Dead Ends & Cake 2026
📍 eastern Switzerland, Switzerland
gravelroadmtb
Date
19-21 June 2026
Distance
500km
Elevation
9,000 m
Difficulty
mtb
The Rift 2026
Icelandic Highlands, Iceland · 17–18 July 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
Covering distances from 60km to 330km across Iceland's wild, volcanic highlands, The Rift is a challenging gravel race featuring black sand, river crossings, and lava fields for an ultra-endurance experience.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 60km · 140km · 200km · 330km
- Elevation
- 4,600 m
- Surface
- gravel, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 2.8–3.8
Rider fit
Who it's for
This race is ideal for gravel riders seeking a unique challenge, from those wanting a fast taste of Icelandic terrain to ultra-endurance enthusiasts exploring raw interiors.
Who will struggle
Riders unprepared for long distances, significant climbing, and technical terrain like river crossings and lava fields will find the longer courses particularly demanding.
Training focus
Training should prioritize sustained power for varied gravel terrain, climbing endurance, and bike handling skills for rough sections and river crossings.
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 race distances are available for The Rift?+
The Rift offers routes from 60 km (The Crack), 140 km (The Crevasse), 200 km (The Rift), to 330 km (The Abyss).
What kind of terrain will riders encounter in The Rift?+
Riders will experience the wild, volcanic highlands of Iceland, including black sand gravel, climbing, river crossings, and lava fields, with vast open views.
When and where does The Rift 2026 take place?+
The Rift 2026 is scheduled for July 17-18 in Hvolsvöllur, Iceland.
How can I register for The Rift?+
Registration is open now, and you can find details and register through the website's registration section.
Is The Rift a gravel race or an MTB race?+
While the website mentions 'The Rift MTB' in some navigation, the primary description highlights 'Gravel racing at its best' and focuses on 'black sand gravel' routes, indicating it is primarily a gravel event.
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