Erzberg Rodeo: Hard Enduro at Its Extreme

In the world of enduro, where riders are forged in brutal and punishing terrain, there is one competition that truly represents hell on two wheels. The Erzberg Rodeo is possibly the most difficult and exhausting one-day event for those who love off-road motorcycling.

Every year (except this one, which was suspended due to force majeure), a large group of brave riders gather in Austria, ready to challenge the harshest ground you can possibly imagine.

This hard enduro race normally takes place in late May or early June, depending on that year’s competition calendar. The setting? An old open-pit mine once used to extract iron ore.

Over four days, a series of qualifying events takes place, starting with 1,500 registered riders. By the final day, only 500 participants remain for the main race.

The course is only 35 km long, and competitors must finish it in under four hours. Sounds easy, right?

Nothing could be further from reality. In last year’s edition (the 25th anniversary in 2019), only 16 riders finished within the time limit. Usually, no more than 20 or 30 manage to complete the challenge at all. And the day’s weather conditions always add extra difficulty to an already brutally selective terrain.

In 2019, Laia Sanz made her debut in this race, aiming to become the first woman to finish within the official four-hour limit. Unfortunately, she could not achieve it, but she has promised to return as soon as the event resumes.

She herself stated that physical exhaustion was the key factor. Coming from an 18-time trial and enduro champion— one of the most fatigue-resistant riders in history— that tells you everything about what awaits anyone who dares to try.

The sections of the Erzberg Rodeo have legendary names: Three Kings, Machine, Carl’s Dinner, and Dynamite.

It is an endless succession of rocks, roots, mud, and insanely steep climbs. And if you add the day’s climate into the equation… it can become a truly unforgettable experience.

The most punishing section is Carl’s Dinner: rocks and more rocks of every possible size. A true torture for both the machine and the rider’s back.

Dynamite delivers its own brutality as well: a steep, rocky, slippery hillside— although it is also one of the most visually spectacular sections.

The first winner of the Erzberg Rodeo was Alfie Cox from South Africa, riding a KTM. In the last edition held (2019), the winner was Graham Jarvis from England on a Husqvarna.

Maybe you’re already thinking about entering one day. If you want to see what you’re really up against, watch this video. You’ll love it… or maybe not.