Bentang Jawa

Bentang Jawa — meaning Stretch of Java in Bahasa Indonesia — is an unsupported ultra-cycling race across the full length of the island of Java, the world's most densely populated island and the cultural and economic heart of Indonesia. The race was first held in 2021, making it Indonesia's inaugural bikepacking race, and has run annually since. The course covers 1,500 kilometres from Carita Beach in the westernmost province of Banten to Banyuwangi on the eastern tip of the island, accumulating 16,000 metres of elevation gain across five provinces: Banten, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta, and East Java. Riders are given 156 hours to complete the course and must pass through five checkpoints where their brevet cards receive official stamps. The route is designed to minimise exposure to heavy traffic while still using provincial and national roads — unavoidable on an island of this population — and follows the southern and central parts of Java rather than the more industrial north coast. Terrain ranges from coastal roads along Sawarna Beach and Pelabuhan Ratu through the undulating hills of West Java, across the fertile volcanic plains of Central Java, and through the forests and tea plantations of the Javanese highlands. Temperatures can vary from 0 degrees at high altitude to above 40 degrees on coastal stretches, often within the same day. The name of the 2022 documentary made about the race — PRASETYA, a Javanese word meaning commitment or loyalty — captures the spirit the event demands. Solo and pair categories are available. The race has a strong connection to the Indonesian Audax community and is considered the flagship event of cycling endurance culture in the country.

Date to be confirmed: TBD (check Dates page)