shifter. Mechanical. SRAM brakes. 2.4\u2033 Continental Dubnitals. MICA Rat Tail.
BAGS<\/strong>: Bags from Cyclite and a custom rack bag from 1400 Studio in Germany. Ergon contact points.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: kLite dynamo powered lights. Full head to toe kit from Albion Cycling. Shared tent with my pairs mate Theo Kelsey Verdecchia, we are keeping each other warm at night. Dragonfly double bottle mount from Botched Bikes.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Nick Perkins
\n Age 54 \/ Bogota (Colombia)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding my Specialized Epic Evo 8, a full spec dream bike that\u2019s way above my skill level. For the race I\u2019ll be using Continental Dubnital 2.4\u201d Trail tires, a Wolf Tooth 30T oval chainring, Ergon GP grips and Profile Design aerobars with extra long extensions.
BAGS<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be using a Tailfin cargo rack for my layers and waterproofs, with an Ortlieb fork pack for food on one leg, and a generic anything cage with a Grayl Geopress on the other, a Tailfin long top tube bag for electronics and tools, and a Tailfin handlebar cage with my trusty old Ortlieb handlebar pack for my sleep system (OR Helium bivvy, -5 C down quilt, silk liner, mattress, and down booties).
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I love the Epic\u2019s in-frame storage; it fits 3 TPU inner tubes, tire levers & plugs, and all my spares. Also, the Grail Geopress is a lot heavier than other filters, but I find it faster and easier to use, and I\u2019ve filtered water from stagnant puddles in a pinch with no worries. It also holds 750ml of extra water.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 1040 with a Fenix 7 as backup.<\/p>\n

Vitaliy Petrenko
\n Age 35 \/ Kyiv (Ukraine) \/ Tbilisi (Georgia)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding (not racing) the SRMR on a Nordest Kutxo with a RockShox SID Ultimate, Shimano GRX 1\u00d712 (30T\/10-51T), Ascend Components SL dropper post, Maxxis Rekon Race 2.35\u2033 tires, and Deore brakes.
BAGS<\/strong>: A big mix of brands, including a Swift Industries Zeitgeist, Apidura frame bag, Tailfin top tube and downtube bags, KasyBag feedbags, Mica Rat Tail rack with a dry bag on top and Ortlieb Fork-Packs on the sides, plus a CamelBak Chase Race 4L vest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Naturehike Mongar 2 UL for luxury nights, Exped SynMat + AegisMax Twilight II Plus quilt, and plenty of warm clothes. Considering taking a small spirit burner for hot meals.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM v2.<\/p>\n

Mario Planchesteiner
\n Age 34 \/ Tremosine sul Garda (Italy)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding the Silk Road Mountain Race on a Bombtrack Beyond+ upgraded with a Fox 32 Step-Cast Factory suspension fork. My wheelset features a SON Dynamo front hub to keep things powered, and I\u2019m running a reliable SRAM GX 1\u00d712 drivetrain.
BAGS<\/strong>: My setup centers around a Revelate Designs Ranger EcoPac frame bag, paired with a Miss Grape Cluster 13L seat bag out back. Up front, I\u2019m using the Miss Grape IL COSO handlebar harness holding a Revelate Designs dry bag, plus a Rhinowalk top tube bag for easy-access items. I\u2019ll also be carrying a Ferrino 10L backpack for additional capacity and hydration.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: For my sleep system, I\u2019m carrying a Ferrino Piuma tent along with a SOL Escape Lite bivy bag for added protection\/versatility, and a Robens Couloir 350 sleeping bag rated down to -4\u00b0C.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Primary navigation will be handled by a Garmin Edge 540, with a Garmin Fenix 6 Pro on my wrist as a backup.<\/p>\n

Vlad Podofedov
\n Age 30 \/ Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Custom titanium frame, Fox 32 fork, SRAM GX T-Type drivetrain, DT Swiss EX1700 wheels, and Maxxis Rekon Race tires.
BAGS<\/strong>: Sarmatian Bags frame bag, 12L seat bag, and top-tube bag. This year, I\u2019m carrying water and snacks in a hydration pack and jersey pockets.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Aegismax Nano sleeping bag, Outdoor Research Helium bivy, and Therm-a-Rest XLite sleeping pad.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Fenix 7.<\/p>\n

Koen De Potter
\n Age 52 \/ Kruisem (Belgium)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Lux World Cup CF 8, DT Swiss XRC 1700 carbo wheels with Vitoria Barzo 2.25\u2033 tires.
BAGS<\/strong>: The Ortlieb seat tube bag and the Ortlieb Handle bar bag, Tailfin bottom tube bag, small topeak top tube bag, custom made frame bag from 7 Roads.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My sleep system consists of the MSR Hubba Hubba tent, an Alpkit dow sleaping bag -5 degrees, and a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir sleeping pad. Instead of a dynamo, I carry 2 power banks (20k and 10k). I use the Restrap cargo vest with a 2L bladder, the 1L Katadyn BeFree AC Waterfilter and 3x 0.5L flask bottles.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 830 and as backup my Garmin Phenix 6X solar.<\/p>\n

Jocelyn Powelson
\n Age 34 \/ Bentonville, Arkansas (USA)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding my 2018 steel Salsa Fargo. This bike can take many forms, but for SRMR, I\u2019ve mounted a suspension fork and flat bars and aero bars on it. I have a mixed SRAM\/Shimano 1\u00d712 drivetrain with a 30T chainring, and 2.4\u2033 Vittoria Mezcals mounted on Industry Nine alloy rims with a SON dynamo hub. And hopefully my trusty Brooks saddle will keep me mostly pain-free.
BAGS<\/strong>: On the front, I have a Salsa Anything Cradle, in the middle, I have a Revelate Designs full frame bag and feed bag, and in the back, an OMM Elkhorn rack with Blackburn cages on the sides.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I\u2019ve had a lot of help from friends to piece everything together (lending me gear to use, helping me build my wheel set, tuning my bike, getting me industry discounts, etc), so the biggest highlight for me is being able to look down at my bike and remember all of the people watching my dot and rooting for me!
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura. I\u2019m excited to see if it can last the whole race without needing to be recharged at all!<\/p>\n

Jonathan Quarrie
\n Age 50 \/ Rossland, BC (Canada)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding (and hopefully finishing ahead of the snail) on a 2025 Pipedream Sirius S6 steel hardtail with a 120mm RockShox Pike. The build has been put together with reliability, comfort, and ease of repair as the priorities rather than chasing every last gram. It rolls on Vittoria Mezcal 29 x 2.4\u201d tires with a SON dynamo hub up front for lights and charging, and a Hope hub in the rear laced to DT Swiss and Race Face rims. The drivetrain is SRAM with a Hope bottom bracket, 155mm Hope cranks, a 28T chainring, and an X01 chain. Stopping duties are handled by Hope Tech 3 E4 brakes. A Stooge Moto Bar, aerobars, and SQlab Innerbarends provide plenty of hand positions for the long days between resupplies, while a Brooks C17 saddle hopefully has my butt.
BAGS<\/strong>: Apart from a Revelate Designs handlebar roll, all of the bags are homemade by myself and sewn specifically for this trip. The large rear bag sits on a Mica Rat Tail rack, while a pair of homemade micro panniers provide extra food capacity for the long, remote stretches between villages.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: A kLite dynamo lighting and charging system keeps everything powered from the SON hub. Sleep kit consists of a Big Agnes Copper Spur tent (my partner Lois and I are riding the event together), a Feathered Friends Hummingbird sleeping bag, and a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Navigation will be on a Coros Dura. My backup is my wife\u2019s Dura, followed by my phone if everything else fails.<\/p>\n

Collin Quentin
\n Age 36 \/ Bayonne (France)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019m riding a CHIRU Kegeti. It features Duke wheels with a SON dynamo hub and a pair of 2.3\u2033 Hutchinson Skeleton tires. I\u2019m running a Shimano GRX groupset with a 30T chainring and an 11\u201351T cassette. I\u2019ve also fitted a 100mm RockShox SID suspension fork, adding extra control and comfort on rough terrain.
BAGS<\/strong>: The main bags are a custom frame bag by Atelier Rebi\u00e9, a Tailfin CargoPack, and a Revelate Pronghorn. I also have smaller Tailfin bags mounted on the top and down tubes. Finally, two homemade food pouches complete the setup.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I like my Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo tent for its low weight and the fact that it packs down really small. It makes for a comfortable sleeping shelter when paired with a Sea to Summit -1\u00b0C quilt and a NEMO Tensor All-Season sleeping mat. I also carry a small, spill-proof alcohol stove. For documenting the adventure, I\u2019ll be bringing an OM System OM-3 with its compact 17mm f\/1.8 lens.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be using a COROS DURA for navigation.<\/p>\n

Gabriel Rancourt
\n Age 40 \/ Quebec City, Quebec (Canada)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be taking on the Silk Road Mountain Race aboard a 2026 Trek Supercaliber V2. My main goal is to reach the finish line healthy and still smiling, enjoy the experience, and, of course, push as hard as I can along the way. The bike is a fast, lightweight full-suspension build designed to handle long days and rough terrain. It features a RockShox SID Ultimate fork with a 3.1 damper and a single remote controlling the lockout for both the fork and rear suspension. The cockpit includes a 60mm-rise downhill handlebar, a 150mm dropper post, and an Infinity off-road saddle. The bike is equipped with the latest Shimano XTR drivetrain, including electronic Di2 shifting, a 30T chainring, and the more durable XTR Enduro crankset. I\u2019m also using titanium Crankbrothers Eggbeater 11 pedals to save as much weight as possible. It rolls on Shimano XTR carbon Enduro wheels with 29 \u00d7 2.4\u201d Continental Dubnital tires: a Trail Casing with Rapid Compound in the rear and a lightweight Race Casing up front. After breaking a lighter set of wheels in the past, I decided to prioritize strength and reliability this year. These enduro-grade wheels add some weight, but I\u2019m confident they\u2019ll withstand the demanding terrain of the Silk Road Mountain Race. To help offset that extra weight, I\u2019ve removed my entire aerobar system for this race. Braking is handled by four-piston XTR brakes with a 180mm front rotor and a 160mm rear rotor. I\u2019ve also added a front mudguard for extra protection in poor conditions.
BAGS<\/strong>: My main luggage system is a carbon Tailfin Speedpack with two 5-liter side bags. I\u2019m also using Tailfin\u2019s long top tube bag and a custom frame bag made by Rogue Panda. For additional hydration capacity, I\u2019ll carry a 3-liter bladder inside the Rogue Panda frame bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My sleeping system consists of a bivy bag paired with a Sea to Summit Spark Pro sleeping bag rated to -5\u00b0C. Another key piece in my setup is the Infinity off-road saddle, chosen for comfort over very long days. I\u2019ll carry my drinking water in a hydration pack on my back, supplemented by the 3L bladder stored in the frame bag. For nighttime riding, I\u2019ll use a Sinewave front light. Although it is a dynamo-compatible light, I\u2019ll be powering it with batteries rather than a dynamo hub this year.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be using a COROS DURA for navigation.<\/p>\n

Thibault Randoin
\n Age 35 \/ Clermont Ferrand, Auvergne (France)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Specialized Epic Evo S-WORKS 2023.
BAGS<\/strong>: My frame bag, which is the centrepiece of my load, is made to measure by a French workshop. A big shout-out to Atelier Rebi\u00e9, they\u2019re brilliant! Inside, I\u2019ll be storing food and a few bits and bobs. At the front of the bike I\u2019ll stow my tent and sleeping bag, and at the back my nighttime clothes.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: The most unusual part of my bike is these bespoke aluminium components, made by friends, to raise my handlebar extensions, which would otherwise be too low, as I\u2019m 1.99 metres tall. You can\u2019t buy these parts in shops; I\u2019m testing them for the first time on the Silk Road, hoping they\u2019ll work well, but they certainly look great! A big thank you to Seb and Christophe for making them!
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar.<\/p>\n

Jan Recker
\n Age 37 \/ Cologne (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Cervelo ZFS-5 with Controltech Aerobars and custom spacer by Additiveworks.
BAGS<\/strong>: Bags are mix of Apidura and Tailfin. Adding it up with a Restrap Rolltop Vest to carry enough food for the long stretches.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My Black Diamond lightweight down hoody. Woho Filter to stay hydrated. Lights are Exposure Toro in combination with an Exposure Joystick helmet light. Tent is a Aper 1.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: a lovely borrowed Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Chris Rennie
\n Age 35 \/ Powell River, BC (Canada)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding and pushing a Panorama Cycles Taiga with Whiskey Scully bars and a Fox stepcast fork. I have a Barzo-Mezcal tire combo on NOBL enduro wheels with a dynamo hub.
BAGS<\/strong>: A real mix of makers collected over the years that mostly do a decent job at holding stuff and keeping it dry. Some custom mini panniers from Ashley at Wanderous bags are helping keep some extra calories and essentials close by. These and a dry bag are held up by a Rat Tail rack from Mica Cycles.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Over the last 7 days of touring from Bishkek to the start in Talas my Patagonia down hoodie and Therm-a-Rest Hyperion bag have kept me consistently warm above 3,000m, my Coros Dura is still at 65% and my Taiga is still feeling comfy on these very rough Kyrgyz roads.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Corus Dura.<\/p>\n

David Rezek
\n Age 45 \/ Knezice (Czech Republic)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Specialized Epic 2022, 1\u00d712 Sram XX1 AXS drivetrain, 34T chainring, RockShox SID SL Brain fork, Continental Dubnital 29 x 2.4\u2033 tires, Roval Control SL VI rims.
BAGS<\/strong>: Acepac Saddle Bag MKIII 16L, Tailfin Bar Cage (+ Bag 11L), Tailfin Downtube Packs 3L, Tailfin Long Top Tube Bag 3l, Apidura Food Pouch 1.2L 2x.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Klymit Insulated V Ultralite SL sleeping mat, Sir Joseph Koteka III 500 sleeping bag.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar.<\/p>\n

Ariane Richter
\n Age 52 \/ Berlin (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I am on my Sour Pasta Party in matte raw. It comes with a Manitou R8 fork with 120mm travel and ProTaper handlebar and seatpost. Wheels are Reynolds 329 Carbon with hubs by Quist and SON, both custom coloured, and Schwalbe tires Racing Ralph\/Ray in 2.35\u2033. I am shifting with a SRAM XX AXS Transmission, 10-52T cassette and taking a 32T chainring. Lights are SON Ladelux. Syntace Aerobars to give my hands a break.
BAGS<\/strong>: With a small bike, bags are always a challenge. Tailfin got me covered with the cargo pack (sleeping kit & meals), a 3L downtube pack (spares & repair), a top tube bag (electronics & essentials) and a medium bar bag with cage for my sleeping bag. In my custom frame bag I carry electronics & extra clothing. For sleeping I am opting for warmth with a Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20F and a Nemo Tensor all-season mat, all in a 2p Lofoten tent from Nordisk. Snacks and hydration go in the Carrie Gere Hydration vest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Flat pedals to reduce stress on my ankles, freeze dried meals to reduce stress in my body (I\u2019m vegan). Ultralight sandals for the river crossings.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Hammerhead Karoo.<\/p>\n

Oscar Rignell
\n Age 28 \/ Cheltenham (UK)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be using my trusty Mason Macro with a SID SL 100mm, 2.4\u2033 wheels (Reckon Race x Vittoria Barzo) and a Cane Creek eeSilk+ seatpost for added comfort on the bike. New specifically for this event are some DT Swiss XM481 32H rims laced to a Son dynamo out front that will be paired with kLite lighting. The groupset is a mechanical 12-speed XT with a 28T chainring for the climbs.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin journey rack and Wit Slingers frame bags and bar roll with a Miss Grape Il Coso handlebar cradle. I\u2019ll also be using a Restrap hydration vest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Bringing with me a MLD Duomid which packs down really small but is incredibly spacious which I\u2019m excited to use. Otherwise I find the SMP saddle to be supremely comfortable.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

John Roe
\n Age 62 \/ South Wales (UK)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding the SRMR on my carbon Canyon Exceed. The bike is fitted with a pair of tubules Vittoria Mezcall 2.4\u201d tyres, SRAM Eagle AXS 12-speed (10-52T) groupset fitted with a 30T chainring and a SON Dynamo hub powering my kLite. I\u2019ll have a Fenix light mounted on my helmet to compliment the kLite and have also fitted a pair of Ergon grips and SQlab inner bar ends to give me a greater variety of riding positions.
BAGS<\/strong>: I\u2019m running a Tailfin CargoPack with two 5L panniers on the rear and a Tailfin Bar Bag up front as well as a pair of their Top Tube bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My Brooks saddle and a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, both for comfort but at different times of the day. I\u2019ll also be taking a Big Agnes Tiger Wall bikepacking tent for those nights in the wilderness.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: My main device is a Coros Dura solar GPS computer with my Garmin Edge as backup.<\/p>\n

Toon Roebben
\n Age 32 \/ Brussels (Belgium)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding SRMR on a Canyon Exceed CF 7 fitted with a 100mm Fox 32 Step-Cast fork and 2.35\u201d Maxxis Ikon tires. My groupset is a mix of Shimano XT and SLX with a 30T chainring and 10-51T cassette. Cockpit comfort comes from Ergon grips and Profile Design aerobars. For lighting, I\u2019m running an Exposure Toro 16 alongside a Petzl headlamp and a Lezyne rear light.
BAGS<\/strong>: I\u2019m using a Tailfin AeroPack for my tent and clothes, a Tailfin top tube bag for electronics, and a Cyclite handlebar bag for my sleeping system. My trusty Apidura frame bag holds tools, spares and snacks. And I\u2019ll wear a Salomon hydration vest for waterproofs, water and food.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I brought a Nemo Dragonfly tent paired with a Sea to Summit Spark sleeping bag, an UL mat, and a pillow for some well-earned comfort. I\u2019ve also loaded a co-curated playlist on my iPhone created by my friends to pull me through the tough times. I\u2019m curious to see what tracks they snuck in for me!
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Jens Van Roost
\n Age 40 \/ Antwerp (Belgium)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding my Mondraker Podium Carbon RR. It\u2019s a sub-8kg XC machine, so let\u2019s hope it will hold up well. Drivetrain is XX1, brakes are XTR. It has a 30mm PiRope wheelset with Dubnital Race Rapid 2.4\u2033 tyres. Saddle is the timeless Selle Italia Flite for style points. H2O capacity is 3L thanks to a nifty bottle cage splitter made by Bryce at Cyclewerks.
BAGS<\/strong>: Framebag and top tube bag are custom by Pierre at FastPackingBags\/Bumpak. Saddle bag is Apidura, feedbags are Revelate, aero bar bag is Cyclite. I also have the small packable Apidura backpack which I only intend to use for the few stretches that require extra large resupplies.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I\u2019m opting for a full tent setup (including a pillow!) and I\u2019ll bring a cooking system as well. Nevertheless, the total kit is still relatively light and compact thanks to a few cool products. My Tent is a Zpacks Plex Solo, sleeping bag is Cumulus Aereal 180, down Sweater is Timmermade SDUL .75. The bike photo above includes 9 meals, so the saddle bag should be much smaller by the time I finish.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Wahoo Roam V2, accompanied by some phone apps like OSMAnd, Ride with GPS, and Google Maps. Very tempted by the battery life of Coros Dura, maybe next time.<\/p>\n

Stephane van Rooyen
\n Age 34 \/ Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding a Scott Scale Gr 10, SRAM S1000 Eagle AXS paired with a 34T chainring kept a float on fresh Vittoria Mezcal XC-TRAIL 2.25\u201d. Zipp Vuka aerobars round out the cockpit.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin Cargo pack, Top tube bag and down tube pack. Apidura backcountry frame bag with 3L hydration bladder, mounted under the aerobars is a Restrap Race aero bar bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Blip shifter on the aerobars, and my Exposure lighting system are favourite additions to the rig. I also have two Tailfin cargo cages mounted to the fork for resupply missions.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin 840 Solar, eTrex Solar as backup.<\/p>\n

Matthew Brennand Roper
\n Age 43 \/ Bristol (UK)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I had a Specialized Chisel hardtail built up by Kris and Ross at Insight Cycles in Bristol after a bike fit with Tony Corke, which was priceless for comfort. Fox Factory 34SL fork and DT Swiss rims. Up front is a Son Dynamo with a Pair of Vittoria XC trails. 2.4\u2033 Barzo on the front and Mezcal on the rear. I went for XC inserts in both wheels. I\u2019ve already taken a chunk out of the rear carbon rim riding at Kegeti so I\u2019m glad I went for a solid build. The Zipp Aero bars are perfect to give my wrists a break.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin all the way. A Bristol based company with exceptional customer service. They sent a spare part to me in Kyrgyzstan! Custom Restrap frame bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Exposure Revo 5 lighting the way and I\u2019ve got a Diablo 15 as a back up. Terra Nova laser Pulse 1 tent and a Rab Mythic Ultra 360 sleeping bag. It takes up most of the rear bag but it\u2019s an insurance policy against the cold. The Redshift Shockstop seatpost was a must.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin 1040 Solar with an old 830 as a back up, along with my Garmin watch. inReach Mini 3 plus for communications. I liked the fact it has voice messaging in an emergency.<\/p>\n

Dmitry Ruchkin
\n Age 37 \/ Moscow (Russia)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Specialized Epic HT frame, RockShox SID SL Select 100mm fork. SRAM XX1 12-speed rear derailleur and chain, e*thirteen Helix Race 10-50T cassette, Neutrino Components 28T chainring. DT Swiss 350 hubs, RaceFace ARC 30 rims, Vittoria Mezcal 29 x 2.25\u2033 tires. Brooks C15 Carved saddle. FARR Aero MTB handlebar + arm rests, Ergon GS3 grips, Togs.
BAGS<\/strong>: Custom framebag, feedbags and jerrycan, all by Sarmatian. Long top tube bag by Nerpa Gear. Restrap saddle bag. Rogue Panda Blue Ridge V2 Handlebar Harness with Gila dry bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Tarptent Moment DW tent, Exped AirMat UL LW mat, Sivera Iriy sleeping bag. Arcteryx Cerium LT down hoody, Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer pants, Sivera Sneg Polartec socks.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura (with OsmAnd+ app as a backup).<\/p>\n

Kate Scarlett
\n Age 43 \/ Victoria (Australia)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Merida Big 9 XT hardtail.
BAGS<\/strong>: Tailfin, Revelate Designs front bag and frame bag, Ulac top-tube bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Restrap hike-a-bike harness, hopefully won\u2019t get too much use!
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 530, plus Ride with GPS on the phone.<\/p>\n

Isabelle Scheyltjens
\n Age 37 \/ Bierbeek (Belgium)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: My loyal companion on the Silk Road Mountain Race will be my 2021 Canyon Exceed CF 5 which got upgraded over the years. It has a 1\u00d712 drivetrain with a 30T chainring and a 10-51T cassette. The bike features Vittoria Mezcal Trail 2.4\u201d tyres on a (Hunt in the front and homemade in the rear) wheelset equipped with a SON dynamo hub. I\u2019ll be using a kLite Ultra adventure front light connected to this dynamo.
BAGS<\/strong>: I\u2019m carrying mostly Tailfin bags, including an 18.9L bar bag for my sleeping system, a small top tube bag for electronics, a 3L half frame bag for random useful things, a 1.7L down tube pack as my oh-sh*t-kit, and a cargo pack with two 10L paniers for clothes, rainwear and food. I am also adding my two favorite Revelate Designs snack bags for extra food.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I\u2019m particularly fond of my Cumulus Aerial 330 sleeping bag, keeping me warm down to -9\u02daC whilst not weighing more than my summer sleeping bag. Next to that I\u2019ll be wearing my all-time favorite Salomon ADV Skin Cross Season 15L hydration vest for extra snacks and water.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura (and a Garmin Edge 840 as a spare).<\/p>\n

Florian Schulz
\n Age 48 \/ Berlin (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I look forward to enjoying the ride on my fairly new steel Sour Pasta Party hardtail, curry coloured, 29\u2033. All my devices are powered by my Son28 hub, including a kLite front and rear light. For the first time I\u2019m riding with aerobars.
BAGS<\/strong>: I\u2019m using a Tailfin Bar Cage, a Fj\u00e4llr\u00e4ven Hoja Seatbag, and I am very proud about my self-made full-frame bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My sleep system consists of an old Therm-a-Rest pad, a nice Cumulus down sleeping bag, and a 2-person Durston tent, because that\u2019s what I had at home. Oh, my midlayer: There is no piece of equipment I spent as much time researching \u2013 once decided I literally ripped off a sleeve at the first test ride. You\u2019ll find me on the trail now with weird looking DIY right hand sleeve, it works. I\u2019m particularly happy about my 6$ Crocs from the local bazar for river crossings and a sticker on my frame by my girlfriend, for general morale and motivation.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Wahoo Bolt 3, a recent replacement device.<\/p>\n

Tom Schwemberger
\n Age 30 \/ Tsukuba, Ibaraki (Japan)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding my custom Liminal Machine Works titanium gravel bike with 2.1\u201d Mezcals and a Lauf fork. The fork is custom painted to match the custom anodizing on the frame. My wheels are 9velo super wide gravel wheels and shifting\/braking is a mix of Shimano GRX and XTR di2. I\u2019m running a 34T oval chainring by Garbaruk and a KMC gold chain. While the frame and Wolf Tooth headset are built around internal cabling, my fork and handlebars are externally routed which makes flying much easier. I am using a SON dynamo for lighting and a custom \u201cteeter-totter\u201d style light\/computer mount on the aerobars. I\u2019m also getting a bit of extra comfort from the Ergonomic split seatpost.
BAGS<\/strong>: I have a fully custom bag set from 7roads consisting of a 3\/4 frame bag and split top-tube bag made of colorful pvc fabric, an aerobar bag with stretchy side pockets, and a hotdog\/bun style rear rack and cradle. The supporting rack is made with the bike by Brian at liminal machine works. I also have a pair of stem\/feedbags for all the snacks I\u2019ll need along the way.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Can I say the frame? Both the frame itself and the anodizing are so special to me as the artwork represents pieces of my story and the people and things I love.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Sofiane Sehili
\n Age 44 \/ Esclauzels, Lot (France)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019m riding a Bombtrack Cale Hardtail with a 100mm Rockshox SID fork, Hunt Proven XC Carbon wheels paired with Rene Herse Fleecer Ridge tires. Shimano XT groupset.
BAGS<\/strong>: Complete set of Miss Grape bags, handmade in Italy.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Fizik saddle and shoes, PEdALED riding kit.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Krzysztof Sienkiewicz
\n Age 34 \/ Warsaw (Poland)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Rockrider Race 900 turned into a drop bar hardtail. SRAM GX Eagle AXS paired with Force E1 levers and RockShox SID Ultimate Flight Attendant. Reverb AXS dropper seatpost for better handling on the descents.
BAGS<\/strong>: A mix of Tailfin and Restrap bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: SON 28 dynamo hub paired with Igaro C1 lamp.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin 1040 solar and a backup Garmin 830.<\/p>\n

Frank Soll
\n Age 67 \/ Brisbane (Australia)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Giant Anthem Advanced 2018, Shimano XTR 30T + 10-52T.
BAGS<\/strong>: Mix of Tailfin and Bikebagdude bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: SON Dynamo hub kLite light and USB charger, GoPro.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin 1040, inReach Mini 2 with the little red SOS button.<\/p>\n

Dennis Stegemann
\n Age 38 \/ Berlin (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Kocmo Tiger Titanium Dropbar Hardtail, Schwalbe Racing Ray and Ralph 2.35\u2033 tires, SON Ladelux and Dynamo, Drivetrain 1 x 12 30T and 10-52T, SRAM XX Transmission.
BAGS<\/strong>: 7R Bags (Frame, TopTube, Snackpacks), Apidura 17L saddle bag und Tailfin 3L downtube.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Aper Gear APEX1 Tent.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin 1040 Solar (still waiting for Garmin 1060 Solar).<\/p>\n

Anton Stychneuski
\n Age 30 \/ Vitebsk (Belarus)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding SRMR on carbon full-suspension bike Orbea Oiz M10 (2025). Tubeless Maxxis Rekon Race 2.4\u2033 front and rear. 30T chainring. I\u2019m also running Profile Design aerobars and Ergon GP1 grips (last-minute purchase) for comfort.
BAGS<\/strong>: Apidura handlebar and saddle bags. And on, into, and under the frame I use bags of Belarussian custom brend Malpa.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Katalle bivy bag with Sivera Iriy -2 sleeping bag and Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura from my friend because of an unheard of battery life and Garmin Instinct Solar as backup.<\/p>\n

Kristen Tonsager
\n Age 43 \/ Denver, Colorado (USA)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be racing the brand new Revel Ranger V3! She will be sporting a Fox 34 SL fork, Revel RW30 Rims laced to I9 Hydra hub\/SON dynamo hub with Vittoria Mezcal 2.4\u2033 tires. I\u2019m running a SRAM Eagle 90 transmission with Shimano XT 4 piston brakes.
BAGS<\/strong>: JPaks, baby! The checker printed Nosepak, Toolpak, FarvaPak, BattPak, Ruksaks, Refugi Race Harness and prototype PegLeg Harness mount will all make another Mountain Race Series appearance. A newly redesigned SeatPak rounds out the bike kit. I will also be wearing a Black Diamond Distance 4 running vest to carry the necessities: toothbrush, cash money, potato chips\u2026.as well as other snacks, BeFree water filter, etc.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be using my Black Diamond Bivy and a Sea to Summit Spark Pro sleeping bag to meet the race gear requirements, while the Fenix BC30 bar light and BCR26R head light will keep me riding through the night. With the probability of wet\/cold weather above 10K, I will also be bringing my Gore Wear rain pants, shoe covers and rain gloves, as well as my Norrona Trollveggen rain jacket. For water sterilization, I\u2019ll be using the AquaMira chemical treatment system, and rely on the plethora of Skratch Labs to overcome the taste!
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 830.<\/p>\n

Galym Torgautov
\n Age 52 \/ Shymkent (Kazakhstan)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: My bike for SRMR 2026 is the Giant Anthem Adnanced-2 model 2024. It has Shimano XT and SLX drivetrain, Fox suspension, Chinese carbon wheels. My saddle of choice is always the WTB Volt. Tires are a new pair of Maxxis Recon Race, they are heavy and have thick sidewalls which is very important for the rough roads of Kyrgyzstan.
BAGS<\/strong>: I chose a full-suspension MTB which has inherently less storage capacity than a hardtail. However, Tailfin\u2019s new Journey Rack and handlebar cradle allowed to accommodate two 14L dry bags full of gear. I purchased this equipment with a discount code provided to SRMR riders, thanks Tailfin! 1.6L top tube bag is also from Tailfin. The frame bag is the custom one made by Sarmatian.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: My camp gear is light and reliable. It includes an OR helium bivy, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir mat and Hyperion sleeping bag. This time I\u2019m taking BRS gas stove, small gas canister, and Firemaple G2 pot cut to size for my morning coffee.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: I will use my trusty Garmin 530 for navigation and my phone as a backup.<\/p>\n

Maksim Valoshyn
\n Age 34 \/ Khatezhino, Minsk region (Belarus)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding a titanium bicycle, Curve, Big Kev (v1) with custom painted rigid fork. Vittoria Mezcal 2.25\u2033 tires. Aerobar Zipp Vuka Clip.
BAGS<\/strong>: Two feedbags, toptube bag and frame bag from local brand Maseybikepack (Belarusian). Ortlieb saddle bag. Restrap downtube bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I also have a Race Hydration Vest from Restrap. A few straps for attaching extra water\/food. Lighting from Fenix. Storm clothing from Albion. A bivy and tarp from Cumulus. A down sleeping bag from Sivera. And a NeoAir XTHERM sleeping pad with a 7.3 r-value. Crocs are the basic footwear.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: For navigation I rely on Coros Dura and my phone.<\/p>\n

Theo Verdecchia
\n Age 30 \/ Toronto, Ontario (Canada)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be racing SRMR as a pair with my friend Mateo on our matching Slug Gassers.
BAGS<\/strong>: Nightingale threadworks framebag, San Util micro panniers, Tailfin top tube bag, Sea to Summit dry bag, Mica Rat Tail rack.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Full sleep kit including a two-person tent, mechanical shifting with a fresh Jab derailleur from Madrone.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Bert Vohn
\n Age 59 \/ Herzogenrath, Northrhine Westfalia (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I am riding a Focus Raven 8.9, bought 2025. It is equipped with the Sram GX Eagle 12-Speed groups with 32T front and 10-52T rear transmission. I exchanged the flat bar with a drop bar and I am using another wheel set including a SON dynamo hub. Rear tyre is a Continental Dubnital and front tyre is a Continental Trinotal, both 2.4\u2033. I put some stickers of my fundraising project at the frame.
BAGS<\/strong>: First time using a Tailfin system. The Cargo bag plus 2 panniers (5L). Rest is a well proven setup for me with the Ortlieb Framepack, the Ortlieb handlebar bag and the Cyclite TopTube bag and Aerobag. I am going to wear a Evoc Pro bag with 1.5L bladder keeping all personal belongings safe and close.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Self made USB charger, Supernova M99 Dynamo front and E3 tail light, Sigma Reco 81 tail light, ultralight tent and decent sleeping system (Sea To Summit, Therm-a-Rest, Sierra Design) for cold temperatures.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 1040 and iPhone as backup.<\/p>\n

David Vomacka
\n Age 49 \/ Litomysl (Czech Republic)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Cube Phenix C:68X SLT teamline, Electronic SRAM XX SL Eagle Transmission 1\u00d712 wireless setup, Powerful Magura MT8 SL hydraulic disc brakes, Fox Float 32 Factory SC fork, Newmen Phase 30 carbon wheelset paired with Continental Dubnital 29 x 2.4\u2033 tires.
BAGS<\/strong>: Apidura saddle pack expedition 16L, Tailfin Bar Cage (+ Bag 11L), Frame bag Apidura Expedition 10L, Racing Top Tube Pack 1L, Apidura Food Pouch 1.2L 2x.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: MSR Hubba HP tent and a Sir Joseph Koteka III 500 sleeping bag.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 840.<\/p>\n

Muhammad Wahyudi
\n Age 32 \/ Indonesia
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Aluminum Dari MTB, Profile Designs aerobars, alumunium 29\u2033 wheels with Vittoria Mescal 29 x 2.35\u2033 tires, RockShox SID Ultimate 120mm fork.
BAGS<\/strong>: AcePack Saddle Bag, AcePack Frame Bag, Acepack tool bag, Instinc 10L vest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: IZZ Down sleeping bag, Thermalite sleeping pad, Ticket to The moon tarp, Tyvek Pinnacle bivvy.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 840 and Coros watch for backup.<\/p>\n

Theresia Waller
\n Age 33 \/ Munich, Bavaria (Germany)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll ride my Cube Phenix C:68X SLT in size S. The technical components are the Sram XX SL Eagle AXS\u2122 Transmission, 12-Speed, Electronic Shifting Systeme, 10-52T cassette, 32T chainring and Magura MT8 SL brake system. Tubeless wheels are Racing Ray \/ Racing Ralph 2.35\u2033.
BAGS<\/strong>: I chose Apidura because of their durability and high quality. I ride with an Apidura long top tube bag (1.8L), handlebar pack (9L), racing frame pack (4L), expedition saddle pack (9L) and two food pouches for water bottles (1.2L plus) on the handlebars. I also carry an EVOC Hip pack Pro 3 with a 1.5L hydration bladder and two water bottles (0.5L). In addition, I also have a packable backpack (13L) from Apidura for food and snacks.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: I treated myself to two really good lights from Lupine: the Blika on my bike and the Pico on my helmet with Bluetooth remote controls on the left and right of the handlebars. I also have a very lightweight and warm sleeping pad, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT and a Cumulus sleeping bag. As a couple, we share the MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack 2 two-person tent. Can\u2019t do anything without chewing gum and I also have my own personal security with me (pair)
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll navigate with a Garmin 1030 on the K-Edge holder.<\/p>\n

Christian Walsh
\n Age 30 \/ Copenhagen (Denmark)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Sour Pasta Party frame built with Shimano XT, 120mm Manitou R8 Pro fork, and some sick DT Swiss XMC1200 wheels that I scored second hand.
BAGS<\/strong>: Sea to Summit dry bag strapped to a Tailfin Journey rack with mini-pannier and a spare cargo cage for extra water. Other bags from Apidura, Tailfin, and REI. Honestly I only recently renounced a pure and masochistic love for touring panniers and thought this stuff was pretty expensive, but they don\u2019t budge on rough trails so I\u2019m happy.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Shoutout to Simon for lending me a Durston X-Dome 1+ tent, which helps me feel secure in the wild weather. I also really like my REI Magma 15 sleeping bag and Arc\u2019teryx Beta SL jacket for all-around outdoor use.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 540.<\/p>\n

Lutz Wellensiek
\n Age 24 \/ Germany
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding a custom LightCarbon full-suspension mountain bike with a RockShox SID suspension, an electronic SRAM GX Transmission drivetrain, and Continental Race King 2.2\u201d tires. The bike has been built specifically for long-distance mountain bikepacking.
BAGS<\/strong>: My setup includes a Tailfin rear rack, a custom full-frame bag, and a custom top tube bag that I designed and sewed myself. I also carry a downtube bag with tools and other heavy items, plus a small fork-mounted cargo bag for additional storage.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: The homemade frame bags are probably my favorite part of the setup. They make the most of the frame space and fit the bike perfectly. My electronics are powered by a large power bank.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin Edge 540 Solar.<\/p>\n

Chun-Chiao Yang
\n Age 28 \/ Taichung (Taiwan)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding a 2017 Specialized Chisel. I fitted the bike with SRAM AXS Rival road shifter paired with the Eagle derailleur since I come from a triathlon\/road cycling background. It runs 2.25\u201d Vittoria Barzo in the front and 2.25\u201d Mezcal in the back. These photos were taken while riding through the Pamirs before the race. A bit of dust and wear seems appropriate to break in the bike before the race.
BAGS<\/strong>: I have a Revalate Designs handlebar bag that holds my whole camping system, and a Revalate top tube snack sack that holds daily nutrition. In the frame is a Moosetreks Mountain bike frame bag that holds my electronics, first aids, and anything I would need quick access to. Then I have a Apidura Backcountry Saddlebag in the back to store my cold kits and clothes. I\u2019ll be carrying an Osprey Berm 4 hydration pack.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: No single piece of gear really outshines the others. I think all the bags and accessories work together for this beautiful build.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura.<\/p>\n

Angus Young
\n Age 30 \/ Hampshire (England)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: Yeti ASR with Hunt proven carbon XC Carbon Spoke wheels, SRAM Transmission, 2.4\u2033 Conti Dubnitals, Hope Tech Evo brakes.
BAGS<\/strong>: Restrap custom frame bag and giant top tube pouch Race saddle bag, Also wearing the Race hydration vest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: New for me for the SRMR is clothing from Albion, Looking forward to giving it a proper test! Expoure Sixpack, helmet and glasses from Julbo. Loads of warm and sleeping kit, I\u2019m not planning on taking any risks in that front.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Coros Dura with a backup Edge 1050 in case it crashes like at TD.<\/p>\n

Artis Zugs
\n Age 44 \/ Riga (Latvia)
\n\"2026<\/a><\/p>\n

BIKE<\/strong>: I\u2019ll be riding The Silk Road Mountain Race on an old slow commute Scott bike. Nothing serious, just a daily ride for fans.
BAGS<\/strong>: Apidura bags. Custom handmade bag. I\u2019m creative and patient. I knew my needs for equipment, had my vision how it should look like and made it happen.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS<\/strong>: Extralite hub, Son dynamo hub, Berdspokes, Porte rims, Cushcore XC, Custom water system in the frame. Lights from kLite, Nitecore HC70.
GPS DEVICE<\/strong>: Garmin 1030 plus, 520, phone as a backup. <\/p>\n

Have a favorite bike or a question about someone\u2019s setup? Let us know in the Conversation below.<\/p>\n

Please keep the conversation civil, constructive, and inclusive, or your comment will be removed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"By Miles Arbour Associate Editor & Events Manager 2,520 Posts Part two of our massive Rigs of the…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1149421,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[4104],"tags":[178046,242178,242179,242182,133844,242180,133843,4230,79,242184,242181,183,16,15,242183],"class_list":["post-1149420","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-cycling","tag-adventure-cycling","tag-bicycle-touring","tag-bike-touring","tag-bike-tours","tag-bike-packing","tag-bikepacking","tag-cycle-touring","tag-cycling","tag-sports","tag-stealth-camping","tag-touring-bikes","tag-travel","tag-uk","tag-united-kingdom","tag-world-travel"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/117097747487652103","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1149420","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1149420"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1149420\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1149421"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1149420"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1149420"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1149420"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}