A pinch of cross country, two pinches of Ninja Warriors and the whole thing in an exclusive quarry location near Wuppertal: with the Radical thinks Red Bull is rethinking the topic of mountain bike racing and invites you to the premiere of its latest event on 24 October 2020. In order to make it to the finish line before the time limit of two hours, participants have to overcome 22 obstacles in addition to 25 kilometres and 600 metres in altitude. From the bottom of the quarry, the course winds its way over steps up to 30 metres high with numerous climbing and downhill sections. Then it's up to a spoil tip and over single trails through the neighbouring woods towards the finish. The course is spiced up with carrying and climbing sections through mud, sand and water as well as riding technique tests. A new surprise awaits around every bend. As with StrongmanRuns, there is a mass start and the registration fee including starter package is 49 euros.
Registration and all information at www.redbull.com/radical
- The course winds for 25 kilometres through the quarry, the slag heap and the adjoining forests.
- You climb 600 metres in altitude from the lowest point in the quarry to the finish.
- 22 obstacles for driving, carrying and pushing are in the way of the participants.
The route
1 - Immediately after the start, it gets wet with a water crossing.
8 - The tyre pyramid is not the only carrying or climbing passage.
12 - A few fast single trails await in the neighbouring forest.
14 - The Rockgarden demands a clean downhill riding technique.
21 - The last ramp before the finish line is a tough one.
FAQ - what you need to know
- According to the regulations, you can take part on any bike with studded tyres. However, we would advise against cyclocross or gravel bikes. A fully with 100-130 millimetres of suspension travel is better - e.g. a Specialized Epic Evo.
- If a mass start is not possible due to the coronavirus, smaller groups will start. Safety is a top priority at the Red Bull Radical. In the event of a cancellation, the entry fee will be refunded.
- Make sure your tyres have the necessary puncture protection and a somewhat coarser tread, as the ground is quite rocky and sometimes very loose. For example, the Continental CrossKing in the protection version.
Interview Markus Schulte-Lünzum (ex-professional & sports director)
BIKE: Which is harder, the World Cup course in Albstadt or the Radical course?
MARKUS SCHULTE-LÜNZUM: Good question: I think the course in Albstadt is extremely physically demanding, especially when a fast World Cup is held there. The track in the quarry is something completely different: it requires very versatile riders. You can also be travelling at walking pace or even slower and still be right on the limit.
What makes the route in the quarry so challenging? The metres in altitude, the surface or something else?
Certainly the surface. But also the obstacles. What makes the whole event unique is the race format and the location. It's going to be cool!
Climbing, pushing, balancing: What skills are required apart from endurance?
Strength of will, general athleticism and a clean riding technique so that you don't have a defect.
Which of the obstacles do you find the most exciting?
I don't want to give too much away just yet: There will be some exciting and breathtaking obstacles. But don't worry: the obstacles are of course designed so that everyone can complete them.
