Rigs of the 2025 Silk Road Mountain Race (Part Two)

In yesterday’s first Rigs of the 2025 Silk Road Mountain Race roundup, I introduced this year’s bikes with some insight into the staggering number of flat-bar setups and the lack of drop bars. This theme continues today with just 11 drop-bar bikes and a whopping 59 flat-bar setups. It wasn’t long ago that endurance cyclists were constantly pushing drop bars for their aerodynamic benefits and optimal hand positions, but it appears that ship has sailed. Are drop bars out?

No matter your handlebar preferences, I’m excited to present the second part of our massive 2025 Silk Road Mountain Race rig roundup, featuring another 70-some riders that will be out tackling the race. This year’s event follows a challenging 1,954-kilometer route with reduced pavement, slightly less climbing, and an entirely new 730-kilometer section that has never been used in the Silk Road Mountain Race before. The 2025 edition started from Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan, just a few hours ago, at 6 p.m. local time.

For more, you can head to the Mountain Races website to dot watch, follow Silk Road Mountain Race on Instagram for daily visual updates, and subscribe to the Mountain Races Podcast for audio updates from the field. You can also follow race updates via our Tracker here on the site.

Karpukhin Eugenij

Age 30 / Ulyanovsk (Russia)

BIKE: Aspect AMP CF X, X-Fusion RC32 fork, RYET carbon wheels, Maxxis Rekon Race 2.25″ tires, 11-50T cassette and a 32T chainring.
BAGS: Apidura expedition series.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Katal’e Bivy Bag, Klymit Inertia Ozone pad, Sea to Summit Spark SPIII sleeping bag.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura.

Eric House

Age 36 / Conroe, Texas (USA)

BIKE: Chumba USA Sendero Steel, singlespeed 32x18T.
BAGS: Custom South City Stitchworks colorful bags comfortably hug the frame and carry all my snacks and clothes! Old Man Mountain Elkhorn rack and Atlas pack hold my sleep kit.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: The Chumba is equipped hand-crafted titanium Doom Bars for comfort and stability. The sleep kit consists of the Big Agnes 30 degree bag wrapped by the Outdoor Research bivy. kLite system keeps the trails bright and my electronics charged. Also, my Arkansas Doom gremlin bell and my ghostly buddy, Bella Boo and my duel bell keeps the wolves at bay (all bikes deserve a good bell). Oh! And a Silca mini pump!
GPS DEVICE: Garmin inReach Mini 2.

Alexey Kindyakov

Age 37 / Almaty (Kazakhstan)

BIKE: Custom Giant XTC Advanced 19’ build, Fox 34 120mm, carbon giant XCR wheels with DT hubs, tires are Schwalbe Rick XC 29 x 2.4″ TL, drivetrain 11-speed Shimano XT mix 32T 11-52T, Profile Designs aerobars, Ergon flex seatpost, ESI grips, Selle Italia x-bow saddle.
BAGS: All bags are custom made by Serbian bag maker Nerpa Gear, except the large Terrapin saddle bag from Revelate Designs.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Outdoor Research Alpine bivy with 0°C sleeping bag, compact cooking set with 700ml pot which accommodates 100g gas canister and BRS stove with aluminium foil windshield. It fits in my feedbag. Double duty “MichelinMan” down pants and jacket set to keep warm during the night rides and to get extra warm for sleeping if needed. Membrane gloves and socks.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Fenix 7x as main device and iPhone with Guru maps app as backup.

Dmitrii Kholodik

Age 36 / Saint-Petersburg (Russia)

BIKE: The bike features a new pair of Vittoria Mezcal 2.25” tires, a modified 1×11 drivetrain with a 50T cassette, and DT Swiss XM581 wheels with Shimano HT hubs. One other modification is PRO aluminium aero bar with arm rests on the handlebars. I also have a SR Suntour suspension seatpost.
BAGS: For storing my clothes and food I’m using an Ortlieb Gravel-Pack. The 15L handlebar bag is used to keep my sleeping bag dry. The removable bag on the frame is convenient for storing small things and phone. A bulky Blackburn bag with many pockets is used in the main triangle.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: An Outdoor Research bivy will serve as my refuge. I’ll also use a Marmot Mad River 15 down sleeping bag and a Sea to Summit mat.
GPS DEVICE: I’m using a battery-powered Garmin 450.

Lukas Klement

Age 30 / Kourim (Czech Republic)

BIKE: Scott Spark, 120mm suspension, Equator wheelset, AXS shifting.
BAGS: Just Apidura, to keep it dry and under one brand.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Fred bar, because I have an integrated cockpit, and JOES SUPERSEALANT.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura.

Michael Knottek

Age 37 / Bavaria (Germany)

BIKE: Orbea Alma M21, Syntace carbon wheels, Son dynamo hub, Redshift suspension seatpost, Profile Designs aerobars with blips. Rolling on Vittoria Mezcal 2.35″ tires.
BAGS: Mix of Apidura Race and Expedition series.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 540.

Alexander Kopp

Age 38 / Innsbruck (Austria)

BIKE: I will ride my Specialized Epic with an Intend Samurai Fork and Intend Hover rear shock, Hunt proven Wheels XC Dynamo, Continental Dubnital tires, and Shimano 12-speed (30/51T).
BAGS: All the Bags are from the awesome brand Tailfin.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Supernova lite setup, Cumulus sleeping bag, Apergear Tent, a lot of motivation from my side.

Eddie Kouiss

Age 59 / Noordwijk, Zuid Holland (The Netherlands)

BIKE: I’m riding a Specialized SWorks Epic World Cup made available by Van Herwerden Way to Bike, with Ritchey drop bars, leap top shifters on the Specialized Fast Trak GridLite T5/T7 2.2. SRAM Force brake levers, Hope RX4+ brakes, 180/180mm Hope disc. Trucativ Carbon crankset 32 x 10-52T.
BAGS: Tailfin cargo, Revalate Designs front roll, Apidura food packs.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Running a SON dynamo hub with Son head light extra head light. Adventure hike cloud up lite 2 person tent.
GPS DEVICE: I’m using a Garmin 1040 and a Garmin Explorer as a backup.

Daniel Kuhne

Age 36 / Freiburg im Breisgau (Germany)

BIKE: I’ll be riding the Silk Road on a Nordest Britango 2. The bike features a pair of Vittoria Mezcal 2.35/2.25” tires, a 1×11 drivetrain with a 30T chainring. This time I’ll use a Front wheel with SON Dynamo hub and supernova m99 lights. For different hand positions, I’ve added some Pro Missle triathlon bars and Ergon grips. Shout out to Elias for milling some custom risers for me! To protect my most important part I added a redshift suspension seatpost.
BAGS: The centerpiece of my bag setup is a custom frame bag made by Lewin. I added a wild mix of other bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Definetly the custom bag and the bar risers!

Koves Lajos

Age 41 / Varpalota (Hungary)

BIKE: This will be the fourth time participating in the SRMR. In previous years, I had a gravel bike, but this year I switched to an MTB. I’ll be riding the 2025 Silk Road Mountain Race on a 2023 Mondraker F-podium SE. The bike features a new pair of Maxxis Ikon and Ardent Race 29 x 2.25″ EXO TR tires, an AXS 1×12 drivetrain with a 30x52T chainring. For my wheelset, I have custom DT Swiss M462 rims to SP Dynamo and DT Swiss 350 hubs. I have Ergon/Sprigrips, and G2 Hydraulic 4 piston brakes. Some recent upgrades I’m excited about include an aero handlebar and a kLite Ultra adventure lighting system.
BAGS: In my frame triangle I have a custom Horizont_Makes waxed canvas bag filled with bike tools, parts, and food. Therefore it is full of Apidura bags and the final pack is always chaotic. Gears everywhere, last minute tweaks, triple-checking what I have already checked out.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I use a Sea to Summit sleeping bag with The North Face Assault 2 Bivvy to sleep. All the cold weather and rain gear to keep warm in the Greek mountains. I’m taking a mix of Pedaled products with me. Blistering hot temperatures during the day, high chances of rain or snow and riding through the night are all things to be considered.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin 1050 for navigation with Ride with GPS maps on the phone as redundancy.

Marika Latsone

Age 39 / Liepaja (Latvia)

BIKE: I’ll be riding my trusty flash blue Grand Canyon. Mostly stock components, Maxxis Rekon Race 2.25″ tire on the back and an chunkier Continental Cross King 2.3″ tire on the front, Ergon grips and saddle, a Shutter Precision dynamo that will power a Sinewave Beacon headlight and charge my electronics.
BAGS: Most of my bags are from Revelate Designs, combined with a Restrap top tube bag and feedbag. Since I don’t quite like saddle bags, I got an Ortlieb Quick rack to carry a drybag with my sleep kit and some extra snacks.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Alpkit Soloist tent will be my castle in the wild. Also, I like my Therm-a-Rest Hyperion sleeping bag so much that I might oversleep my alarms.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Elemnt Roam, iPhone as a backup.

Sylvain Loup

Age 37 / Domdidier (Switzerland)

BIKE: I will ride a Santa Cruz Highball, Duke wheels with Vittoria Mezcal 2.35″ tires. A Dynamo son hub front. A mix of Shimano XTR for the shifter and Shimano Deore for the brakes. A RockShox SID Ultimate SL 110mm fork. Comfort before style with the Infinity E3 saddle.
BAGS: A classic mix. The Pannier Rack and the Rack Top Bag of Tailfin, The Long Top Tube Bag of Tailfin too. The Full Frame Bag of Restrap, and The Race Bar Bag Aero of Restrap too, and two Food Pouchs from Apidura.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: An Exped 3R air mat and an Outdoor Research Helium Bivvy. Uswe Outlander 4 Hydratation Pack and a Swiss knife.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar and a Garmin Edge 1030 plus as a backup.

Ciaran Lundy

Age 30 / Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk (England)

BIKE: I’ll be racing the Silk Road Mountain Race on a Cotic Solaris, equipped with a SON dynamo, Edelux light, and VeloCharger.
BAGS: Luggage includes a 20L Alpkit Deluge handlebar bag, Alpkit Deluge saddle bag, Ortlieb rolltop frame pack, Rhinowalk top tube bag, and two Topeak Versacages for lugging extra food and water on the remote sections.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I’ll be sleeping in a Terra Nova Laser Compact 1 with a Therm-a-Rest XTherm, and Sea to Summit Spark -9 sleeping bag. I’ll also be bringing a phone charged with certified bangers from the Proclaimers, and mixes from James and Victor.
GPS DEVICE: Navigation is via a Coros Dura.

Cat Magill

Age 45 / Edinburgh (Scotland)

BIKE: Titus El Viajero with some upgrades, hand-built wheels from my LBS (blingy bronze Hope Pro 5 hubs, DT Swiss XM 481 rims), Fox 34 SC Factory fork, Profile Designs aerobars, Specialized Power Comp with Mimic saddle, Continental Race King/Dubnital tyres, and ugly blue Burgtec pedals emergency purchased when my lovely yellow ones disintegrated in front of a bike shop in the Peak District.
BAGS: A combination of my own and borrowed Ortlieb, Tailfin, and Restrap bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: 7Mesh Skypilot jacket, Horizon jersey, and Slab shorts for riding, Terra Nova Laser Competition tent, Rab Neutrino 400 sleeping bag with silk liner, and the ever-crunchy Therm-a-Rest Neo Air Xlite for sleeping.
GPS DEVICE: After my Wahoo Bolt v2 charging port melted and burned a hole in my sleeping bag earlier this summer, I’ve switched to the Coros Dura.

Dmitriy Makarov

Age 34 / Stepnogorsk (Kazakhstan)

BIKE: Canyon Exceed CFR LTD. For the 2024 SRMR I had a drop-bar installed, but on the seventh day neck problems began. This year, I returned the stock flat-bar. Let’s see how it goes. The front tire will take on its third SRMR in a row!
BAGS: Old Apidura bags. All good except for the hardware, regular maintenance and lubrication are required. Otherwise, everything will jam at the most inopportune moment. However, they are lightweight, and have good waterproofing and damage resistance. This year, I ditched the frame and handlebar bags for a better grip when hiking and better aerodynamics. This will be the fifth time at SRMR for these six-year-old bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Manual parking brake. Saves me from having to worry about my bike moving away on its own while I’m eating ice cream at the store. If my frame breaks in half, I have a Tailfin strap.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin inReach Mini 2.

Albrecht Mariz

Age 37 / Berlin (Germany)

BIKE: I will be riding the Silk Road Mountain Race 2025 on a carbon hardtail with 100mm front suspension, no dropper post, and no dynamo. I’m running a 12-speed 11-51 × 30T mechanical drivetrain and two fresh 29 × 2.35″ XC tires.
BAGS: Many, many bags, so I can carry plenty of food, water, and extra warm/rain gear. I’m using bags from all price ranges, plus a semi-DIY harness that can be paired with my aerobars.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Lights that turn night into day. A very comfortable and warm sleeping setup, including a tent (a race first for me), a sleeping bag rated to -2°C (comfort), and a sleeping mat with an R-value of 4.5. Also race firsts: a spare pair of bibs to keep the sores away, a stove, astronaut food, and a water filter to survive the wilderness. And, of course, an analog camera to capture the memories of a lifetime.
GPS DEVICE: A GPS device with remote control, plus my phone as a backup if things get really wild.

Angus McFadyen

Age 29 / Falkirk (Scotland)

BIKE: I’m riding the 2025 Silk Road Mountain Race on my Scott Scale Gravel. For this event I have removed the ridged fork and fitted a Fox Factory 34 set to 110mm travel, 2.35″ Vitoria mezcal up front and Terrano XC race at the rear. XTR brakes, SRAM T-type drivetrain with a 32T chainring. SP dynamo laced into DT Swiss EX471 rim.
BAGS: I’m running a Tailfin Aeropack with or without the 5l Tailfin mini panniers (not decided yet). Other bags include a custom Restrap race frame bag, Restrap race top tube bag, and two Straight Cut feed bags for all the biscuits.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My Factor 50+ sunscreen (I’m Scottish) and my Restrap frame bag.
GPS DEVICE: I have a Garmin Edge Explore which I’ll use but I also have a backup Garmin with the route loaded borrowed from a mate (Thanks Craig).

Peter McKay

Age 52 / Canberra, ACT (Australia)

BIKE: After a race last year I vowed never to race my Jones bike again (they’re still a good bike!) so hello 2025 Canyon Exceed CF7. Changes from stock include a Redshift Endurance seat post (amazing and smoother than the Long Travel Thud Buster I’ve been using), SQ Labs 16º sweep bars, 30T chainring for the climbs. I’ll just have to spin on the flats. Velogical rim dynamo (sounds like a cheap e-bike but pumps out some amps, and you can disconnect it). Had to keep it patriotic with a kLite.
BAGS: Bags are just about all Tailfin, some old and some new. I’ve opted for more bags packed light than less bags packed tight. Access and compartmentalisation can cut the faff factor and that’s the same as adding speed. No backpack, everything on the bike. Front roll is such a delight to fit or remove. Crank Tank takes up a lot of bag space, but it’s a good location for water. I’ve opted for the 10L Tailfin pannier and packing the main Aero Bag lighter. The panniers are so accessible and a moment to fit or remove.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Probably that Redshift post to be honest. I’ll be spending most of my time sitting on it and they are just so smooth and so much more effective in absorbing road bumps than suspension forks or rear suspension. Durston X-Mid Pro was an unnecessary luxury but another time saver with super quick setup. Waratah -2ºC comfort quilt is really well designed.
GPS DEVICE: I prefer to use a phone (Pixel 6 Pro), set so that the screen is off until you come to a turn. RWGPS and Komoot can both do that. Also using an app I’ve been working on for predicting arrival times at towns and likelihood of finding food and accom open. Wahoo Bolt v2 as backup but don’t plan on using it.

Julien Merle

Age 46 / Salindres (France)

BIKE: Cannondale Scalpel Carbon 3. Shimano Deore brakes, 32T chainring, Shimano SLX, carbon wheels with Son 28 dynamo, assembled by Labovelo, kLite charger with k-lamp er1100, FSA KFX Handlebar, Ergon GP4 grips. Tyres are Vittoria Mezcal 2.35″ front, 2.25″ back.
BAGS: Revelate Designs handlebar bag, custom framebag by Marion et Quentin, Topeak MTX BeamRack, white Restrap bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Ferino 1p tent, Valandre Mirage sleeping bag, 3/4 sleeping pad and hydration bag from Decathlon.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Elemnt Roam v2.

Thierry Michel

Age 51 / Liege (Belgium)

BIKE: I’m riding a Revel Ranger, a full-suspension bike that offers comfort and control for long, rough mountain days. It’s forgiving when fatigue hits, but still confident on technical terrain. Setup includes Maxxis Ikon/Rekon Race 2.25” tires, SRAM AXS (30Tx10–52T), a SON dynamo hub, and a cockpit with SQLab bar, innerbarends, and Deda aerobars.
BAGS: Mainly Tailfin, with a Revelate Designs saddle bag. I also carry a foldable backpack for remote sections without resupply.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: kLite dynamo lighting paired with a Stoots headlamp for night use and a Nitecore powerbank. Sleep kit is all Therm-a-Rest (bag, pad, pillow), shared Samaya tent (riding as a pair).
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 840 Solar, it’s reliable, with solar to stretch runtime.

James Milne

Age 52 / Aberdeen (Scotland)

BIKE: Alan and I haven’t talked since he let me down after CP2 on Atlas. ‘Alan’ is a mass produced cheap and cheerful Boardman MHT8.9 in size XL. Decathlon light, Geoff handlebar plus Tribars (to help with the numb hands), XT gears (10-50T) and brake levers, SLX brakes, SRAM SX crankset (28T). Hunt wheels—I can’t afford to replace them and I have zero confidence in them after Atlas, but I’ve taken a spare freehub and tools to replace. Hoping if I take it, I’ll not need it. Mezcal tyres. Fantastic Redshift Seatpost.
BAGS: Jack the Rack and drybag (tent, sleeping kit and dehydrated food), Restrap top tube bag (electronics), Decathlon frame bag (tools and first aid), Tailfin (clothes, dehydrated food & stove), Podsacs (cold and wet weather kit) and racks jubilee/strapped to the Tailfin
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Mintsauce “Its Doable” sticker – it’s a state of mind. I constantly need reminding that I am capable, and I will finish.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura due to its proven submersible qualities on HT550.

Kim (Max) Minoock

Age 46 / Seoul (South Korea)

BIKE: Giant XTC Advanced 29 1 with 29x 2.25″ tires.
BAGS: This is my first time bikepacking and racing, so I don’t have much to say about my gear. One thing I know is that this is a great way to explore our planet. I attached patches of my mom’s name on frame bag because I want to show her beautiful Kyrgyzstan.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Black Diamond First light 2p will be my shelter for this harsh race.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar, as I’m expecting Kyrgyzstan’s great sunshine to charge my its battery everyday.

Clemens Modlin

Age 54 / Vienna (Austria)

BIKE: Sondern Broken Road, Steel (2024), SRAM GX-Eagle, Drivetrain: 30T chainring, 52-10T cassette, DT-Swiss EX-511 rims, SON Classic hub in the front, DT Swiss 350 rear, Continental Dubnital 29 x 2.4″ tires.
BAGS: Bags from Ortlieb.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Brooks leather saddle and Forumslader V6.0 for power, charged by a Son hub.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 540 Solar.

Ed Moon

Age 61 / Benicia, California (USA)

BIKE: For the 2025 edition of the Silk Road Mountain Race I will be riding a Why Cycles El Jefe hardtail. The bike has a SID Ultimate fork, Firefly seatpost, Ti Cycles stem, Roost bar, Fift-Fifty bar ends and Shimano XT pedals. The drivetrain and braking are a mix of SRAM X01 and XX1 components. Gearing is 10-52T with a 30T chainring. For electronics, I’m running a SON dynamo with a Sinewave Beacon. The Beacon and GPS are mounted on a dRjOn Mission Control Deck.
BAGS: Tailfin AeroPack, Revelate Pronghorn harness with Egress Pocket, Rouge Panda custom frame bag and Gila dry bag, Rhinowalk top tube bag and Moosetreks stembag. My tent is inside a homemade drybag strapped to the Tailfin rack using Problem Solvers Bow Ties. I’m also taking a 18L Gregory hydration pack.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: For sleeping, I have a Tarptent Aeon Li, an Enlightened Equipment quilt, a Nemo Tensor sleeping pad and a Gossamer Gear Thinlight foam pad. I tend to sleep cold so I also have a Stellar -12C down puffy.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin 1050 with a Garmin 1040 Solar and my phone as backups.

Quentin Moreau

Age 45 / Brussels (Belgium)

BIKE: The old faithful ​Orbea Alma M20 aka ‘The Green Giant’ with a Fox 32 StepCast fork, Cane Creek eeSilk suspension seat post, RedShift aerobars, and inner bar ends for comfort. Classic Shimano XT brakes and drivetrain with 30T chainring and a 10-51T cassette. DT Swiss X1700 wheels shod with Vittoria Mezcal 29 x 2.35″ tires.
BAGS: Except a fantastic small Restrap aerobar pack for the whole sleep system, all from Tailfin this time: AeroPack and dry bags front and rear, wedge frame bag, large top tube bag. Extra volume to fit easily necessary food supplies for the remotest stretches.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: A modular sleep system from British brand PHD made of a 0°C sleeping bag, a mandatory warm down jacket, together with down pants and booties: weight efficient with full kit below 1,000g, comfy down to -15°C, with very warm layers to be just toasty while tired or in challenging weather. Light, compact yet roomy Six Moon Design Lunar Solo tent to stay safe and/or cozy. 3D printed saddle from Fizik for the added comfort. 40,000mAh of power banks (Nitecore) for electricity needs with a super-fast wall charger to top up at any stop. Superb and long lasting Nitecore Nu45 headlamp on the helmet (removable for day-time comfort). Castelli jacket in Polartec Alpha for its supreme versatility. New Polartec Delta fabric jersey for warm weather comfort. Everything else is merino to keep the smells at bay. Top and bottom hard shells to face unfriendly skies.
GPS DEVICE: Two Wahoo Elemnt Bolts for navigation.

Ian Morrison

Age 43 / Sydney (Australia)

BIKE: Flanders Berg XL, XX1 cranks and 10-52T cassette paired with a 32T Absolute Black oval chainring. Level Ultimate brakes. Wheels are Light Bicycle rims with DT 240 hubs and Maxxis Aspen ST 29 x 2.25″ with Vittoria Air-liners. Squishy front Fox 34 Kashima 130mm. SQlab FL-X 16° sweep bars and inner bar-ends, Revgrips Pro grips, Deda Parabolica aero-bars. Cane Creek eeSilk+ suspension seat post with SQlab saddle.
BAGS: Apidura top tube and frame bag, Tailfin 3L downtube pack, and a Tailfin Aeropack Cargo out back.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Outdoor Research Helium Bivy. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite pad. Quoc Gran Tourer’s on my feet.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1030.

William Munday

Age 24 / Oust, Ariege (France)

BIKE: For the 2025 SRMR, I’ll be riding a 2017 Canyon Grand Canyon Al 7.0. It has an 11×2 Shimano SLX drivetrain that came stock with the bike and brakes are XT that I had fitted before the race. Specially for the race, I’ve installed some TT bars to which I am attaching some waterproof bags. I’ve also fitted four Zefal Gizmos onto the seat stays and fork to attach four bottles in addition to the one on the seat tube (+ tape and zip ties so that everything stays in place). I converted my Mavic Crossride wheels to tubeless and have fitted Pirelli Scorpion XC tyres.
BAGS: On the front, I’m strapping a Lezyne handlebar bag for food as well as a large waterproof bag in which i have put my Mountain Warehouse sleeping bag and Decathlon air mattress. I’m using a Restrap top tube bag for snacks and electronics and a Pinnacle frame bag for spares, tools, and a first aid kit. On the back, I’ve got a Zefal saddle bag for all of my clothes and the little wash bag that’s coming with me.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I like my tires and the TT bars on the front.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge Explore 2.

Anatole Naimi

Age 25 / Liege (Belgium)

BIKE: Origine Théorème FS100, 1×12 Shimano XTR, aerobars, Pryhmal carbon wheels with Son dynamo, Hutchinson Skeleton and Sector tyres.
BAGS: Custom Ena.Bags frame bag, top tube bags, and saddle bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: This time I’m bringing a toothbrush and I might even use it.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura.

Manuel Nunes

Age 50 / Beja (Portugal)

BIKE: I’ll be riding the Silk Road Mountain Race 2025 on a Specialized Epic HT. The bike features a new pair of 29 x 2.25″ Specialized renegade tires on Roval Control SL wheels, 1×11 drivetrain with a 34T chainring, and a 10-46T cassette.
BAGS: I’ll use Expedition saddle bag, top tube bag and downtube pack from Apidura. On the handlebar we can find an Ortlieb bag. I’ll run two insulated 750ml bottles from Camelbak on the frame, and a 3L Camelbak.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Lafuma tent and sleeping bag, Sea To Summit UL Insulated Air Mat, and if it’s really cold, I will put the sleeping bag inside the SOL Escape Lite Bivvy.
GPS DEVICE: I will use a Garmin Edge 830 with an iPhone as a backup.

Roz (Rosalyn) Osborne

Age 44 / Cornwall (United Kingdom)

BIKE: Vitus Rapide full-suspension CRX mountain bike, size small. I am riding flat pedals. Areo bars. SRAM GX Eagle AXS T-Type 12-Speed drivetrain. I am riding a Continental Cross King, Blackchili, 29″ on the front and a Continental Race King 29″ on the rear. I am running a Klite Ultra MTB off a dynamo hub, with a backup helmet mounted Exposure Joystick.
BAGS: Ortlieb small frame bag, Restrap top tube bag, Decathlon stem bags. Overboard dry bag strapped to the handle bars and an Aeroe spider rack with an overboard dry bag at the back. Ultimate Direction hydration vest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Spark women’s ultralight down Sea to Summit sleeping bag, Outdoor Research Helium Bivy, NeoAir Xlite small sleeping mat by Therm-a-Rest, and a silk liner by LifeVenture.
GPS DEVICE: Using a Garmin Edge 1040 and an iPhone as backup.

Anton Osipov

Age 40 / Almaty (Kazakhstan)

BIKE: I’ll be racing the SRMR on a 2023 Canyon Grizl. I’ve changed pretty much everything on this bike: a pair of Maxxis Icon 2.0″ tires, 12-speed GRX derailleur that works perfectly with an 11-speed 52T cassette, 36T chainring, PRO discover 48 30° flare handlebar, 35mm Enve stem, and a Selle Italia Xbow saddle. The most important update is the FOX Factory 32 TC with 50mm travel.
BAGS: I’m using a custom frame bag by local brand Sarmatian. Handlebar and seatpost harnesses, feedbags and fuel tank bags made by Nerpagear.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Outdoor Research Alpine bivy along with Sierra Designs sleeping bag and Naturehike mat.
GPS DEVICE: I’m using Garmin 530 Edge.

Yuji Otsuka

Age 56 / Beppu, Oita (Japan)

BIKE: 2025 Trek Supercaliber, Shimano Di2 drivetrain, DT XM421, Son Hub, Maxxis Pace 29 × 2.10″ tires.
BAGS: Tailfin and Ortlieb.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Dixna Cross Bandy2 Handle.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 540.

Jongha Pak

Age 44 / Seoul (South Korea)

BIKE: JAEGER VENTURA8, 29 × 2.25” tires, RockShox SID Select 29. Shimano XT 12-speed (10-51T), 32T chainring, SON Dynamo, H28 Spoke 32H hub, Novatec Hub, DT SWISS XR 391 29″ Rims, Sinewave Cycles Beacon 2 lighting.
BAGS: ORTLIEB Frame-Pack RC6L, Apidura Expedition Stem Pack 1.3L, Ortlieb Seat-Pack QR 13L, Ortlieb Toptube-bag 1.5L, Restrap Race Aero Bar Bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Bivy, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite, JR Gear prism60 sleeping bag.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Elemnt Roam 2 for navigation.

Adam Palin

Age 26 / Bristol (United Kingdom)

BIKE: I’ll be riding my Santa Cruz Blur with DT Swiss wheels and Conti Dubnitol Trail tyres. I have a mix of Shimano parts and opted for a rigid seat post.
BAGS: All bags are from Tailfin. Including the Cargo Aeropack, 2.2L Long Top Tube, and some custom bags I’ll be testing.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: For the Silk Road I have brought my Nature Hike tent. However I have modified it so it doesn’t require the inner or ground sheet. My emergency blanket doubles as a ground sheet. And lastly my sleeping bag is from Cumulus and is rated to -8.
GPS DEVICE: For navigation and data recording I use my Garmin 1040 (non solar). This lasts around 70 hours on low power mode.

Nacho Pellejero

Age 35 / Girona (Spain)

BIKE: I’ll be trying to finish the Silk Road Mountain Race with my Chiru Highlander equipped with Continental Race King Protection 29 x 2.2″ tires, 120mm fork, and a full set of Ortlieb bags to carry all the stuff needed to get through any type of adventures along the way.
BAGS: The centerpiece of my setup is my frame bag, which carries all my food necessary for several days without resupply.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Self-made hike-a-bike harness. Katadyn Be Free filter in order to filter water from any source.
GPS DEVICE: I’m using a Coros Dura with an iPhone as a backup.

Marlin Peterson

Age 50 / Wenatchee, Washington (USA)

BIKE: I am pushing, carrying, and at times pedaling a fully rigid Carver Gnarvester with a Salsa Firestarter fork, Mezcal 2.6″ tires on Ibis Blackbird Send wheels. 2×11 Shimano XT drivetrain with a 24 x 42T lowest gear. Effectively I have a “magic button” on my left thumb when I shift it to the lower ring. Cable actuated BB7 discs brakes. I have 0% aero bars so I feel like an outlier and an outcast, I hope there are others.
BAGS: I use a sick custom LOAM frame bag with all kinds of organizational pockets inside and custom LOAM rear mini-panniers back there. I have 2 Anything Cages up front and huge water bottles on normal cages mounted to the fork.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Out of some wider Rockbros cages, random parts, and carbon fiber repair wrap I made a custom rear rack for the lil’ panniers. It sits pretty. I also am carrying one pencil-thick flexible fiberglass pole fitted with 2 modified handlebar plugs that slides into my upright handlebar when the bike is done layed down, to prop up my one-point tarp-tent. I am also carrying a stove, and a pot with a mini-frisbee for a lid…stop me and let’s throw. I have been advised on this route for one pass in particular it might be non-optional to carry one’s bike, so I will carry my trusty shoulder straps to carry my bike again, carrying me out of trouble.
GPS DEVICE: I will use my tired iPhone to navigate, but might be borrowing a Coros Dura by the time the race starts.

Vlad Podofedov

Age 30 / Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)

BIKE: A custom titanium frame, released under the Ilbirs brand (meaning ‘snow leopard’ in Kyrgyz). Geometry-wise, it’s a hybrid between MTB and gravel. Naturally, it features a 100mm travel suspension fork. Reliable aluminum Hunt Beyond wheels with Son dynamo hubs. Maxxis Rekon Race tires with MaxWax tubeless stuff (sealant, valves, tape). SRAM GX AXS electronic shifting and Formula Cura 4 brakes. And most importantly, not a trace of carbon (even where you might expect it)!
BAGS: I use bags from Sarmatian, a small brand now based in Almaty, Kazakhstan. A two-compartment frame bag with the main section secured by fastex buckles. Three massive feed bags on the handlebar, one of which is for a hydration. And a fantastic saddle bag, spacious enough that you don’t have to worry about how tightly packed your gear is. Naturally, everything is waterproof, durable, and fairly lightweight.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: For something unusual this year, I’ll be using back carry straps for transporting my bike, also from Sarmatian. We’re expecting long hiking sections, so we’ll see how this works on the trail.
GPS DEVICE: I’m going to try and outsmart capitalism by racing with just my Garmin Fenix 7 watch. After all, why would I need two devices doing the same thing on my wrist and handlebars all at once (let’s not forget the phone in my pocket)?

Joao Pombinho

Age 42 / Lisboa (Portugal)

BIKE: Canyon Lux CF 9.9 SL (2017), FOX 32, DPS, XTR M9000 2×11 (38/28T), SunRace 11–46T, DT Swiss XMC1501 wheels, Vittoria Barzo 29 x 2.35″ up front and a Mezcal 2.35″ rear.
BAGS: Ortlieb Handlebar Pack for camping and sleep, Tailfin Fork Pack 5L for rain gear, Tailfin Top Tube for easy access, downtube bag for spares and tools, and Aeropack for rider kit and food.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Surly Corner bar’s multiple hand positions are a must, Hubba Hubba 2P Bikepacking tent for comfort and safety, Pearl Izumi Alp-X Summit shoes for on and off the bike, Hydrapack Seeker 3L water filtration kit.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin 1040 Solar with offline phone and printed maps as backups.

Tom Quirk

Age 49 / Zurich (Switzerland)

BIKE: YT Izzo Uncaged 7 named Inconspicuous. Everything is stock except the Kyote bars, mandatory Mezcals, and rigid seatpost.
BAGS: About 20L of storage on the bike plus an old Nathan fastpack. 4L Ortlieb framebag shoehorned into 3L of triangle. “Tailfin aerobar pack”, consisting of a drybag lashed to the bars with a Tailfin strap.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Insulated slippers, Uniqlo Airism boxers, lip balm, and a harness/trail shoe combo because the hiking sections are the best part of the trip.
GPS DEVICE: A Garmin 530, Fenix 7X, and two phones.

Tony Ramenda

Age 40 / Leipzig (Germany)

BIKE: I am riding a Orbea Alma from 2020. For the SRMR I’m running Vittoria Mezcals 29 x 2.35″, a custom wheel with Son Dynamo, and a Supernova M99 Dy light system.
BAGS: The frame bag is made by Witslingers from Leipzig, and the top frame bag and the the rear bag are from Talfin, with Vaude in the front.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Elemnt x2.

Daniel Richards

Age 28 / Auburn, California (USA)

BIKE: I will be riding my ol’ faithful Swiss Army knife of a bike, the Surly Krampus in her bomb proof/singlespeed/trail configuration. With 26-14T cogs, SON dynamo and 2.4″ tires. I’ve eliminated all cables possible with a crown lockout and under saddle lever dropper.
BAGS: My frame bag is from Baby Legs, white so my chocolate melts slower and see through because I can never remember where I put anything. Revelate Designs Terrapin in the back and Salsa roll up front.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I’ve been improving as a metal worker this year and brazed a rear rack that works like a big seat bag but comparable with the dropper. Also stabilizers for my front roll.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin inReach.

Tori Riemersma

Age 30 / Portland, Oregon (USA)

BIKE: Specialized Epic Hardtail, GX Eagle 32T/10-51T, Light Bicycle wheels. Vittoria Barzo/Mezcal tire combo for grip. The Cane Creek eeSilk+ seatpost and Fox stepcast fork will hopefully mellow out the washboard and chunk.
BAGS: Oveja Negra wedgie frame bag for tools, electronics, med kit and miscellaneous, Tailfin Aeropack for the tent and layers, Musguard front harness with a Sea to Summit drybag for the sleeping bag and pad, and Nuclear Sunrise bar bag for the Fanta and snax.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo tent, Big Agnes Daisy Mae 15F bag and Nemo Tensor sleeping pad will keep me super comfortable and warm on those cold mountain passes. Going stoveless, but bringing a bunch of cold-soakable meals in a drybag.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 840 Solar.

Peter Rosewall

Age 37 / Dubai (United Arab Emirates)

BIKE: I’ll be riding the SRMR on my Canyon Lux Trail CF9. The bike features Hunt wheels shod with Racing Ray and Racing Ralph tyres and a SON dynamo hub up front. To light my way I have fitted kLite front and rear. Other than that its pretty standard.
BAGS: I have a new Tailfin rack this year with a Zefal Z Adventure F10 handle bar bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Sea to Summit Spark SP-III sleeping bag. Specialized Rime 2.0 MTB shoes.
GPS DEVICE: For navigation I’ll be using my Garmin Edge 1040 Solar.

Alden Roth

Age 31 / Charles Town, West Virginia (USA)

BIKE: 2022 Specialized Fuze 27.5” Hardtail.
BAGS: The bulk of my gear is in an Aeroe dry bag on my Aeroe Rear Spider Rack. I have an Apidura frame bag, which has most of my tools and spare parts. On the downtube is a Bedrock Bags Nalgene holder, which I’ll store extra water and coke in. On my top tube, I have a two-pack Bevvy Carrier from Fish-ski Designs and a Tailfin 3L top tube bag. On my aerobars, I have the Revelate Designs Pitchfork Aerobar system they created for Lael’s ride around the world. I have two Apidura fork bags, mounted to either side of my fork. I have a Shrew saddle bag from Revelate Designs. I’ll wear a Solomon 4 Active Skin hydration vest while riding.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I have a rim-mounted dynamo to generate electricity while riding. Very exciting about my Zpacks Quilt with a sown footbox and the e*thirteen 9-52T 12-speed cassette. I’m running Continental Dubnital tires.
GPS DEVICE: I’m using a Coros Dura, with my phone and Coros Vertix 2S as backup navigation devices.

Dmitry Ruchkin

Age 36 / Moscow (Russia)

BIKE: 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, Race Face ARC 30 rims, Vittoria Mezcal 29 x 2.25″ tires. Brooks C15 Carved saddle. FARR Aero MTB handlebar + arm rests, Ergon GS3 grips, Togs.
BAGS: Custom framebag, feedbags and jerrycan, all by Sarmatian. Long top tube bag by Nerpa Gear. Restrap saddle bag. Rogue Panda Canelo V2 harness with MLD Ultra X Double End dry bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Tarptent Moment DW tent, Exped AirMat UL LW mat, Sivera Vezha sleeping bag. Arcteryx Cerium LT down hoody, Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer pants, Sivera Sneg Polartec socks. Two 36″ Titan Straps are used both as straps and a hike-a-bike harness.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura with OsmAnd+ app as a backup.

Johannes Santen

Age 35 / Oakland, California (USA)

BIKE: I’m riding my Starling Murmur steel full suspension bike in “Mini Murmur” mode with a 130mm Fox 34 in the front and 120mm travel in the rear, provided by a Cane Creek Air IL shock. This should provide a bit of comfort over the next 2,000km! Otherwise, robust Hope wheels and cranks with Enduro solid lube or MaxHit bearings where it matters. Shout out to my buddy David for the recommendations and personal bearing delivery! Also special shoutout to my friend Doug (Runcible Wheel Works) for late-night spoke replacements and wheel truing mere days before leaving for Kyrgyzstan! Drivetrain is SRAM X01/XX1 mechanical and Magura 4-piston brakes will keep me from riding off a cliff.
BAGS: Rockgeist custom frame and top tube bags as well as front harness with a 16L dry bag (sleep kit, clothes) and dual feed bags. Lots of room for snacks! On the back I have a tailing aero pack for some more clothes, freeze dried meals, and a small alcohol stove. A warm meal on a cold night or hot drink in the morning will surely keep me going!
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I’m excited to try out my new Dissent 133 glove layering system with options for cold and wet situations of varying degrees. I don’t think I’ve ever had any waterproof gloves that worked really well, so I’m looking forward to these. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to test them on a ride because it hasn’t rained in California in months!
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura for its insane battery life!

Sami Sauri

Age 33 / Chamonix (France)

BIKE: Rose bikes PDQ carbon hardtail, Zipp 1ZERO HITOP SW wheels, SRAM XX SL Eagle Transmission 10-52T with 32T chainring, SRAM Level Ultimate Stealth brakes, RockShox Reverb AXS dropper, RockShox SID Ultimate 3P 120mm fork, Selle San Marco Shortfit 2.0 Supercomfort saddle, Supernova B54 pro with battery, Schwalbe Racing Ralph and Racing Ray 29 x 2.35”.
BAGS: Tailfin aero pack cargo, Tailfin long top tube bag, Tailfin R&D frame bag, Tailfin R&D front camera bag, Tailfin Down tube 3L.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My camera bag, a dream come true. Ferrino sleeping system.
GPS DEVICE: Hammerhead.

Alessio Saviane

Age 49 / Padova (Italy)

BIKE: I’ll be riding a Cube C:62 Elite Pro, tricked out with a mechanical Shimano XT 1×12 setup, sporting a 30T chainring and a 10-51T cassette—basically, a mountain goat in bike form. Up front, I’ve got a Son dynamo hub that’ll power a kLite and keep my gadgets alive, including a trusty 5,000 mAh power bank. My cockpit will be rocking a pair of Vap Butterfly bar extensions, and rolling duties are handled by 29″ wheels wrapped in Schwalbe Nobby Nics, because grip is good, and sliding off a trail is bad.
BAGS: Luggage? Oh, I’m dialed. I’ve got a custom-made full frame bag by Kicking Donkey, a waterproof Zefal handlebar bag, an Acid rear dry bag mounted on its matching rack, and a tiny Ortlieb bag perched on the top tube like a loyal pet.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My sleep setup is a cozy trio: a Therm-a-Rest Ultra Light mat, a Ferrino bivy, and a Therm-a-Rest Questar sleeping bag rated to 0°C, because comfort is key when you’re sleeping in the middle of nowhere. For hydration, I’ll be rocking two handlebar-mounted bottles and a 3L HydraPak bladder with a filter cap.
GPS DEVICE: Navigation will be handled by my trusty Garmin Edge 1030 Plus.

Kate Scarlett

Age 42 / Victoria (Australia)

BIKE: I’m riding a Merida Big Nine XT hardtail XC mountain bike. I’ve swapped out the handlebars for Salsa Cycle Bend 23s with Ergon grips, and added a set of TT bars customized with a bit of plastic pipe my dad found in the shed.
BAGS: My frame bag and handlebar bag are Revelate Designs, and I have an Apidura top tube bag and Topeak saddle bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: A Cyclewerks bottle cage double adaptor made just across the ditch in Wellington, NZ, is a nifty way to keep my drink bottles in place. And my Black Sheep cargo knicks, comfortable and practical.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 530, with a Garmin Forerunner 245 Music as backup for both navigation and music.

Claus-Henning Schulke

Age 59 / Berlin (Germany)

BIKE: Cannondale Scalpel with DT Swiss F232 front suspension, SRAM Transmission 38T, Rear DT Swiss 1200 carbon, Vittoria Mezcal 2.1″ tires, Front DT Swiss XM 401 wheel with SON dynamo, Schwalbe Thunder Burt super ground 2.2″ rear tire, Dropbox with Aero-extenstions and Blips. BUMM IQ Frontlight and Cane Creek 35mm carbon seatpost.
BAGS: Revelate Designs seatbag and framebag, Restrap top tube Bags, Cyclite aerobarbag, Decathlon food pouch, and The North Face hydration vest with 2L CamelBak + filter.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: SON bivi, Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad, Sea to Summit Spark IV bag. GoreTex jacket, trousers, and gloves. Castelli Alpha.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura with a Garmin Epix 2 watch as backup.

Hannes Schweiter

Age 57 / Tann, Zurich (Switzerland)

BIKE: I’ll be riding the SRMR on a 2024 Orbea Oiz M-Pro with a Shimano XT drivetrain and a 30T chainring, Vittoria Mezcal 29 x 2.35″ tires, Profile Designs Aerobar, SQLabs Innerbarends and Ergon bar ends.
BAGS: Custom-made Capricorn framebag, Tailfin AeroPack Cargo, two Mini Panniers 5L, Top Tube Bag Flip 1.5L, Downtube Pack 3L, two Apidura Food Pouches, and an Ortlieb Handlebar Pack 9L.

GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Quilt from Katabatic Gear to keep me warm, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite, and Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Bikepack.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar, Garmin Instinct Solar, and iPhone.

Brittany Shalagan

Age 34 / Cumberland, British Columbia (Canada)

BIKE: Naked Bicycles Titanium Mountain Adventure 29er hardtail, hand built by Sam Whittingham in a unicorn stable located on a far-off mystical island on the West Coast of British Columbia. Build kit includes a Fox Factory SL 34 130mm Fork, Shimano XT brakes and drivetrain, One Up carbon bars, We Are One Triad carbon wheelset, Industry 9 hydra hubs, 157 superboost rear spacing with snapring dropouts. Maxxis Rekon Race 2.4″ tires with Tannus inserts help keep the rubber side down for maximum mixed-terrain performance and fun. Brushed titanium frame finish for easy touch-ups after the race.
BAGS: Ortlieb 15L handlebar roll bag, Ortlieb 17L rear seat bag, Salsa 1/2 frame pack, Old Man Mountain Axle Pack racks with Salsa cages on the fork.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Scott Pack Trail running vest for quick access to fuel bites through the day and easy stowing away of layers while on the go. UV steriPEN for reliable clean water treatment, Six Moons Deschutes plus tent, and an Exped Ultra R5 sleeping mat for cold nights.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Bolt.

Kim in Sik

Age 40 / Cheon-An (South Korea)

BIKE: I will ride the Silk Road Mountain Race on a Focus Atlas 8.8 with 700 x 50mm tires.
BAGS: I’m using a handlebar bag, two fork bags, a seat pack, and two seatstay bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Shimano GRX 810, 2×11 with a 11-42T cassette.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Roam 2.

George Stefanov

Age 38 / Moscow (Russia)

BIKE: Custom frame made by Fazan Cycles, Columbus zona tubes, rigid carbon fork from Curve Cycles, drivetrain includes a Rohloff speedhub with belt, Surly Knard 29 x 3″ tires, Redshift stem and handlebar, Cane Creek eeSilk+ seatpost, and a Brooks Cambium saddle.
BAGS: DIY custom bags mostly from challenge ULTRA 200/400, frame bag from Venom UHMWPE TPU-coated fabric. Saddle rack from 7road bags with some customization.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: The Tarptent Double Rainbow DW Ultra is the best tent I’ve used.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura.

Dennis Stegemann

Age 37 / Berlin (Germany)

BIKE: I’m riding a custom titanium Kocmo Tiger made in Berlin, it’s something between a gravel and MTB, which for me is the perfect bike for adventures. SRAM Transmission 1×12 drivetrain with 30T chainring and a 10-52T cassette. Schwalbe Racing Ray and Ralph 29 x 2.35″. Son Dynamo and Ladelux and 480mm Dropbar.
BAGS: Custom Bags from Ukraine (7rBags) Framebag, Top Tube bag, and two 2L Snackpacks. I can’t use a front roll because of my light system. Apidura saddle bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Nordisk Lofoten Tent, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Uberlite and Sleeping Bag Rab Mystic 600 rated to -5°C (comfort).
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar.

Sergey Stepanov

Age 28 / Yerevan (Armenia)

BIKE: Specialized Epic Evo 2025. I’m running a mechanical SRAM GX 1×12 drivetrain for simplicity and reliability, paired with Neutrino cranks, a 30T chainring, and a 10–52T cassette to stay comfortable on long climbs. Braking is handled by 4-piston SRAM Code calipers with 180mm rotors—more than enough for any descent. The wheelset features DUKE carbon rims, a SON28 dynamo hub up front, and a DT350 hub in the rear. Tires are Vittoria Mezcal 29 x 2.25”, offering a fast yet grippy profile suited for mixed terrain. Up front, I’ve swapped the standard flat bar for a Jones H-Bar with the Gnarwal extension—a combination that offers multiple hand positions, built-in aero support, and better comfort to keep numbness at bay on long days and flat sections.
BAGS: For storage, I’ve gone with a mix of Tailfin’s Aeropack, a Fork Pack, and their Top Tube Bag. Up front, a Topeak handlebar bag is paired with feedbags for easy access to snacks and ride essentials. I’m carrying two 0.75L bottles in the frame and a 0.55L insulated bottle on the fork, plus three extra empty mounts to add up to 4L more when needed.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Sleep system: I’m packing the OR Helium bivy, Sea To Summit Air Mat, and Flame II sleeping bag—a lightweight setup that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. For cold mountain nights, I’ll also bring down pants and a down jacket as emergency layers. Power & lighting: The Sinewave Beacon 2 dynamo light does double duty—offering a powerful beam while charging devices on the move. It’s a key piece of the setup for staying powered through remote stretches.
GPS DEVICE: Primary navigation is handled by the Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt v2, backed up by an iPhone and a Garmin watch.

Role Strauss

Age 42 / Tirol (Austria)

BIKE: For SRMR 2025, I’ll be riding a handmade steel frame by Dinolfo Cycles. The transparent coating preserves every mark and memory from past rides, and it will soon carry the story of Kyrgyzstan as well. Power and lighting come from a SON dynamo paired with a kLite system. In contrast to the classic steel frame, the wheels and handlebar from Beast Components are crafted from carbon. The drivetrain is a golden E*thirteen crankset and cassette, with an electronic shifter guiding the chain onto my “pizza cutter” chainring.
BAGS: A Tailfin rack carries all my clothing, while custom-made, waterproof frame and handlebar bags from Reisefix (around 400g) store the rest of my essentials.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My Big Agnes tent will be my shelter, a UV water filter will keep me healthy, and lightweight hiking boots will make pushing the bike more comfortable.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo ELEMNT as my primary GPS, with an iPhone as backup.

Andrei Tereskin

Age 36 / London (United Kingdom)

BIKE: Sonder Broken Road, same bike I’ve used for the SRMR the last two years. Now upgraded with SRAM T-Type Transmission and Ti handlebars.
BAGS: Revelate Designs Pitchfork, Tailfin top tube bag, frame bag and baguette bags custom-made by Sarmatian, Tailfin Aeropack.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Self-made harness system with backpack straps and hooks/loops from Restrap harness for 30km hike. Tailfin Aeropack extension bridge made at Lenin Peak basecamp during acclimatization. Leap Components and Project76 3d-printed mounts for a clean cockpit setup and shifting blips.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura and Garmin Fenix 7 as a backup.

Sky Tettero-Croby

Age 41 / Guelph, Ontario (Canada)

BIKE: I’ll be racing the Silk Road Mountain Race on a Ti Salsa Fargo hardtail with a Fox Stepcast 34 suspension fork. The tires are 29 x 2.35″ Maxxis Rekon Race. The entire drivetrain is SRAM X01, with 1×12 gearing, 10-50T cassette, 34T cog and two AXS derailleurs (one for backup). The kLite front and back lights are powered by a SON dynamo, which will also be charging my Nitecore Summit 10,000 powerbank that stays warm in sub-zero temperatures. Titanium handlebars and seatpost should help dampen the many bumps on the route.
BAGS: The Salsa EXP Anything Cradle will keep my handlebar bag off of the brake cables. A custom frame bag by Thief allows me to keep two 1L water bottles in the frame and a 20L Sea to Summit dry sack sits on top of the Old Man Mountain Elkhorn rear rack. The rear anything cage bag and top tube bag are by Restrap.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: To stay out of the storms on the mountain passes I have the Zpacks Plex Solo Tent with the Nemo Tensor sleeping pad and the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 sleeping bag to round out my sleep system. I’ll also be bringing the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 stove and Vargo Titanium BOT pot to heat up my gluten-free ramen…because on what other ultra can you justify bringing a tent and a stove?
GPS DEVICE: My main navigation device will be the Garmin 840 with the bombproof eTrex 32x as backup.

Florian Thiessen

Age 43 / Berlin (Germany)

BIKE: 2019 Salsa Cutthroat, modded SRAM Force 1×11 drivetrain with Garbaruk cage. 30T cassette and a 11-50T cassette. Hope and SON hubs laced to Sun Ringle Düroc 40s. Wolfpack Race tires, 29 x 2.4″ front, 2.25″ rear.
BAGS: The usual Revelate Designs and Apidura affair.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Tarptent Protrail and Cumulus sleeping bag for cozy nights. Sinewave Beacon 2 to keep electronics topped up.
GPS DEVICE: Trusty old Garmin Edge 830.

Maarten Vanhaverbeke

Age 40 / Brakel, Flemish Ardennes (Belgium)

BIKE: Of course the same bike I finished Tour Divide on about 7 weeks ago, and SRMR last year. Mason ISO frameset, 46cm Ritchey Beacon drop bars, SWS Wheels hand-built wheelset, René Herse Fleecer Ridge tires, Shimano XTR-GRX 1×12 Di2 shifting, Wolf Tooth 32T chainring, RockShox SID SL fork. It’s too easy to get lost in the details as a bicycle mechanic.
BAGS: A colourful new framebag, custom made by Wit Slingers Bagworks. Revelate Designs feedbags, seatbag, and front drybag. Miss Grape handlebar cradle. Tailfin top and down tube bag. Camelbak hydration vest with a 2L Hydrapak bladder and inline filter, second 1.5L bladder in the framebag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Nordisk Lofoten tent, Cumulus X-Lite 400 sleeping bag, Therm-a-Rest mattress, KLite lights and charger, Lucifer helmet light.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar. Edge 530 and iPhone with OsmAnd as backup.

Teddie Vidolova

Age 35 / Oakland, California (USA)

BIKE: I’ll be riding an iteration of my beloved Stanton Sherpa Ti, first featured in the Bikes of Trans Balkan 2023. I replaced the dropper for a OneUp V3 and mounted aero bars (Profile Designs Supersonic Ergo+ 50 SLC) for the first time. I got a new Berd front wheel because the play of the bearings was starting to be really noticeable. My SON Dynamo people, how much play is too much? My search for the perfect saddle continued this year and I’ll attempt to get through SRMR on an ERON SM Sport Gel. I’ll be running Continental Dubnital Race Rapid tires at the recommendation of my coach Niel. Let’s see: will the Race casing be a mistake? Will the new Silca sealant pull through?
BAGS: I got a Mica Rat Tail rack this year and an awesome South City Stitchworks rack harness for it. Also a SCSW full top tube bag: thanks Zach! Unlike the photo, you may find me with Tailfin cage packs on the rack stays in a desperate effort to cram more food on my bike.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Thank you to my family for sponsoring quite a few new pieces of gear for the race: a 20F/-6C Regular/Wide Enlightened Equipment Enigma Quilt with draft collar, a Soto Amicus Stove paired with a bunch of dehydrated meals, and a Sawyer Water Filter with Cnoc 2L bladder. Other items that I got for the race are a Six Moons Designs Deschutes Tarp, Nemo Tensor All-Season Pad (lots of warmth for Kyrgyzstan), and a Nathan Pinnacle Pro 12L Hydration Race Vest. And how could I forget, you’ll recognize me on the trail because of my DaBrim! I’ll hopefully stay cool and protect my lips that are still recovering from dermatitis.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Roam. I’m enjoying the offline capabilities of Organic Maps and OsmAnd although I really wish that MapOut is available for Android.

Ethan Washam

Age 32 / USA

BIKE: Chromag Surface Voyager. Running a RockShox Pike, Bike Yolk Revive dropper, Velocity Blunt 35 rims, Son Dynamo hub, and Tumbleweed Persuader bars. 32x20T ratio.
BAGS: Dispersed framebag, Rockgeist Bar Jam, a variety of other bags, and a slightly bent Tumbleweed T-Rack.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: A purple 3D printed pump holder by the illustrious Brian Van Nostrand.
GPS DEVICE: Wahoo Roam.

Jules Wearne

Age 39 / Melbourne, Victoria (Australia)

BIKE: My trusty old Ritchey P-650B (2017) running on some American Classic Wide Lightnings wrapped in Vittoria Mezcals (2.15″ rear and 2.25″ front). The cockpit is pretty much new, with some SQLab 30x 12° Riser bars and a Profile Design NeoSonic Ergo 52A aerobars. Drivetrain is a mix of 11-speed XT and Deore.
BAGS: Running Restrap handlebar and Saddle harnesses, but with upgraded dry bags in each (Sea to Summit and Revelate Designs). Framebag, top tube, and feed-bags are all Revelate and I have zero complaints. The fork-bags are Sea to Summit dry bags strapped to trusty old Blackburn cages which are hose-clamped on. This bike was certainly not built with bikepacking attachments in mind!
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I love my Big Agnes Copper Spur tent, it always just feels so cozy and nice inside. I’m also looking forward to sleeping in my new MacPac Dragonfly sleeping bag.
GPS DEVICE: Keeping my navigation old school with my eTrex 30x.

Annie Webster

Age 34 / Whistler, British Columbia (Canada)

BIKE: I’ll be riding on 2024 Marin Pine Mountain 2. The bike features Vittoria Mezcal 2.25” tires, FOX 34 SC fork, Shimano 12-speed, 32T/10-51T. Profile design areobars, and Ergon GP3 grips to help keep my hands functioning.
BAGS: I will be running a Revelate Design Spinelock Saddle Bag and Pitch Fork Areobar Bag. Blackburn fork bags with Salsa Everything cages. But my favorite pieces are handmade by a friend at Nook Packs Canada, Custom Frame bag and two Snack bags, not only are they my favourite purple colour, both equipped with awesome extra pockets and additional little features which come in handy for managing bits of gear.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I don’t have the lightest sleeping set up, but it does keep me comfortable. Hopefully I’ll be sleeping well with my Enlightened Equipment Quilt, Big Agnes Rapide Sleeping pad, and Big Agnes Copperspur tent.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge Explorer 2 for navigation.

Hendra Wijaya

Age 59 / Bogor (Indonesia)

BIKE: Fatback Corvus FLT. 28T chainring, SRAM X01 Eagle 12 speed 10-52T. Wheels are Bigsu carbon 27.5″ tubeless with 45NRTH Vanhelga 4.0″ and Maxxis Minion FBR 3.8″ tires. Saddle Selle. SON 28 Dynamo hub. kLite Front and Rear lights. Lupine Neo helmetlamp.
BAGS: Revelate Designs frame bag, saddle bag, handlebar bag, and cockpit bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Montbell Hugger #2 sleeping bag, Exped Bivy. Therm-a-Rest foam mat. Craft and Mammut base layer. Arcteryx Down Jacket, Montbell Winter cycle tights, Down pants, and waterproof jacket, Black Diamond mittens, REI waterproof gloves, PedalED gloves, Darn Tough Socks, Q36.5 Beanie and Buff, Oakley glasses, Salomon hydration pack, Pearl Izumi X-Alps Summit shoes.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1050, Suunto Vertical watch, iPhone 15 Pro.

Nathan Williams

Age 50 / Weston-Super-Mare (United Kingdom)

BIKE: Trek Procaliber. SRAM GX with ungraded 4 pot SRAM brakes. Aero bars, Mezcal Trail 2.25″ tires, 30T chainring, Magicshine lamp, Redshift Endurance Pro seatpost, Ergon grips.
BAGS: Aero Pack, Top Tube and Handlebar bags from Tailfin. 2x Stem Bags and custom frame bag by Restrap. RAB rucksack with 3L hydration pack and lots of room for light gear and food.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Running battery packs, main head lamp has 25hrs of run time on lowest setting so should get ten days out of it with a recharge from 24,000mah battery pack and Garmin and phone charged from 20,000mah battery pack. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Tent, Sea to Summit SP2 sleeping bag with down jacket, trousers, and boots for extreme weather, Neo light sleeping mat, Sea to Summit pillow. Six days of rations. Ability to carry 7L of water but will carry 4L normally (3L water, 1L hydration mix). I’m looking at finishing more than placing so expect to be out there for the full 15 days so have prioritized for food carrying ability and a good night’s sleep when possible in all conditions.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin 1040 Solar and android phone backup.

Charlie Winckler

Age 35 / Lancashire (United Kingdom)

BIKE: For my first ultra I’ve built up a 2025 Cotic Solaris size C5 with the following: Shimano XT groupset, 32T x 10-51T gearing, 180mm rotors. Custom hand built Arrow Wheels Carbon rims laced on Hope Pro 5 rear hub and Son 28 front hub, with Mezcal XC Trail 2.25” tyres, and Vittoria Air Liner Light tyre inserts. DTSwiss F232 110m Fork. 9point8 Fall Line R 150mm dropper and a Fizik argo terra x5 saddle. OneUp 35mm aluminium bars, on a Hope TR 50mm stem, Deda Elementi Parabolic Uno aerobars, SQLabs 411 inner bar ends, Ergon GXR grips, and a 76 Projects TT Mount 3.0 to hang my head unit and lights off. Finally with a large amount of hike-a-bike I chose to ride flats and picked the huge Burgtec Penthouse Flat B-rage pedals which I reasoned should be kind on the knees (but not my shins, RIP).
BAGS: Poca Bags custom frame bag and full length top tube – look how beautiful they are! Ortlieb Seat-Pack QR saddle bag out back, Salsa EXP side-load 13L bag up front and a Tailfin 1.7L Cage Pack down low. Finally a Restrap Race Hydration Vest on my back, which also has my waterproofs layers in. Saddle bag has layering options, a few dehydration food packs, sleeping clothes, and toiletries along with my Mountain Equipment Oreus belay jacket—I’m not getting cold. Handlebar bag has my sleep system and tent. Top tube bags contains all the snacks along with a battery pack and other charging paraphernalia. Frame bag has some easier access riding layers, stove, a few tools, water filtration kit, mains charging kit, and dehydrated rations. Finally my downtube bag has some spares I hope I don’t require—tubes, sealant, chain lube, Loctite thread locker, mech hanger, first aid kit, and a flexible spare spoke.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Really loving my Durston X-Mid Pro 1 tent and some of my Albion riding clothes. My 8g (0.28oz) Bear Bones Bikepacking alcohol stove is worth highlighting—so tiny yet perfectly formed! I haven’t used any other head unit before but the battery life on the Coros Dura has blown me away. There is also something quite satisfying about having a Dyno hub and being able to charge on the move.
GPS DEVICE: Coros Dura, with a phone as a backup and a paper map as a backup backup.

Gabi Winck

Age 62 / Brixen, South Tyrol (Italy)

BIKE: Trek Procaliber 9.8, Carbon, IsoSpeed, Fork: Fox Performance 32, Fox Racing Transfer SL Factory dropper post, e*thirteen TRS Race Carbon cranks, 30T, Shimano XT M8100 cassette, 9-50T 12-speed, Shimano Deore XT M8100 hydraulic disc brakes, Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar, XM 421 – DT Swiss front wheel, SON 28 dynamo hub, Bontrager Kovee Elite 30 Carbon rear wheel, Vittoria Mezcal III 29 x 2.5″ tires, ISM PL1 saddle, Syntace Aerobar.
BAGS: I hope that in the end I don’t carry too many things in the Tailfin AeroPack Carbon, two Tailfin panniers, top tube bag Cyclite, Revelate Designs Mountain Feedbag Handlebar Bag, my Apidura racing hydration vest, and Tailfin Cargo Cages mounted on the suspension fork.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Front light is a SON Edelux II powered by a Son 28 dynamo and on my helmet: Lupine Piko. Rear lights are Bontrager flare RT and Lupine Rotlicht Max LED. Battery chargers are NC-17, Connect APPCON 3000, Lezyne Micro Floor Drive mini pump.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin Edge 1040 Plus.

Eric Woos

Age 50 / Liege (Belgium)

BIKE: It’s a Why El Jefe built with a dynamo hub and a pair of Maxxis Ikon 2.35″ tires.
BAGS: Full Apidura.

Karen Wykurz

Age 40 / United Kingdom

BIKE: I’ll be riding this year’s SRMR on Kulpunay (Kyrgyz for ‘strawberry’), a dark red 2022 Specialized Chisel with matching DMR Vault V2 pedals.
BAGS: I have Tailfin cage packs on my front forks with a Tailfin rear top tube bag, flip bag and downtube pack to optimize my small frame size. My Tailfin bar bag completes the set with two Alpkit stem cell cockpit bags for all the snacks and an Apidura Backcountry saddle pack for everything else.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My luxury item is my set of Big Agnes mtnGLO tent lights to go with my Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Bikepacking tent. They lift the mood and make nights in the tent starlit inside and out!
GPS DEVICE: I’m using a Garmin Edge 840 for navigation.

Davide Zanardo

Age 39 / London (United Kingdom)

BIKE: I’ll be riding a Canyon Lux Trail CF 7. I went for some Vittoria Mezcal 2.35″ at the front and 2.25″ at the back. I’ll be using a 30T chainring and a 10-51T cassette. SQ Labs innerbarends and Profile Designs aerobars for comfort.
BAGS: A mix of Apidura and Tailfin. My long standing Apidura expedition saddle and handlebar packs for all my clothes and sleeping gear. Apidura Backcountry frame pack to keep stuff I will need quick access to. Tailfin top tube bag for electronics, some tools and snacks. Tailfin downtube bag for all the bike spares and tools. I will also be wearing a Salomon Adv Skin 12 for water and more snacks.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Albion kit, Exposure lights, and a comfy Fizik Argo.
GPS DEVICE: I’ll be using a Garmin 1040 with a Garmin 840 as a backup.

Artis Zugs

Age 43 / Riga (Latvia)

BIKE: I’ll be riding The Silk Road Mountain Race on an old slow Scott bike. Nothing serious, just a daily ride for fans.
BAGS: Modified Apidura bags. I’m creative and patient. I knew my needs for equipment, had my vision how it should look like and made it happen. Handmade.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Custom wheels, Extralite hub, Son dynamo hub, Berdspokes, Porte rims, Cushcore XC, Custom water system in the frame. kLite and Nitecore HC70 for lighting.
GPS DEVICE: Garmin 1030 plus, Garmin 520, phone as a backup.

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