The race starts tonight. Basque Country to Almuñécar, fully self-supported. Here’s what matters.
Field notes from a Desertus Bikus finisher.
Sleep
— Use it as a weapon, not a weakness
— 3 to 5 hours per night keeps you moving
— Sleep before you’re exhausted — plan it like a resupply stop
Nutrition
— Two layers: active fuel in the top tube bag, reserve stocks in the frame bag
— Eat continuously – don’t wait for hunger
— The checkpoints are fixed. Everything between them is your call
— plan your route around resupply and water
— Know where your next resupply is before you need it
— Stick to food your stomach already knows
Water
— Long sections with nothing — always carry more than you think you need
Hygiene
— Chamois cream before every stage, no exceptions
— At every stop: out of your shorts, clean the contact areas, let the skin breathe
— First sign of redness → antibacterial cream immediately
— Sunscreen on arms, neck, hands before each stage
— Emergency kit: antibacterial cream, blister pads, sun cream, paracetamol, anti-inflammatoires, bandages
Safety
— Lights on at night, always
— Slow down on descents when tired — fatigue kills reaction time
— Emergency number in Spain should be in mind
Enjoy the ride
— The Desertus is one of the most beautiful routes in ultra-cycling
— Lift your head up sometimes — the landscapes are worth it
— You trained for this. Trust the preparation and enjoy every kilometre of it.
Ride long. Finish. Good luck.
Follow the journey on Instagram → @gravel_bikeandride📸📲