Inside Badlands 2025, the wildest gravel challenge in Europe by 226ERS

A non-stop adventure in extreme territories

The latest edition of Badlands once again demonstrated why it is considered the most demanding gravel challenge on the continent. Starting and finishing in Granada, the participants faced more than 820 km and 16,000 m of positive slope, in a race without assistance and in total self-sufficiency.

From the heat of the Gorafe and Tabernas deserts, to the cold of the highest passes of the Sierra Nevada, this challenge requires a perfect combination of physical endurance, mental strategy and careful logistics.

A unique tour of Andalusia

The route runs through landscapes that seem from another planet: eroded land, canyons, deserts and snowy peaks like the Vane Peak, located at almost 3,400 m, the highest pass in Europe accessible by gravel bike. The alternation between arid environments, sections near the sea and mountainous terrain tests even the most experienced cyclists.

What makes Badlands special

• Total self-sufficiency: Without external support, each runner must manage their food, shelter and mechanics.
• Constant transition: from extreme heat to high mountain cold, many hours pedaling, even at night, with sleep management and continuous effort.
• Survival mentality: more than a competition, it is an internal challenge, where each meter traveled is a personal goal.

226ERS in action: nutrition to face the impossible

We have been providing key nutritional solutions in Badlands for years, and this edition has been no exception. In such extreme ultra-distance races, hydration and replenishment of electrolytes, especially sodium, are as vital as physical training.

During the last edition, Badlands once again had a 226ERS special nutritional kit for all participants, as part of our ongoing support of the test.

 More than a career, a transformative experience

Badlands is not just a sporting event: it is an experience that transforms those who live it. Every kilometer, every climb and every hour of solitude on the bike is a reminder that the real challenge lies within oneself.

At 226ERS we are proud to accompany cyclists on this journey, offering the nutrition necessary to maintain energy and mental clarity in the toughest moments. Because we know that when the body falters, it is the mind that pushes, and having the appropriate nutritional strategy makes the difference between giving up or reaching the goal.

 Badlands once again shows us that the wildest dreams can come true if pedaled with passion, endurance and the right nutrition.

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