The Story Behind Ultracycling Challenges

Ultracycling Challenges was born from disappointment, curiosity, and the simple desire to keep riding.

It all started when Iñaki wanted to take part in his very first ultradistance race. After years of motivation and preparation, he missed out on a spot when registrations filled up before he could enter. Instead of giving up, he decided to create his own adventure.

Starting from Munich, he designed a solo bikepacking route that would take him through some of the most beautiful roads and landscapes of Austria and Italy. What began as a personal escape quickly became something much bigger.

After finishing the route, Iñaki and Ainara felt there was something special in it. Something worth sharing with other riders. The route was named Monaco di Baviera Classic — “Munich Classic” in Italian — as a tribute to the strong Italian soul of the adventure. Within just a few weeks, everything was organized. More than 70 riders signed up for the very first edition.

Then reality hit.

A terrible weather forecast scared many participants away, and only 29 riders showed up at the start line. With little external support and almost no resources, Iñaki began the event while simultaneously being a participant, photographer, and crew. By the second day, for obvious reasons, he had to officially mark himself as a DNF on the very route he had created. In the end, only 12 brave riders survived the relentless rain and made history as the very first legends of Monaco di Baviera Classic.

To this day, Iñaki still has not managed to complete Monaco di Baviera Classic himself.

But somewhere along the way, Ultracycling Challenges became bigger than finishing a route. What started as one rider creating an alternative adventure evolved into a growing community built around generosity, friendship, and the shared spirit of adventure.

Today, thanks to the support of volunteers, partners, and sponsors, Ultracycling Challenges goes far beyond cycling, bikepacking or ultradistance. It is about people, stories, and the kind of experiences that stay with you forever.