Rigs of the 2024 Atlas Mountain Race (Part 2)

The 2024 Atlas Mountain Race grand depart has been delayed due to heavy rain. We’ve heard the organizers want to wait a full 24-hours.

Continuing on from yesterday’s post, in which we shared the first 50 loaded bikes lining up for the 2024 Atlas Mountain Race, we’re excited to present the second part of our extensive roundup. This time, we’re highlighting another 50+ rigs that are taking off from Marrakesh, Morocco, this afternoon. Browse all the rigs below, with each entry featuring a rider-submitted overview of the bags and gear they’re using. Then, head over to the 2024 Atlas Mountain Race Tracker to follow their progress live and find other event coverage. The race kicks off at 6 p.m. local time in Morocco (12 p.m. EST) today. Good luck to all the racers!

Michael Borg

Age 33 / Malta

BIKE: I’m riding a Canyon Exceed 6 CF hardtail with Vittoria Mezcal 2.35″ tyres, and aero bars for additional hand positions.
BAGS: Restrap saddle, frame, top tube, aero bar bags, and two Decathlon handlebar pouch bags. Large Restrap saddle bag for storing sleeping setup and clothes. Medium Restrap frame bag holds some tools and spares, 3L water bladder, medical kit, and other tidbits. Long Restrap top tube bag gives easy access to phone and other small items and snacks. Restrap aerobar bag used mostly for food. Handlebar pouch bags hold water bottle (for electrolytes) and snacks. Down tube bottle carries some of the denser tools and spares to keep the weight as down low as possible. I finish the setup off with a Camelbak backpack containing a 3L water bladder and space for more food.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Nomad solar panel together with a power bank for keeping the Wahoo bike computer and phone charged. Outdoor Research Helium bivy, emergency bivy, Sea to Summit Spark 2 sleeping bag, and an air mattress as shelter for the colder weather up in the mountains. I’m a thirsty guy, and so have 7L+ of water capacity for the longer sections without resupply.

Antoine Dengler

Age 36 / Berlin (Germany)

BIKE: I’ll be riding the Atlas Mountain Race 2024 on my Bombtrack Beyond plus ADV (2019) with a SEIDO TAZA prototype fork and SQ Lab touring bar. Tires: Schwalbe Racing Ray 29×2.35″ in the front, Schwalbe Racing Ralph 29×2.25″ in the back. 1×12 mechanical SRAM group with a 32T chainring. SON Dynamo hub for light and charging via KLite.
BAGS: I love my custom Gramm Tourpacking Frame bag. The seat bag, handlebar bag, and top tube bag are by Apidura. The water supply is covered by a 3L Black Diamond vest and 600ml in the bottle. Sleeping setup: Northface bivi, Sea to Summit Ether light mat and sleeping bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Tubeless booster bottle by Milkit, which I can also use for water.

Will Denning

Age 29 / London (United Kingdom)

BIKE: Santa Cruz Blur CC.
BAGS: Tailfinn aero bag and panniers.

Henrik Landergren

Age 30 / Goteborg (Sweden)

BIKE: I ride a Cube Ams 29 100 2021, XC full-sus (because I had it). Tubeless setup with Vittoria Barzo/Mescal XC-Trail (front/rear) 2.25″.
BAGS: I have an Ortlieb seat bag and a handlebar bag. A top tube (1.1L) and down tube (3L) bag from Tailfin. To get the water I need, I also have a 15-liter backpack with a 3.5L bladder and will probably stuff a down jacket and keep the large battery for my Silva free helmet mounted light in there. Sleeping is done in a Cumulus Lite 400 sleeping bag on top of a warm, hopefully not punctured, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir xLite. All that lives inside a Big Agnes tent without the inner tent but a footprint I share with my partner. Let’s see how this idea works.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I have barely tested them, but the inner bar ends are super nice for a roadie like me; they give me a bit more narrow position and put my arms into the same rotation as a road bike.

Will Lester

Age 37 / LILONGWE, MALAWI (East Africa)

BIKE: For the AMR I’m riding my Salsa Timberjack XT Z2 with 29×2.35″ Schwalbe Racing Ralphs, 1×11 drivetrain 10-51T. I added Ergon GP2 grips and Bontrager Aero Bars with a 50mm spacer.
BAGS: Inside the main triangle, I have a Revelate Designs frame bag, and I am using a Restrap seatpost and handlebar bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Outdoor Research bivy, Aegismax down sleeping bag, Therm-a-Rest ground mat, and a custom-designed bottle/snack holder from Tanzania.

Justinas Leveika

Age 34 / Tolga (Norway)

BIKE: I am going all in for comfort this time. I will be using Trek Supercaliber. Flat handlebars, but still putting on the clip-on aero bars. Hunt wheels with dynamo paired with a Supernova M99 dynamo light that will light my way forward.
BAGS: The bike is fully equipped with Tailfin bags. A couple of custom ones, including a long top tube bag (to carry my baguette) and a custom framebag. I’m fortunate to be part of their R&D team! Attached to the seatpost is their “everywhere” bag, available to all!
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: The highlight would be the whole system— I love it! I can’t wait to get going!

Ben Lewis

Age 50 / Tottenham, London Town (England)

BIKE: Specialized Epic Evo Pro (120MM out front/190x40MM out back) – a SON Dynamo Hub running a K-Lite ‘Ultra Racing lighting system’ with USB charger to recharge my battery pack, some punk Crossley Metal custom steel – to get the aero bar in the right position, where they have welded a 2nd face plate over the Syntace stem face plate, with a metal arm that comes backward towards me to allow the bar extensions to be fitted well behind the bars; some SQ Labs 30X Carbon bars (16-degree sweep); Vittoria Mezcal Anthracite, 2.35’s; Shimano’s lovely mechanical XTR M9100 with a 10/51 cassette and 32 front ring.
BAGS: Some custom E17 ‘Aravis Bag Works’ food pouches; Alp Kit handlebar bags, one between the aero bar extensions (containing the kit I’ll be taking on and off regularly) and one on the bar itself with spare shorts, 7mesh waterproof, Montbell down jacket etc; Restrap top tube bag and Tailfin carbon rack/aero trunk top pack and downtube pack 1.7L (containing tools).
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: It has been months of organizing, fettling, and purchasing, but my Exposure MK17 Joystick headtorch and battery pack should last the whole race without a charge, and I love the Salamon Sense Pro 5 hydration vest, which has been a game changer for water. The race will feel like a holiday after months of training and prep! Even with the top, lightweight kit, my ride is still around 20kgs.

Adrien Liechti

Age 38 / Geneva, Switzerland

BIKE: I’m racing my second Atlas Mountain Race on my BOMBTRACK Cale AL, with a tuned FOX 34, DT Swiss 1200 XMC Wheels, RENE HERSE Fleecer Ridge 55mm Endurance tires, 12-speed XT groupset.
BAGS: Full Apidura Backcountry setup.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: White socks for the second sunny day.

Andy Lingham

Age 49 / Cambridge (United Kingdom)

BIKE: I’ll be riding/pushing my 2021 Santa Cruz Tallboy CC, shod with new tubeless 2.35” Vittoria Mezcals and liners on their Reserve 30 carbon wheelset and a 34×10-52t SRAM Eagle XO groupset. I’ll use carbon flat bars with a few modifications for extra contact points and two bottles fixed to my Pike Ultimate Fork.
BAGS: My bags are a mixed lot of Restrap in the center, which will carry my Camelbak and charging, Tailfin Aeropack on the rear for sleeping and extra clothing, Tailfin Downtube bag for spares and first-aid. I have an Apidura Backcountry Handlebar bag up front for clothing and two Apidura 1.2l food pouches.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: For sleeping, I’ve switched to a quilt from Enigma paired with a Therm-a-Rest Neoair pad and an Alpkit Hunka XL bivvy bag, which is all very light and packable, so fingers crossed it’s warm enough. For lights, I’m using an Exposure Toro headlight backed up with a Sirus headlamp, charging via an Anker 24,000mAh power bank and Anker fast charger. Navigation will be with a Garmin 1040 Solar with my phone as a backup.

Rodrigue Lombard

Age 36 / Paris (France)

BIKE: I’ll be racing the Atlas Mountain Race on my Canyon Exceed CF SL, with DT Swiss wheels worn by Continental tires. My hands will switch between traditional grips, Spirgrips bike handles, and a very short Deda Elementi aerobar. Right in the middle of my cockpit stand my Wahoo Roam GPS and my front light to guide me through the Moroccan nowhere.
BAGS: The Apidura racing series bags will carry all my stuff (clothes, tools, sleeping system, medicines…). The aim is to keep my setup as minimal weight as possible to get a light and reactive bike on the ground. A Salomon ADV skin 12 trail backpack will complete my kit to charge water and food.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My sleeping system comprises a Sea to Summit sleeping bag, a Klymit Inertia X Frame mattress, and a SOL Escape Light bivy. The whole set is refined with an ultra-compact Patagonia trail short as a pajama!

Nils Luypaert

Age 35 / Antwerp (Belgium)

BIKE: My weapon of choice is the Orbea Oiz M LTD. The bike has a SRAM Eagle Transmission AXS 1×12 drivetrain featuring a 34T chainring and a 10-52T cassette at the rear. The front wheel is a HUNT with a SON dynamo hub, which powers both my Klite dynamo light and external battery for my smartphone. The rear wheel is an Oquo Mountain Performance MP30LTD. I upgraded my cockpit with a Profile Design Supersonic Ergo+ 35SLC, Spirgrips inner bar ends, and Ergonbikes GS3 grips.
BAGS: I’ll use a Tailfin Aero Pack and a downtube bag for storage. The custom frame pack and top tube bag are crafted by Witslingers. My handlebar bag and food pouches are from Apidura’s backcountry series.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: In my handlebar bag, I carry my full sleeping kit, which includes a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir, Sea to Summit Spark sleeping bag, and an ultralight emergency bivy by Ortovox. To cover long stretches, I have a 2L water storage bag in my Tailfin, a PEdALED hydro vest (2L), and 2 Hydro Flask bottles (0.5L each). Pedaled provides all my equipment, including a down jacket for the cold nights. The Garmin 1040 Plus solar minimizes the need for frequent recharging, ensuring a smooth navigation experience throughout my journey.

Cat Magill

Age 43 / Edinburgh (Scotland)

BIKE: I’m riding a Titus El Viajero with new Vittoria Mezcal 2.25″ tyres, a RockShox Recon fork, and a SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain with a 30T chainring.
BAGS: I’ve got the amazing Ortlieb handlebar pack, frame pack and accessory pack, Restrap stem bag, top tube bag, and Tailfin on the back.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Sleep setup is a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, Decathlon bivvy bag, and Rab Neutrino 400 sleeping bag. Lights are Exposure Toro and Exposure Joystick as a backup with LEDLenser MH10 headtorch. Key clothing items include a Ghost Whisperer down jacket, my uber-favorite 7mesh Skypilot jacket, merino arm and leg warmers for nighttime riding, and lightweight 7mesh Slab shorts and a merino shirt to keep me cool on the warm days.

Mattia De Marchi

Age 32 / Veneto (Italy)

BIKE: I’m riding a Lee Cougan Rampage Innova mountain bike with a drop bar. The bike has Fulcrum Red Zone Carbon wheels, Pirelli Scorpion XC RC 2.2″ tires, and a 34×10-52T drivetrain, upgraded with a new Ceramic Speed OSPW X pulley. Fizik Argo 00 adaptive saddle and CrankBrothers Mallet trail pedals.
BAGS: I’m using a custom frame bag from MissGrape, a Cluster 7 saddle bag, and Il Coso in the front to bring my sleeping system.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I’m running a full Supernova Lights setup to ride at night, including a B54 bike light and an Airstream mounted on my helmet.

Albrecht Mariz

Age 30 / Berlin (Germany)

BIKE: I will be riding the Atlas Mountain Race 2024 on my Cannondale Scalpel HT Carbon 3. I didn’t change much on the bike aside from the 2.35″ Mezcals and upgraded the contact points with Ergon grips and saddle, along with SQlab Innerbarends. On top, I mounted aerobars with 7cm risers for extra comfort, so I’ll still feel my hands after the race.
BAGS: Ortlieb saddlebag and frame bag, Tailfin on the downtube for spares and tools, and another on the top tube for batteries. Acepac snacks/cola bags. My quilt is in an Ortlieb drybag and strapped onto my aerobars.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Olympus mju III 80 from the ’90s and 2 rolls of film. Lights: Lunivo Sirius 1000 on the bars and Petzl Actik Core headlamp (both with spare batteries). Since I’m not using a dynamo this time, I’m bringing two Anker 26,800 mAh power banks. Sleeping setup: Forclaz mat, Klymit Pillow X (my luxury item), the Hunka XL bivvy from Alpkit, and a Therm-a-Rest Chorus 0°C quilt. I’m not a big fan of backpacks when cycling, but I will give it a try with the Salomon Active Skin 8 and a 3L bladder. Garmin 830 with remote control for navigation and a mobile phone as a backup.

Daniel Meyes

Age 45 / Zurich (Switzerland)

BIKE: Salsa El Mariachi Ti, XTR brakes, with 2×12 XT shifters, Roval Control SL wheels.
BAGS: All from Revelated Designs.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My titanium Salsa is more than 10 years old and it’s still a rocket.

Krzysztof Milosz

Age 34 / Gdansk (Poland)

BIKE: Giant Anthem Adv 2 2023.
BAGS: Topeak Backloader 6L, JackPack top tube bag and frame bag, Pedaled Hydrovest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Shimano SLX 32T/10-51T, Evanlite Carbon wheels with SON28 hub, Pirelli Scorpion 2.2″ TLR tires, SUPERNOVA M99 DY Pro, B&M e-werk charger.

Steven Moatt

Portland, Dorset (United Kingdom)

BIKE: I’m riding a Trek Supercaliber with Maxxis Ikon 2.2″ tyres. SID Comp fork. Infinity saddle.
BAGS: Bags made at Moatt Sails. Rear saddle bag cage made by Smithyframeworks. Top tube munch box, frame, and aero bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Gear highlight is the rear saddle cage, which removes any bag swing, and the top tube munch boxes.

Tom Moschitz

Age 52 / Blue Mountains, NSW (Australia)

BIKE: I’ll be riding my proven Canyon Exceed on its third major outing with a nearly identical setup, including a Ritchey 2X Carbon WCS handlebar with Profile Design Sonic Ergo 43a aero bars and Ergon GP3 grips. Tailfin Carbon Suspension Fork Mounts and Cargo cages. A Canyon VCLS 2.0 CF Seatpost, 30T front ring, and Vittoria Mezcal tubeless 2.35″ tires.
BAGS: Running with a bit of a mix, including 2x Salsa Anything Bags, 2x Revelate Designs Mountain Feed Bags, a Revelate Designs Joey Downtube Bag, Jerry Can, and Mag Tank for all my loose ends. Anything substantial is being carried in my Tailfin Aeropack, Treadlite Australia Framebag, and Revelate Designs Salty Roll.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: To counter the long cold nights, I’ll be riding in a Patagonia Nano Puff jacket, Icebreaker Merino 260 Tech mid-layer, and C5 Gore-Tex Thermo Gloves. When the opportunity arises, I’ll sleep in my Sea to Summit Spark SP3 bag and a Therm-a-Rest Neoair Xlite NXT Mat.

Alexandre Navaud

Age 24 / Cognac (France)

BIKE: The bike I will ride for Atlas Mountain Race is a Trek Procaliber carbon equipped with a Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrain, Shimano XT brakes, Rockshox Recon Gold RL (110mm) fork. Tyres are tubeless Bontrager XR3 29×2.4″. I hope to be comfortable on my SMP Well Gel saddle.
BAGS: Ortlieb seat-pack and handlebar bag, a Restrap top tube bag, and a frame bag made by my mother’s hands.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I will use my Garmin 530. For lighting, I’ll use a Fenix system and a Petzl headlamp. I have a bivy, my Nemo tensor mattress, and an Aegismax sleeping bag (3°C rating) to get some sleep. You can be sure I’ll enjoy listening to music and podcasts with my JBL clip.

Shona Oldfield & Richard Naylar

Age 54/55 / Manchester (United Kingdom)

BIKE: We’re returning to the AMR with our Salsa Powderkeg, with couplers by the awesome Bob Jackson Cycles, which now fits in a standard bike bag! With a couple of gear tweaks, we’re running a similar setup to the SRMR 2022. Middleburn tandem cranks run a triple chainset, SP dynamo, and DTSwiss hybrid hubs. EESilk seatpost and stem take the buzz out.
BAGS: Mix of Apidura, Salsa, and Tailfin out back, of course. Salsa Anything cradle up front. Four bottles in King cages dotted around with a tool keg underneath.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Klite Adventure lighting and charging with a couple of extra Exposure Joysticks. This time, PHD sleeping bags, Therm-a-Rests, and SOL bivvy covers are slightly leaner. I’m bringing a Katadyn water filter and a Garmin Etrex 30x for navigation, with an iPhone backup.

Aleksander Pachulski

Age 28 / Sopot (Poland)

BIKE: Tried and true Trek Supercaliber. Vytyv XC wide carbon rims with DT 350 hubs and Pirelli Scorpion tires. Fox suspension. The drivetrain consists of a SRAM AXS derailleur and a Shimano 10-51T cassette.
BAGS: Proudly rocking JackPack bags head to toe. I am happy to be testing some prototype products with homemade modifications to fit the Supercaliber frame better.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Prototype mini inner bar ends from Ridefarr that double as aero bars. Bocialarka front light. Super warm, light, and packable sleeping bag from the local Cumulus brand.

Mateo Paez

Age 32 / Bend, Oregon (USA)

BIKE: Specialized Epic HT fitted with Schwalbe Racing Ray tires, Super Ground casing, of course. Mechanical groupset because bikepacking. No batteries, no faff.
BAGS: All of my bags are from my amazing partners at Cyclite—waterproof, welded, lightweight, and German-engineered. The Cyclite race backpack, which fits my 3L reservoir for optimal hydration, is not shown.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: All of the kit on me is from Albion Cycling. Made to stay outside longer. Specifically the ABR1 Pocket Bibs and ZOA everything. Lightweight insulated puffer jacket and wool socks. The KLite dynamo system will stay lit through the long nights and charge other electronics. Ergon handles the contact points, specifically the SR Allroad Core Saddle and Ergon GS2 grips! Sleep kit is minimal. Fast and light, freeze at night.

Adam Palin

Age 25 / Worcester (United Kingdom)

BIKE: I’ll be riding my Santa Cruz Blur. I’ve got 120mm of travel up front and 115mm at the rear. My DT Swiss carbon wheels are paired with Continental Race King 2.2″ tires. I have an XT Deore 12-speed drivetrain and a 51T/30T ratio. I’ll run a dropper post for the descents, as it helps with handling.
BAGS: My bags are from Tailfin. The frame bag is a prototype from Tailfin, which I’ve been lucky to borrow for this race. It will hold snacks and electronics.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I’m running tyre inserts in both front and rear for added protection on rocky descents. Not shown is my hydration vest, which will hold most of my water and food alongside one bottle under the down tube.

Marc Pantscharowitsch

Age 32 / Vienna (Austria)

BIKE: Sour Pasta Party, size large with custom graphics and fade! SRAM GX AXS Eagle 1×12 with a Truvativ Descendent crankset and Garbaruk cassette. Duke rims laced to a SON 28 dynamo hub up front and DT Swiss hub out back. SQlab carbon bars, a Ritchey carbon seatpost for extra comfort, and Profile Design Aerobars.
BAGS: Wit Slingers custom frame bag, Tailfin rack, top tube bag, and down tube bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Everything is put together neatly and serviced with love by Radplatz in Vienna.

Petr Petrilak

Age 28 / Prague (Czech Republic)

BIKE: This is my special bike for bikepacking. It features a classic hardtail frame from Scott with a gravel handlebar (and aerobar), combining MTB capability with increased comfort on the handlebar. I opted for the SRAM X01 AXS groupset and a SRAM Rival gravel shifter. The bike is equipped with carbon hand-built wheels featuring DT Swiss 350 hubs and a dynamo hub from SON. The saddle is from Brooks, specifically the C15 model.
BAGS: I’ll hit the race with reliable bags from Apidura. The Expedition Saddle Pack 9L will carry my sleeping kit. The Backcountry Full Frame Pack 4L, equipped with a water bladder, will hold clothing and items I want to keep within arm’s reach. The Backcountry Long Tube Pack 1.8L on the top tube is perfect for quick access to electronics and essentials. I’ve also got two Backcountry Food Pouches for snacks. The Backcountry Handlebar Pack 7L will carry spare clothing, and the Backcountry Downtube Pack 1.8L on the lower frame tube will store spare parts and a first aid kit. I’ll be strapping on the Salomon Skin5 ADV Running Vest to enhance my versatility.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My gear highlights include the Sea To Summit Spark II sleeping bag and NEMO Tensor Insulated inflatable sleeping pad, creating a lightweight yet highly comfortable sleep system. Lighting is provided by the Exposure Dynamo REVO, eliminating battery concerns with its dynamo connection. It’s complemented by a backup Lucifer headlamp on my helmet. Navigation is made possible with the Garmin 1040, which boasts a large display and extended battery life.

Sam Pierce

Age 49 / Perth (Australia)

BIKE: I’ll ride a Lynskey Pro 29 hardtail with Shimano XT 1×11 groupset. The cockpit is fitted with SQLab and Ritchey bar ends, giving me many hand position options. The SON hub is up front to provide power for the front light and recharge the phone/battery pack. Tyres are Maxxis Ikon 2.35” up front and Kenda Booster Pro 2.35” at the rear. Based on the advice of previous participants, I’ve opted to swap out my Whisky No.9 carbon forks for a set of Rockshox Reba 120mm forks to provide extra comfort over the rocky Moroccan terrain.
BAGS: Almost exclusively Revelate Designs. My easily accessible Terrapin 14L seat pack will contain all my sleeping gear and rain jacket, while my Saltyroll Handlebar bag will carry the rest of my clothes. Energy bars, electrolytes, and food, including freeze-dried meals for when I need a break from omelets and tagines, will be stored in the frame bag. I’ll also use a Sea to Summit lightweight backpack when I need extra carrying capacity for water and food on the long remote sections.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: This will be my first foray into using a dynamo light, so I’m hoping my new kLite and Son Dynamo Hub combo will perform flawlessly. I’ll also use a bivy for the first time as my primary means of shelter, and I’ve opted for the tried and tested Outdoor Research Helium. Navigation-wise, I’ll use a Garmin 530 combined with MapOut on my phone as a backup. Big shout out to the SPARTAN crew back in Perth!

Matijs Raeymaekers

Age 35 / Antwerp (Belgium)

BIKE: I’ll be using my Pan-European NUA to ride the AMR24. It features a custom Ti frame built by Roberto in Northern Spain. The drivetrain has French TA cranks, a British Gates CDX belt, and a German 14-speed Rohloff speedhub. The front hub and rims are Swiss-made DT Swiss, and the fork is an Icelandic invention called Lauf grit SL. I have been riding this bike for over 10.000 km, and I love it. I will use 2.2″ Continental Race King tyres.
BAGS: I will use an Ortlieb frontloader and saddle pack. My framepack has been replaced by a suspended 2.5L water bag and 2x750ml bottles, allowing me to carry 4L inside the frame triangle. I have a homemade accessory pack for the frontloader and an XL snack pack.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: The incredibly robust Rohloff is the highlight of the bike, combined with a silent and reliable belt. A Sea to Summit Spark will keep me warm at night, and all electronic devices will be charged with a large power bank. I will use a Wahoo Roam for navigation.

Jamie Ramsay

Age 44 / Tillac, Gers (France)

BIKE: My bike is a Specialized Chisel 2022 (picked up last minute). The only upgrade is a new dynamo wheel and the rear derailleur, which I have changed from SRAM SX to GX.
BAGS: I am using Restrap race bags, including the saddle bag, aero bar bag, top tube bags, frame bags, and a couple of food pouches. I will also use a race vest for extra water supplies and waterproofs.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I will be completely kitted out in Gore Wear clothing, including their Endure jacket and trousers. I will use a lightweight sleep system (Sea to Summit Spark 1 with Reactor liner, sleeping mat, and an Outdoor Research Helium Bivi) supplied by Cotswold Outdoor. I have an Exposure REVO for lighting and will carry some Anker Power banks for backup power.

STEFAN REGENSCHEIT

Age 58 / ZURICH (SWITZERLAND)

BIKE: ORBEA ALMA M-PRO 2021. Drivetrain XT 1 x 12 with 32T oval absoluteBLACK chainring. Newmen front wheel, Swiss DT rear wheel, tubeless Mezcals 2.25″. XT brakes. The handlebar is equipped with Ergon grips, SQlab inner barends, and Profile Design armrests, hopefully increasing comfort.
BAGS: I’ll fill my Apidura top tube and frame bag, Ortliebs seat bag, and a thin “spring roll” from Sea to Summit. Camelbak Ultra avoids being too aerodynamic.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: a blue SON 28 and matching blue spoke nipples. I’ll find the track with Wahoo Elment Bolt. Brightness is coming from Exposure and Petzl. Devices, apart from the dynamo light, will be charged by Sinewave. Sea to Summit SPII, Forclaz mattress, and an Ultralite Bivy provide coziness. 1.3 liters in frame bottles and another 3 liters on the back help fight thirst.

Jan Rohrberg

Age 37 / Frankfurt (Germany)

BIKE: I am riding a 2023 Rose PDQ4. A hardtail mountain bike which, according to its name, is Pretty Damn Quick (PDQ). I hope this is valid independently of the rider. I changed the handlebar to add aero bars and the tires to Continental Race King Protections.
BAGS: The Ortlieb frame and handlebar bag are my two main storage compartments. If everything fits, I will not use a seat pack. Instead of the two small top tube bags, I will likely use one long top tube bag from Restrap. A Revelate Designs downtube will be used for spare parts and tool storage. My setup will be completed with a Deuter backpack, mainly for 3L of water.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: The bike and setup as a whole. I like the setup of the cockpit. I have many hand positions, the large Garmin 1040 solar, and controls for lights. Speaking about lights, I am also quite happy with the A Lupine SL AF and the Lupine Blika headlamp.

Julien Roissard

Age 35 / Chambery (France)

BIKE: I’m riding a custom Aloueta made in 2021 for the Concours de Machines, with some modifications: a drivetrain 32T x 12-speed, an 80mm suspension fork, and a SON Dynamo hub up front. Also, there is a handmade stem and arms rest combo. The tire choices are Hutchinson Python 2.25″ in the rear and Kraken 2.30″ in the front.
BAGS: Tailfin on the rear rack, Helmut on the rear of the top tube, and everything else is homemade.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: A Supernova E3 tail light in the rear and classic Sinewave Beacon up front. I’ll also be carrying an eTrex 30 for navigation.

Simon Romain

Age 37 / Annecy (France)

BIKE: Trek Procaliber, 1×12 SRAM GX 10-52T, 30T chainring. Vittoria Mezcal 29×2.25″ tyres. RockShox Reba 100mm fork.
BAGS: A mix of Tailfin, Apidura full frame, and Restrap. A 5L backpack with food and water.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I’m leaving with a light sleeping setup (Bivy, sleeping bag, mattress). The front light is an Exposure Race light and a Stoot, with two Lezyne Strips at the rear. 30,000mA power bank. I’ll be navigating with a Garmin Edge 830.

Andrea Romano

Age 37 / Colverde (Italy)

BIKE: I’ll be riding on my Canyon Exceed hardtail with 2.25” Vittoria Mezcal tires, 1×12 Sram GX AXS, 30T chainring and 10-52T Cassette. Front wheel with SON 28 dynamo hub. KLite dynamo setup with mtb light and dual charger. Lezyne rear light. Redshift Shockstop Suspension seatpost to smooth the rough terrain with an Ergon SR Allroad saddle. Ergon GS2 grips and Pro Missile Aerobars. Navigation with a Wahoo Elemnt Roam and smartphone with Quadlock mount as backup.
BAGS: Mix of Apidura bags, Tailfin Aeropack, 1.7L of water on the bike plus 2L water bladder in the Salomon Vest 12L, useful also for more food capacity.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My sleep setup consists of a Cumulus x-lite 200, Therm-a-Rest Uberlight, SOL Bivy, and pillow.

Gerard Rumen

Age 58 / Locmaria-Berrien (France)

BIKE: I’ll ride the 2024 AMR on my Trek Supercaliber. The new bike features for the AMR are a Ritchey Venture Max handlebar, a “Mulet” assembly with Shift/Brakes Force, and a 30T chainring with a 10/52T cassette. Homemade carbon bar ends with folding supports. SON Deluxe hub and KLite Gravel kit. And I’ll be riding on 2.25″ Vittoria Mezcal tires.
BAGS: It’s a mix of what I had available from my previous adventures. I made two canvas side walls for the frame to hold my hydration bags and a few clothing items.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: A Garmin 1040 Solar for tracking, a light sleeping system with a Bivy SOL, and a Therm-A-Rest Neo Air half-mat. I also have a Dakine Hot Laps 5L hip pack to complete my kit.

George Scott

Age 29 / London (United Kingdom)

BIKE: I’ll be riding AMR24 on my Canyon Exceed CF7 29er hardtail. It features Reynolds TR309 XC wheels fitted with Maxxis Ikon XCO Speed 2.35” tires for added comfort. I’m using Prime tri bars and SQlab inner bar ends to give multiple riding positions. There is no dynamo on this setup, so I rely on some big-boy antler power packs.
BAGS: Running my ever-reliant Apidura expedition handlebar and saddle bags. A Specialized frame bag and a Restrap snack bag. I’m also using a lightweight OMM 12l backpack for food and hydration.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Riding in a pair, we’ve gone for luxury with an MSR Hubba Hubba tent.

Hannah Simon

Age 26 / Austin, Texas (USA)

BIKE: I’ll be racing my new custom titanium Chumba Sendero that I helped fabricate as Chumba’s new Production Assistant! I’ll keep comfy on the gorgeous Helm MKII Air from Cane Creek and stay rolling with durable 29×2.3″ Ehlines from Teravail. I’m still rockin’ my GX AXS and stoppin’ with Magura MT8s. This bike is a miracle; thank you to every person who made it possible!
BAGS: My Sendero is decked out with the best handmade custom bags from South City Stitchworks; thank you, Zach, for the hand-delivery! Double feed bags and a full-length top tube bag for all the snacks. Full frame bag and saddle roll for all the essentials. These bags are beautifully and artfully made. I cannot wait to take them across Morocco!

Karl Somers

Age 51 / Weston Super Mare, North Somerset (England)

BIKE: I’ll be riding a Mason RAW 29er hardtail for the AMR. The bike features a dropper post, Hunt wheels with SON dynamo, Vittoria Mezcal 2.35″ tyres, SRAM AXS, and a SID Ultimate 120mm fork. Exposure Revo light up front and rear, and Petzl head torch as back up also using Prime aero bars for extra hand position.
BAGS: Tailfin rear rack with cages, x2 top tube bags, and down tube bag. I also use an Apidura frame bag and an EVO 1.5L hydration vest.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Sleep kit consists of a Sea to Summit Spark sleeping bag with Alpkit bivvy and Therm-a-Rest NeoAir sleeping pad. Navigation will be Garmin 1040 Solar.

Dennis Stegemann

Age 36 / Berlin (Germany)

BIKE: I will ride the AMR on my KOCMO TIGER Custom (Titan) on Schwalbe Racing Ralph with 2.35“ tires, a SRAM Transmission 1×12 drivetrain, 32T and 10-52T. Lights are from Supernova Design, Son 28 Dynamo, and Cycle2Charge. The handlebar is a Beast Carbon, 460mm wide.
BAGS: I mostly use Apidura, but my custom frame bag is from 7RBags, made in Ukraine.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: With the two bottles on the frame and my Apidura backpack, I can carry up to 4L of water with me. I am sleeping in an Outdoor Research Helium Bivy and RAB Mystic 600 for down to -30 degrees.

Philip Stevens

Age 62 / Fremantle, West Australia (Australia)

BIKE: I’ll be riding the AMR on my trusty 6-year-old carbon Canyon Exceed XL hardtail. This bike has traveled across Europe to Bosnia, through the South Island of NZ, and on the Munda Biddi in WA. It features a mix of Shimano GT and Sram running gear. I will run a 30T chainring up front and a 10-51T Shimano XT cassette out back. Lighting and electronics will be generated by a SON dynamo upfront hooked up to a KLite MTB light. An Exposure Diablo and a 500-lumen head torch will complement this. I will run Rene Herse Fleecer Ridge 2.2″ tires on DT Swiss carbon rear and Alex Rim Alloy front wheels.
BAGS: Tailfin will predominate with Carbon Rear Aeropack, Top Tube Bag, and Downtube bags. Revelate Designs provides the Jerry Can and Feed bags, while Rockgeist’s custom frame bag is still the biz after five years of hard wear. Upfront, an Ortlieb Dry Bag sits in a Rockgeist Bar Jam Harness.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Western Mountaineering Sleeping Bag, Outdoor Research Helium Bivy and Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLight pad. I hate blowing that thing up, though, after a hard day!
Wahoo Roam for Navigation and Mapout App on iPhone for working out how many more meters to climb!

Tom Stocker

Age 34 / New Forest (United Kingdom)

BIKE: I’ll be riding my Trek Procaliber, which has evolved to now feature a Rock Shox SID fork, Deda aerobars, and an assortment of hand grips! I’m running Mezcal tyres and an Exposure Six Pack to light the way. Mudguards are to be removed.
BAGS: Something from everyone: an Apidura saddle pack, Tailfin top tube bags, Alpkit stem bags, and a Restrap bar bag. I’ll have a Camelbak with a 3L bladder to carry extra water when needed.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My Therm-a-Rest NXT XLite will hopefully provide me with some comfort to maximize my rest.

Mona Stockhecke

Age 40 / Zurich (Switzerland)

BIKE: Specialized Epic Evo Pro 2023.
BAGS: Revelate Designs top tube bag, saddle bag, two small mag bags, and two bottle bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Elemnt Roam 2, Cumulus X-lite line down sleeping bag, Therm-a-Rest mattress, SOL bivy, rain gear, thermo underwear, spare gloves, Moutain Hardware down jacket, leg and arm warmers.

‘Rapid’ Rich Stoodley

Age 62 / Yorkshire (England)

BIKE: I’ll be trying to finish the Atlas Mountain Race on my SCOTT Scale RC Team Issue AXS Carbon Hardtail MTB. SRAM 32T Chain ring and 10-52T cassette 12-speed. KMC DLC Chain. WTB NANO 29 x 2.1″ SG2 TCS Tubeless Tyres. Sinewave Beacon 2 light from Son 28 Dynamo with Busch & Muller Nano Rear dynamo light. Bespoke Wheels built DT Swiss XR 391 25mm 32 spoke. Cane Creek eeSilk+ alloy suspension seatpost. Alpkit Sonder Confucious Bars cut to 640mm. Bar Ends & Erg Grips. Voltaic V50 13,400 mAh PowerPack. 3 x TPU spare Tubes.
BAGS: Tailfin Rack with two 10L Panniers & 5L CagePack. Tailfin TopTube Flip Top and Tailfin Fork Cages on Clamps. 1.7L Down Tube Pack. Decathlon 20L Front Roll Bag held with Tailfin Cargo Straps. 2x Decathlon canvas sweet bags.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My GOREWEAR cycling clothing is spot on, especially my SpinDrift Cargo Bib Shorts, and without a doubt, I would never be without my GOREWEAR C5 ShakeDry 1985 Waterproof Jacket. My Tailfin Rack and Bags are two of my best bits of equipment. WTB Nano TCS Tubeless tyres are brilliant on and off-road. WTB Devo titanium saddle with the pickup handle is ideal for hike-a-bike. The Sinewave Beacon 2 Light also has a built-in Charger USB port. Voltaic V50 13,400 mAh PowerPack. NZERO Dry Wax Chain Lube. Outdoor Research Helium Bivvy Bag with Rab Eco sleeping bag and sleeping mat. I carry 2.75L of water and have a tiny Alpkit Kraku Stove as I like a brew. I’ll navigate using a Wahoo Roam, and my phone will be held securely with a QuadLock out-front mount.

Dawid Mckoper Stolc

Age 40 / Gdynia (Poland)

BIKE: Trek Procaliber 9.8 Gravel XC.
BAGS: JackPack Waleń, JackPack Góral, Jack Pack Tobołek 2.0.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Shimano XT crankset with Deckas, 32T oval Wolf Tooth ring and 10-52T SRAM XX1 cassette, Bontrager Carbon wheels with SON28 hub, Rene Herse Fleecer Ridge 700x55mm tires, SUPERNOVA M99 DY Pro, Hope RX4+ disc calipers.

Stepan Stransky

Age 39 / Czech Republic

BIKE: MERIT frame, SID fork, Joyseat by Posedla saddle, hybrid bear handlebar, SRAM AXS 1×12 drivetrain, XT brakes, TURBO carbon wheels, ZIPP handlebar.
BAGS: Ortlieb small frame bag, custom top tube bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: For three years, I developed a special bikepacking jersey and trousers with many pockets and a long life expectancy.

Jack Taylor

Age 33 / London (England)

BIKE: I’ll ride my Sour Pasta Party with a full Shimano XT drivetrain for AMR. Wheels are aluminum DT Swiss rims with a Son dynamo hub on the front and Hope Pro 5 in the rear, with 2.35″ Mezcals. I am not taking any chances here.
BAGS: For bags, I have a custom NIB Workshop full frame bag (with plenty of compartments and storage), a Tailfin top tube bag, Revelate Designs Front Harness, and a Restrap Saddlebag. I’ve been using all these for many trips and am confident they survive the race. They weigh a bit, but I am going for reliability over weight for this one.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Going for a bivy paired with a -5 sleeping as my shelter; for navigation, I’m going with Wahoo Elemnt Bolt, and for guidance in the dark, I’ve got a kLite running off the dynamo setup.

Sky Tettero-Croby

Age 40 / Guelph, Ontario (Canada)

BIKE: I’ll be racing the Atlas Mountain Race on a Ti Salsa Fargo hardtail with a RockShox SID Select suspension fork. The tires are 29×2.4″ Maxxis Rekon Race. It has a 1×12 drivetrain, 10-50T cassette, 34T cog, and a SRAM AXS X01 derailleur. The Klite front and back lights are powered by a SON dynamo, which will also be charging my power banks. New additions this year are the Old Man Mountain Elkhorn back rack to accommodate the PNW Pine dropper post. It will come in handy with all of the steep and rocky descents.
BAGS: Full frame, top tube bag, and feed bags are all by Relevate Designs. The roll-top cargo cage bags are by Restrap, and a 10L Sea to Summit dry bag is strapped to the rack deck.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: For the sleep system, I’ve modified a Zpacks 30F down Solo Quilt with additional snaps to turn it into a sleeping bag while still being ultralight. It will go inside an OR Helium Bivvy and on top of a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir 3/4 length air mattress for maximum R-factor. I’ll use a 1.5L hydration backpack and three 1L water bottles for hydration. I’ll bring a 700ml snap-lock plastic container to take away omelets and the occasional tajine.

Adrien Thomas

Age 34 / Marrakech (Morocco)

BIKE: Titanium MTB Skyde. Pair of THUNDERBURT tires 29×2.2″, a 1×12 drivetrain, SRAM GX with a 32T chainring, carbon wheels without dynamo. The fork is a RockShox SID Ultimate SL, titanium seatpost, and Thomson titanium flat bar.
BAGS: One at the front for sleeping bag system. One at the back from Wohoo for all the other stuff.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Battery light from a French compagny K-lamp with 10,000mah battery. I’m bringing one extra 25000mah battery and two 10,000mah batteries with a fast-charging system.

Victor Thomas

Age 39 / Tours (France)

BIKE: Let me introduce you Casper. Casper is a funky little ghost bicycle. As a ghost, he’s feather-light and floats above the trails effortlessly. He likes to haunt woods at night time, making freaky freewheel noises. Even though it is useless, I’ve bought him a pair of wheels equipped with tires. So he looks like the other bicycles and can make friends.
BAGS: Casper is kind enough to tolerate me on his saddle, so I’m carrying the water on my backpack for both of us.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Casper fears vampires, so I’m taking pink garlic in my food pouch just in case.

David Tilly

Age 58 / Dublin (Ireland)

BIKE: I will be riding a Specialized Chisel with upgraded wheels and Vittoria Mezcal 2.25” tyres. 1×12 speed SRAM groupset. 32T, 10-50T on the rear. It has Olight lights, a 20,000mA battery pack, and a Garmin 1040 Solar for navigation.
BAGS: I will use two top tube bags from Zéfal with a frame bag from Decathlon. I will also use a saddle bag from Decathlon with a 20L capacity and a small pouch on my handlebars.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: The highlight of my gear is the Irish flag on the back of my bike, which will flow in the Atlas Mountains wind.

Daniel Townend

Age 50 / London (United Kingdom)

BIKE: Riding my Curve GMX+ with Vittoria Mezcal 2.35” tires and airliners on Curve Dirt hoops, SRAM Eagle AXS, 50-10T cassette, 30T chainring, and a SON Dynamo hub. 55cm Curve Walmer bars and Redshift grips. Klite front and rear light plus Exposure Diablo.
BAGS: Tailfin Aeropack and top tube bag. Restrap front bag and half-frame bag. 2L Salomon hydration vest, two bottles, and some neat fork mounts from Bentley Components for extra water on the longer stretches between resupply.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite pad with Sea-to-Summit III sleeping bag. Outdoor Research Helium bivvy. Garmin Edge 530 for navigation.

Tycjan Trzpiola

Age 36 / Amsterdam (The Netherlands)

BIKE: I’m riding the one and only Trek Checkpoint SL5 2023, with a small modification for this year: a new SRAM Rival plus GX Eagle drivetrain. In the front, I have 1×12. The front sprocket is 40T, and the lowest gear in the back is 50T. So, I’m ready to climb. Full carbon wheelset from Bontrager Aeolus 3 Pro with 50mmx700 WTB Ventura tires.
BAGS: The best solution is a mix of Baby Legs and Restrap. This time, I want to put my whole sleeping system in the front bag on the aero bar. In the middle is all the stuff that I need during the race. In the back are all the clothes I will need during the race.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I will use the Pajak Core 400 sleeping bag for cold nights, rated for four seasons. I will also have the Lezyne Super Drive 1800+ light up front.

Andrew Turner

Age 57 / Bishop’s Stortford (United Kingdom)

BIKE: This is my first time at the Atlas Mountain Race, but I’m riding a familiar bike with a setup that has taken me on several adventures. A Curve GXR in single-speed mode (34 x 16T). 650b Maxxis Ikons and SRAM Force for stopping.
BAGS: Tailfin on the rear, Oveja Negra frame bag, and Apidura at the front and forks.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I would not ride without the trusted Selle Anatomica X2. If ever there was a saddle fitting a body like a glove…

Kim Vanderhulst

Age 47 / Nethen, Waals Brabant (BELGIUM)

BIKE: I will be riding the Atlas Mountain Race 2024 on a 2015 (!) Koga X29 frame. I bought it as a daily commuter, and it came with a rigid fork, which I have swapped for a 120mm travel RockShox fork, especially for AMR 2024. It has a 2×10 XT drivetrain and a SP dynamo powering a KLite system. I also fitted an Ortlieb Quick Rack, Profile Design Sonic Ergo 35a aero bars, and Ergon GS3 grips. The wheels are basic and still use quick-release, but that will likely do. I will be running 2.25″ Vittoria Mezcals.
BAGS: I have a mix of brands chosen for fit and looks. On the Ortlieb Quick Rack, I strap a Riverside 20L dry bag. The top tube bag and the front handlebar cradle and bag are by Restrap. An Apidura 6L Expedition frame bag was the best fit without going custom, and I will also use a Revelate Designs downtube bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My sleeping system consists of an Outdoor Research Helium bivvy, a Sea to Summit Spark III sleeping bag, and a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite sleeping Pad. I’m very happy with the K-Lite system and will use it with an Exposure Joystick headtorch. I will rely on a Wahoo Elemnt Roam v2 with a Garmin Edge 1000 as a backup for navigation.

Maarten Vanhaverbeke

Age 39 / Brakel, Flemish Ardennes (Belgium)

BIKE: I have now completed the Tour Divide, Granguanche Audax Trail, A-Cross the 3 & 5, and Taunus Bikepacking on this bike, so I see no reason to change bikes for AMR. As a professional bike mechanic, I’ll be forever tinkering, but it’s still the same bike. Steel Mason InSearchOf frame, Ritchey Beacon drop bars (46cm), SWS Wheels hand-built wheelset (SON/DT 240), René Herse Fleecer Ridge tires, SRAM 1×12 electronic shifting (Force/XX1). I’ve recently swapped the carbon fork for a RockShox SID SL Ultimate suspension fork. Other things: Shimano XT crankset and cassette (10-51T), Wolf Tooth 32T chainring, KLite lights and charger, Syntace aerobars with SRAM shifting blips and Leap Components mounts, Specialized Power saddle, SRAM HS2 rotors, SwissStop brake pads.
BAGS: Revelate Designs feedbag, seat bag (Shrew), and frame bag (Rifter). Apidura long top tube pack and downtube pack. Miss Grape ILCOSO handlebar bag mount with a 7L Revelate Pronghorn drybag. I’m using a Camelbak Chase 8 hydration vest with a 1.5L bladder and an Apidura 1.5L bladder in the frame bag.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Sleep kit: Cumulus bivy (Shield) and sleeping bag (X-Lite 400), Therm-a-Rest UberLite mattress. Petzl Tikka headlamp for extra light. Garmin Edge 1040 Solar for navigation. Inreach tracker. Proper winter gloves, brand new overshoes I’ll probably destroy, and merino, lots of merino.

Quinda Verheul

Age 34 / Rotterdam (The Netherlands)

BIKE: I’m excited to ride a new prototype full suspension bike from Sour Bicycles, decked out with Fox suspension and Hope components. The bike features Duke wheels laced to a Hope Pro 5 rear hub and SON dynamo front hub. I’ll use Schwalbe tires—Racing Ray in the front and Thunder Burt in the rear. I use a kLite dynamo system for lighting and charging.
BAGS: Tailfin designed a bag around my frame, and it’ll fit 3L water (to help eat snacks), while my sleep system and some extra snacks will be in my handlebar bag. Out back, Tailfin made me a pared-down version of their AeroSnack for extra layers on colder nights. All my cockpit bags are for snacks, including peanut butter.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Carrie Gere made me a custom vest to carry essential liters of water and stock up on snacks along the route, and PedalEd got me all merino’d out and full of snack pockets.

Rick Jan Warmelink

Age 46 / Dedemsvaart, Overijssel (The Netherlands)

BIKE: My bike for the AMR is a Sensa Fiori (2021). I swapped the tyres for a pair of 2.25″ Mezcals. It has a custom-built front wheel with SP dynamo. Light and charging by a KLite system. Instead of a flat bar/aero bar, I will use a Cinelli Double Trouble handlebar (what could possibly go wrong?). I like flat pedals to get on and off the bike more easily.
BAGS: All I carry fits in a bikepacking set by Topeak: seat pack, front roll, pouch, and two fuel tanks.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: THE highlight of my gear must be my framebag. It was handmade on the kitchen table by Tamara and has served me very well during AMR 2023 and several Audax Brevet rides. I keep a 2L Platypus bladder and my night clothes (puffer, gloves, buff) in the frame bag. The total water capacity is 4.25L. Navigation is done with Garmin Etrex 30X. I have an Outdoor Research Helium Bivy, Enlightened Equipment Quilt, and Therm-a-Rest mat for sleeping. Furthermore, I’ll carry an alcohol burner, pot, and a few instant outdoor meals to keep me happy.

Mel Webb

Age 27 / Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada)

BIKE: I’ll be racing the AMR on my Cannondale Scalpel HT (S) with a Fox Factory 32-Stepcast suspension fork. The drive train is a SRAMano — a GX AXS rear derailleur + shifter, Shimano chain, and cassette. A Shutter Precision boost dynamo hub and a Sinewave beacon will help power my electronics. I’ve just swapped the tires to Maxxis Rekon Race 29 x 2.25″ in the EXO casing paired with Orange Seal.
BAGS: My Salsa Anything cradle and dry bag will house my sleep system + Albion Insulated Zoa Jacket. Spare clothes, toiletries, and food will go in a 9L Apidura Saddle Pack. My emergency kit, water tabs, and more spare room for food will be in my 5L Oveja Negra Bodega full-frame bag. Apidura top tube bag for easy snack access, resupply notes, etc.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Clothing from Albion is a real highlight for me. Every piece is so good and can get you through any conditions. I’m stoked to have their support this year.

Marcus Wendt

Age 41 / London (United Kingdom)

BIKE: This is my first bikepacking race, so I’ve trusted my friends from Fairlight to assemble a new Holt steel hardtail MTB. Following the advice from James Hayden and some of their riders, it’s set up for comfort and robustness with Ergon bar ends, aero bars, electronic shifting via SRAM XX0 AXS, SON dynamo, and my favorite Ergon flexi seatpost.
BAGS: Pretty complete Tailfin setup (thanks for the custom last-minute frame bag!) and 2 Restrap food pouches. A lot of riders here go even more lightweight.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: My first time using a SON dynamo setup; I love the autonomy it provides.

Angus Young

Age 27 / Blandford Forum, Dorset (England)

BIKE: True to style, I haven’t found time to get a nice photo of my Atlas rig. Luckily, though, I am running almost exactly the same setup as I used for the Silk Road Mountain race in August. That is a Mason InSearchOf with 1×11 Shimano GRX di2 rolling on Hunt Beyond Carbon Dynnamo wheels and Vittoria Mezcal 29×2.6″ tires.
BAGS: All my kit is in the Restrap Race range bags; nothing stands out, but as I’ll be racing as a pair with Megan, we have shared some bits and bobs, saving weight.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: Dynamo setup powers an Exposure Revo and Sinewave Reactor. All my clothing is from Dhb, primarily some Aeron Ultra bib shorts and jersey.

Tomasz Zakolski

Age 43 / Gdynia (Poland)

BIKE: I’ll be riding the Atlas Mountain Race on a rigid Trek Stache 5. The bike is set up on huge and comfy 29×3.0″ XR2 tires with the stock setup improved with Sunringle Duroc 50 SL rims, 11-46T SLX cassette, a 30T Garbaruk chainring, and a SON28 dynamo hub up front. I’ve added TT bars from Deda to increase comfort and fight the headwinds.
BAGS: My setup is a mix of local bags from Triglav at the front and rear, a top tube bag from Jackpack, and a frame bag from Blackburn. On the fork and down tube, there are custom 3D-printed adhesive bottle cage mounts from “drzewniane” holding three 0.7L bottles.
GEAR HIGHLIGHTS: I’ll be lighting up my way with a KLite front light, a Snugpack bivy, a mattress from FjordNansen, and a Cumulus sleeping bag will be my million-star hotel for the race. I will navigate with a Garmin Edge 530 backed up by a spare Garmin eTrex 32.

Further Reading

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