The Anatolian Mountain Race is a self-supported ultra-endurance bikepacking event that cuts across the spine of Turkey, showcasing the wild and varied terrain of Anatolia. Spanning roughly 1,260 kilometers with more than 32,000 meters of climbing, it challenges riders to navigate remote gravel tracks, mountain passes, and ancient trade routes entirely under their own power. Starting in the surreal volcanic landscapes of Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys and cave dwellings, the route pushes south through high plateaus, rugged canyons, and isolated villages before finishing on the shores of the Mediterranean in Alanya. With minimal outside support and limited resupply points, competitors must carefully plan their strategy, nutrition, and sleep, balancing speed with endurance and self-reliance. The Anatolian Mountain Race is more than a cycling competition; it is an exploration of culture, geography, and personal limits, demanding resilience, adaptability, and a sense of adventure from everyone who lines up at the start.
Based on this event's terrain, difficulty and riding style.
Anatolian Mountain Race covers 1300 km with 32000 m of climbing along the way — a steadily rolling profile from start to finish.
A Hardtail MTB is the right tool for Anatolian Mountain Race. Set it up with 2.2-2.4" Tubeless rubber and gear it low — a 30-32T (1x) chainring and 10-52T cassette will keep you spinning on the steeper sections.
Anatolian Mountain Race carries an overall difficulty rating of Extreme. The terrain itself is seriously technical, unforgiving terrain throughout, the climbing is relentlessly mountainous, climbing almost the entire way, and conditions tend to run mild and generally comfortable.
Anatolian Mountain Race takes place on May 24, 2026. That puts it in spring, when weather can still be unpredictable, so a flexible kit is worth packing.
Surface-wise, expect off-road throughout Anatolian Mountain Race — 2.2-2.4" Tubeless tires are a safe bet.