BIKE Festival Willingen: Action, Trends und Sommergefühle zum Auftakt

The starting signal for three days of MTB action has been given: The BIKE Festival Willingen has opened in glorious sunshine and anyone who hasn't yet made plans for the weekend should grab their bike and head to the Hochsauerland as soon as possible. Until Sunday, it's all about one thing: bikes, bikes, bikes.

Spontaneous registrations for some races are still possible and around 100 exhibitors are already waiting with the latest bikes, trends and activities to take part in and have fun. You can also let off steam away from the racing action on the numerous trails in and around the bike park and test out the latest equipment. New test routes are available for this festival weekend: from short, crisp, flowing, to long and enjoyable, for mountain bikers and e-bikes, but also for gravel and racing cyclists. If you don't have your own bike with you, you can hire a suitable test bike - or equipment - from one of the exhibitors at the Expo. It pays to arrive early, as the bikes are usually in high demand.

Free admission and full programme

Just in time for the start of the festival, the sun spoils the area at the bike park, so you can start the day relaxed in the festival camp, do your first laps to warm up and stroll around the fair with a coffee or ice cream. Admission is free on all three days, the fair is also open on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m., and those who still have energy left in their legs in the evening can hit the dance floor at the festival party in the K1 Hütte.

Visitors who want to improve their maintenance and repair skills can still register spontaneously for one of the BIKE Academy workshops. From brake maintenance to the JobRad Loop screwdriver workshop, arm pump on the downhill to load securing bike transport, there is plenty of expert knowledge here for free.

German championship in E-Enduro and gravel fun

There are also still places available for one or two races. It starts today in a rather relaxed manner with the Gravel Ride (1.30 pm). The festival classic starts at 7.30 am on Saturday: the BIKE Marathon with three routes to choose from. Shortly afterwards, the starting signal will be given for a premiere: from 8.30 a.m., the Bosch eMTB Challenge - For the first time, the festival will also feature the German E-Enduro Championship will be held. Sunday offers even more action with the Scott Enduro Racethe iXS Donwhill Cup and the Scott Junior Trophythe big highlight for young MTB riders. Here the youngsters can be cheered on like the grown-ups. The youngsters experience even more action at the VPace Kids CupThe participants ride a course twice that is tailored to their age group and focusses on technique and downhill.

The complete programme and everything you need to know about the event: BIKE Festival Willingen 2026: MTB outdoor trade fair with side events and testing opportunities | DKEVENTS