Taurus Mountain Race
📍 Taurus Mountains, Türkiye
gravelmtb
Date
14–24 October 2026
Distance
1460km
Difficulty
gravel
The Rhino Run
NAMIBIA, Namibia and South Africa · 12 October 2026
Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal
Covering a massive 3,050 km of rugged terrain, this unsupported gravel bikepacking epic takes riders on a brutal journey from Namibia to South Africa with 30,000 meters of climbing. It is a true test of extreme endurance and self-sufficiency across remote desert roads.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 3050km
- Elevation
- 30,000 m
- Surface
- gravel, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 3.8–5
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event is designed for elite ultra-endurance cyclists and experienced bikepackers who excel in extreme isolation and self-supported logistics.
Who will struggle
Riders who lack experience in self-reliance, wilderness navigation, or coping with extreme desert temperatures and long stretches between resupply points will struggle.
Training focus
Preparation must center on immense back-to-back volume, riding a heavily loaded bike over loose surfaces, and mental conditioning for multi-day solo riding.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What is the total distance and elevation of the Rhino Run?+
The race spans a distance of 3,050 kilometers and features 30,000 meters of vertical elevation gain.
Where does the route begin and end?+
The journey starts in Windhoek, Namibia, and finishes in Graaff-Reinet, South Africa.
Are riders allowed to have support vehicles or crew?+
No, this is a completely unsupported bike-packing race, meaning participants must navigate the entire route self-sufficiently.
What kind of bicycle is recommended for this route?+
The event is designated as a gravel bike-packing race, making a capable gravel or adventure bike equipped for rough dirt roads the ideal choice.
What is the official start date and time for the 2026 race?+
The race is scheduled to begin at 6:22 AM on October 12, 2026.