The 6 best mountain bike stages races
In this blog post we explore some of the best mountain bike stages races in the world! From the Swiss Epic to the Yak Attack, any of this races would be an unforgettable experience for any cycling aficionado. Doesn't matter if you are mainly a road bike cyclist, this races will make you discover amazing places and challenge you physically and mentally.
The Swiss Epic - Switzerland
photo credit: Swiss Epic
The Swiss Epic is a five-day mountain bike stage race that takes place in the Swiss Alps. The race was first held in 2013, and has been held annually since then. The race is open to both professional and amateur riders, and features some of the most challenging stages in mountain biking.
The Swiss Epic is known for its tough stages, which often include long climbs and technical descents. The race starts in Grindelwald and finishes in Davos. Along the way, riders will traverse some of the most beautiful scenery in Switzerland, and you cycle along the most iconic mountains in the Alps, including the Eiger, the Jungfrau, and the Matterhorn.
The Swiss Epic is a true test of mountain biking endurance, and is considered one of the most difficult stage races in the world. If you're looking for a challenge, and an opportunity to see some of the most stunning scenery on two wheels, then the Swiss Epic is definitely worth considering.
When: Mid August
Where: Switzerland
Distance: 350km
Titan Desert - Morocco
Photo credit: Titan Desert
The Titan Desert is an Iconic race when it comes to mountain bike races. It that takes place in Morocco and it's one of the toughest mountain bike races in the world, due to the extreme conditions that riders have to face. The race covers a distance of 600km along 6 days. Riders have to contend with sand dunes, rocky terrain, and temperatures that can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius. Despite the challenges, the Titan Desert is an extremely popular race, with over 1,000 riders taking part each year.
When: April - May
Where: Morocco
Distance: 600km
The Absa Cape Epic - South Africa
Photo credit: Absa Cape Epic
The Absa Cape Epic is held annually in South Africa. The race covers a distance of around 800 kilometres over eight days, with riders completing stages that range from 35-80 kilometres in length each day. The race attracts some of the world's top mountain bike riders, as well as amateurs looking for a challenge.
The race takes place in the Western Cape province of South Africa, with the start and finish line located in Cape Town. Riders will traverse a variety of terrain during the race, including forests, mountains, and coastal roads. The scenery along the route is truly stunning, making the Absa Cape Epic a must-do event for any mountain bike enthusiast.
While the race is certainly challenging, it is also an immensely rewarding experience. Completing the Absa Cape Epic is a badge of honor for any rider, and the friendships formed during the event last a lifetime.
When: Mid March
Where: South Africa
Distance: 660km
Iron bike - Italy
Photo credit: Ironbike.it
If you're looking for an epic mountain bike race that will take you through some of the most stunning scenery Italy has to offer, then look no further than the Iron Bike race. This gruelling race takes place over 7 days and covers a total distance of around 500km, with around 10,000m of climbing thrown in for good measure. The route takes in some of the country's finest singletrack, technical descents and lung-busting climbs, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking alpine scenery.
Then the Iron Bike is definitely worth considering. It's one of the toughest mountain bike races out there, but with beautiful scenery, great food and wine, and some truly incredible riding on offer, it's an experience you'll never forget.
When: End of July
Where: Italy
Distance: 650km
Transalp - Italy
Photo credit: Bike Transalp
The Transalp is one of the most popular mountain bike stage races in the world. It takes place in the Italian Alps and covers a distance of over 700km. The race is split into seven stages, with each stage covering a different section of the Alps. The race starts in Austria and finishes in Italy, with riders having to complete all seven stages within seven days.
The scenery is breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment you feel at the end of the week is second to none. If you're looking for a challenge, and an opportunity to see some of the most beautiful places on earth, then the Transalp is definitely for you.
When: Mid July
Where: Austria to Italy
Distance: 700km
Breck Epic - USA
Photo credit: breckepic.com
The Breck Epic is one of the most famous mountain bike stage races in the United States. The race takes place around Breckenridge, Colorado, and includes some of the most spectacular singletrack in the country. The race course changes each year, but typically includes around 100 miles of riding with over 10,000 feet of climbing.
The Breck Epic is a true test of endurance and bike handling skills, and attracts some of the best mountain bikers from around the world. If you're looking for a challenging stage race that will take you to some of the most beautiful places in the country, then the Breck Epic is definitely worth checking out.
When: Mid August
Where: USA
Distance: 160km
Conclusion
In the end, the best mountain bike stages race is the one that challenges you the most and leaves you feeling fulfilled at the end. It doesn't matter where you go, it should be a race that pushes you to your limits and teaches you something about yourself in the process.
There are many great mountain bike stages races out there, so it's important to find one that suits your abilities and goals. With a little training, you're sure to enjoy any of the races in this list. Good luck!