91%Match
22
MAY
OFF-ROAD
Hellenic Mountain Race
Meteora
883 KMS
28000M
All Events
Trans Balkan Race
Difficulty Profile
TERRAIN
CLIMBING
HEAT
1350 km
Distance
30000 m
Elevation
Off-Road
Surface
Extreme
Difficulty
What to Expect on Trans Balkan Race
The Trans Balkan Race is the ultimate test of endurance, resilience, and self-reliance — a 1400 km (and 30000 m of climbing) self-supported off-road race through the untamed heart of the Balkans.
The route traces an unforgettable journey across karst deserts, glacial valleys, and high mountain passes, linking the most stunning National Parks of the Dinaric Alps and crossing four countries of the former Yugoslavia: Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
Expect no easy days. Riders face extreme temperature swings, rugged terrain, scarce water sources, and distant resupply points — making this one of the toughest and wildest bikepacking races in the world. You’ll traverse remote mountain regions and some of the last untouched wilderness in Europe.
But the Trans Balkan is more than just a race. It’s a raw, personal journey — a test of what you’re made of, and a celebration of the landscapes that shape you.
Get ready for the Balkan Party!
Bike Setup for Trans Balkan Race
Bike
Hardtail MTB
Tires
2.2-2.4" Tubeless
Cassette
10-52T
Chainring
30-32T (1x)
Your Next Challenge
Based on this event's terrain, difficulty and riding style.
86%Match
Past Event
OFF-ROAD
Montenegro Mountain Madness
Podgorica, Montenegro
700 KMS
16000M
79%Match
Past Event
OFF-ROAD
Anatolian Mountain Race
Ürgüp, Turkey
1300 KMS
32000M
77%Match
13
MAR
OFF-ROAD
Atlas Mountain Race
Beni-Mallal, Morocco
1350 KMS
25000M
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Trans Balkan Race?
Trans Balkan Race covers 1350 km with 30000 m of climbing along the way — a steadily rolling profile from start to finish.
What bike do I need?
Trans Balkan Race's terrain calls for a Hardtail MTB, ideally running 2.2-2.4" Tubeless tires. On the drivetrain side, a 30-32T (1x) chainring matched to a 10-52T cassette gives enough range for the climbing involved.
How difficult is it?
Expect a Extreme-tier challenge at Trans Balkan Race — relentlessly mountainous, climbing almost the entire way climbing over seriously technical, unforgiving terrain throughout, with mild and generally comfortable weather typical for the time of year.
When does it take place?
Trans Balkan Race runs on May 28, 2027, placing it firmly in the spring riding season, when weather can still be unpredictable, so a flexible kit is worth packing.
What surface is it?
Trans Balkan Race runs primarily on off-road, and we'd recommend 2.2-2.4" Tubeless tires to handle it comfortably.