Silk Road Mountain Race
Follow our athlete Neza Peterca as she was riding the worlds hardest unsupported bikepacking race in Kyrgyzstan.
Kyrgyzstan: where the race is set
Kyrgyzstan's rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for the Silk Road Mountain Race (SRMR), a grueling bikepacking adventure that challenges even the most experienced cyclists. This race, which traverses some of the most remote and beautiful regions of Central Asia, has become a bucket-list event for ultra endurance bikepackers around the world.
THE ROUTE
The Silk Road Mountain Race is a self-supported bikepacking race that covers over 1938 kilometers of Kyrgyzstan’s diverse terrain. The route is a demanding mix of high-altitude passes, challenging singletrack, and remote off-road paths. Riders must navigate through mountainous landscapes, crossing several mountain ranges, and deal with the unpredictable weather and isolation that is typical for this region.
The race is inspired by the historical Silk Road trade routes that once connected Asia with Europe, though the actual route is far more adventurous and treacherous. The SRMR is not just a race; it’s an exploration of Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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THE TERRAIN
Cyclists embark on a journey that takes them through the heart of the Naryn region. The route includes the famous Kegety pass, which sits at an elevation of over 3,785 meters. Riders face steep ascents and descents, often battling extreme weather conditions.
The race also passes through remote villages, where participants can experience traditional Kyrgyz hospitality. The landscape ranges from lush green valleys to arid high-altitude plains, showcasing Kyrgyzstan’s diverse ecological zones. The challenges of navigating such varied terrain are compounded by the need for self-sufficiency, as support services are minimal.
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THE CHALLENGES
Bikepacking the Silk Road Mountain Race is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a mental and emotional journey. Riders must contend with altitude sickness, harsh weather, and the solitude of Kyrgyzstan’s remote regions. The self-supported nature of the race means that participants must be prepared for mechanical failures and have the skills to handle their own repairs and any other challenges they might encounter throughout the race.
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THE BIKE
For the race we chose the new Lector WC 30, for its lightweight frame, faster acceleration and less fatigue over prolonged periods. This is crucial for the SRMR, where riders must tackle long distances, steep climbs, and rugged terrain.
Check out the bike Check out the bikePREPARATION & KIT
Preparation for the Silk Road Mountain Race requires thorough planning. Not only is high-altitude biking training necessary, but figuring out the appropriate kit for the race takes a lot of time.
Packing the right clothing for the Silk Road Mountain Race (SRMR) is essential due to the diverse and often extreme weather conditions encountered along the route. The clothing needs to be versatile, functional, and suitable for a range of temperatures and weather scenarios. We brought everything from down pants, to rain jackets and sun hats.
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FOOD
Given the race's remote location, we needed to carry a substantial amount of food to sustain us through long stretches without resupply. We packed enough dehydrated meals, protein bars, and hydration tablets for six days. When we reached resupply points, we typically restocked with bread, chocolate bars, and various sweets—essentially whatever was available in the small village shops.
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SCRATCHING
Unfortunately, we both had to end the race early due to illness. However, after a few days of rest, we were able to resume riding and still had the opportunity to experience the breathtaking, vast landscapes.