New endurance sport concept to Barcelona: Bike & Trail Challenge

Barcelona will host the debut of a new concept in endurance sports on June 6, 2026, as Endurance Horizon presents the first Bike & Trail Challenge, a hybrid event that combines road cycling and trail running in a single long-distance effort. The project is created in collaboration with Trek Bicycle BCN Sud, sports eyewear brand Tifosi Optics, and running footwear brand Notace, who contribute their technical expertise to the initiative.

In a context where cross-training is becoming more relevant for both cyclists and runners, the concept aims to offer a complete endurance experience built around adventure, performance, and a strong connection with the natural environment. As the organizer, Guillaume Audebert, founder of Endurance Horizon, explains: “We want to create an experience where cycling and trail running merge naturally, combining performance, adventure, and respect for the environment. Barcelona offers the perfect setting to launch this concept.”

The event takes place over a demanding course divided into three segments that combine elevation, technique, and endurance management. It starts with 40 km of road cycling with +500 m of elevation gain from Montjuïc to the Garraf Natural Park, including the climb of Rat Penat. The second segment is 20 km of trail running with +700 m of elevation gain, mixing fast sections and more technical terrain under typical Mediterranean heat conditions. The final part brings participants back to Barcelona with 80 km of road cycling and +700 m of elevation gain on an alternative return route. The challenge is designed for advanced amateur athletes, with estimated completion times between 8 and 14 hours of continuous effort.

The Bike & Trail Challenge arrives at a moment when the boundaries between endurance cycling and trail running continue to fade. Endurance Horizon promotes this hybrid approach as a way to improve athletic longevity, reduce overload from single-discipline training, and enhance the overall athlete experience.

Sustainability is a core part of the event design. Participants are expected to be largely self-sufficient, with aid stations limited to water and isotonic drinks. There will be no physical signage, with navigation handled via GPX track, and access to the trail segment will be done by bike to reduce emissions. The aim is to minimize the environmental footprint and preserve the natural surroundings of the Parc del Garraf.

The first edition in Barcelona also marks the beginning of a wider project. From 2027 onwards, Endurance Horizon plans to expand the format to new locations in France and Catalonia, and introduce different distances (S, L, and XL), with potential future variants including gravel segments.

The event will take place on June 6, 2026 in Barcelona, with a maximum of 49 participants.