The 6th edition of the Swiss Bike Adventure began not with sunshine and celebration – but with a storm.
Three days of relentless rain and unseasonably cold July temperatures were forecasted. Even the high mountain passes, usually clear this time of year, braced for wintry conditions. In all five previous editions, the weather had never been this brutal. This year is different. This year is for the truly fearless.
By Friday evening, less than half of the registered riders arrived in Andermatt. The storm had already begun to shape the race, testing resolve before a single pedal stroke. Yet those who came were undeterred. Over dinner, stories of past adventures mixed with quiet anticipation for what lay ahead. There was laughter, there was camaraderie – but also the quiet acknowledgment: this year would be a battle.
At 6 a.m. sharp, under dark skies and falling rain, the adventure began.
With 1,290 kilometers and 24,743 meters of elevation gain ahead – including 13 legendary climbs – this is not a ride for the faint-hearted. But those who lined up at the start did so with steely eyes and stubborn smiles. They knew what awaited. And they rode into it anyway.
The mountains are calling – and the true adventure has begun.
Follow the riders:
https://swiss-bikeadventure.com/tracking-2025/
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