About

Mountain biking is the ultimate way to get to new locations, explore new trails and to experience life on a different pace. For the past ten years, Madeira, a Portuguese Island located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean has been carving its way to become one of the best mountain bike destinations in the planet! Big mountains, beautiful landscapes, delicious food, warm weather all year round and over 600 years of history and culture makes Madeira the ultimate adventure and a reason to be on your bucket list for the years to come! Combine all of this with some of the most challenging and unique mountain bike trails and you got yourself a race and a ride to remember.

Going back in time, we’ve been organizing enduro races for the past eight years on the island and we organize mountain bike holidays all year round. We’ve worked with some of the most charismatic riders, filmmakers and photographers in the industry, which has helped us to put a much deserved quality stamp on how good is to ride in Madeira, helping us to share our passion, trails and costumes with riders from all around the World!

The race

Trans Madeira powered by Cannondale combines the best things the island has to offer with five days of racing in the World’s most diverse terrain, exploring all four corners of the island, starting high in the mountains and finishing down at the ocean. The sixth edition is set to happen from 31st May to 4th June 2022, known as Summer Edition and we’re proud to announce an extra edition taking place from 20th to 24th September 2022, known as Autumn Edition! Get ready for 220km of riding, 30 special stages, exploring North, South, East and West in one mega week! Expect to ride different kinds of terrain from stage to stage, explore some of the most iconic singletracks on the island in a bike camp adventure style race, stress-free!

Testimonials

"Such an amazing adventure exploring and racing Madeira. In my opinion one of the best mountain bike races I have ever done. Great atmosphere and amazing tracks! This island has it all, from world class downhill tracks, flowy single track and alpine grass flat out super fast sections to enjoy. In my opinion it does offer the best all round riding in the world!"

Brendan Fairclough (GBR)

"The best trail ever! I’ve never experienced the loam like this!"

Yoann Barelli (CAN)

"On day four we rode again another type of terrain: wet jungle in the morning and fast and flowy in the afternoon! All what a mountain biker needs to be happy!"

Ludo May (SUI)

"We saw everything from dry and dusty to greasy and rowdy, to high speed amongst the clouds. One thing for sure, mundane would be nowhere to be found. Top it off with a swim in the ocean with your new riding buddies and you’ve got an ace day!"

Noel Bolso (CAN)

"I didn’t know what to expect but after a week of wild, rocky, wet, dusty racing in Madeira I wasn’t disappointed! Organization behind the race worked so well that it was hard to understand that it was the first edition of the race! This was my first time in Madeira but definitely not my last"

Mette Kronborg (DNK)

"The organization was seamless and I think that everyone felt your enthusiasm you share for the island, the trails and mountain biking!"

Andreas Rothlisberger (SUI)

"I can´t stop telling you what a great show you did the last week. It was amazing! For sure one oft he best memorys in my life!"

Stephan Koch (GER)

"Thank you guys for this incredible experience! It was a blast and simply unforgettable!"

Julian Eitner (SUI)

"Crazy days in Madeira! Rad trails, epic transitions and tired body but all worth it for one of the best days out on the bike"

Steve Peat (GBR)

"Racing Trans Madeira makes me feel like a tourist in the island where I was born. Magic and brutal at same time!"

Emanuel Pombo (POR)

"There was such a good mixture of tracks, from wet to dusty, physical to technical! You can go all out!"

Daniel Prijkel (NED)

"Trans Madeira was an absolute blast! It was a beautiful experience to live, and an amazing way to discover this wonderful island. You guys really are such friendly, happy and genuine people! Portugal and Madeira can be very proud of you, we are all leaving with a bunch of rad memories and with a big smile on our faces!"

Yoann Barelli (CAN)

Autumn 2021 results

Click here to open +

MEN
1	Mitch Ropelato	2:18:51
2	Matthias Stonig	2:22:02
3	Adrien Loron	2:25:01
WOMEN
1	Éilis Davey	3:09:28
2	Lizzie Waterhouse	3:17:01
3	Inne Gantois	3:17:11
M30
1	Gerd Skant	2:23:51
2	Will Ward	2:34:46
3	David Valler	2:37:49
M40
1	Leo Kokkonen	2:30:51
2	Cri Maierhofer	2:33:04
3	Neal Russell	2:46:13
Click here for final results

Results archive +

Trans Madeira Routine

You will be riding in four different locations and racing in different kinds of terrain every single day! Adapt quickly or simply forget that perfect tire pressure, it doesn’t exist! For a typical Trans Madeira day, you can expect this kind of routine: wake up, reinforced breakfast, shuttle to the top, four to seven special stages, finish the day with free beer and snack at sea level altitude, check your results. Wash your bike, go for a swim, take a shower, chill, dinner, and attend briefing, sleep! The adventure of racing in Madeira will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions, new friendships and moments that last a lifetime.

+ QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) + CLOSE

REGISTRATION

I want to race the event with a couple of friends. Is that possible?
Yes! During registration there’s a field on the second form where you can add the name of your friends. This will help us to assign you together. Keep in mind that each one of you needs to fill up a form individually when registration opens.
What’s the registration criteria?
Be fast to secure a spot! Simple. Registration opens on the 1st November, 10:00 (GMT)! We recommend you to read Registration Process and Terms and Conditions before moving forward with your registration.

CAMP AND LOGISTICS

What do i need to pack for the race?
It’s essential to bring a sleeping bag (average temperature June in Madeira is 21ºC), headlight, rain jacket, backpack, and multi-tool. We recommend you to bring specific parts for your bike and spares.
How much luggage should I bring?
One travel bag per person – ideally a large 23kg duffel bag!
Where are the bike camps located and what are the conditions?
There will be four different bike camps, all located at low altitude. You’ll have access to showers, power supply, toilets and basic camp conditions. Keep in mind that you’re not staying in a hotel and camping is part of the adventure and experience.
Where do we spend our last night?
For 2022, after five days of camping you’ll arrive to the far West side of the island and sleep in a five stars hotel, Saccharum – included in your race fee. Only double rooms available, which means that if you’re racing with a friend you should stay together. If you're racing alone you'll be assigned with others racers. If you’re looking for a single-room you’ll have to book it separately and contact the hotel.
Will I be able to charge my electronic devices?
We have a movable charging station available at camps where you’ll be able to charge your phones, cameras, gps, etc. Space is limited and we can’t guarantee a charging spot for you. We recommend you to bring a heavy-duty power bank so that you can charge your devices along the race week.
Will I have access to my bike box during the race?
No! You will only have access to your bike box on registration day (till 22:00h) and then when you arrive to the finish line hotel.
What if I need to travel back to my country or need to access my bike box before the last night?
In this case you’ll need to make your own arrangements to get your bike box and move to the airport.
How many meals we have per day?
We have planned four meals per day, which includes breakfast, lunch, snack at camp and dinner. There are food zones along the course to keep your energy up!
I’m vegetarian or have food intolerance. Is there a meal plan for these situations?
Yes! Our kitchen staff will work their way to adapt to your needs. Although we’ll do our best to fit your dietary requirements, riders with specific food intolerances should make their own preparations in advance.

RACING

How many hours will I spend on the bike per day?
There are days that will be harder than others but expect between 4 to 8 hours on the bike each day. Anticipate hike-a-bike sections, a couple long pedalling and steep transitions, some long and technical descents. Take this race seriously as it will be a hard but rewarding journey!
Are E-bikes allowed on this race
No. You can’t race this event with an E-bike.
Can I skip a day of racing?
Yes. You can skip a day of racing but you won’t have race results for that day or total race time at the end of the five days.
How does timing work?
You’ll be assigned a timing chip from Sportident - included in your registration fee – using the same Enduro World Series system to time your special stages. If you loose your timing chip we’ll be able to assign you a new one but you’ll need to pay the lost timing chip.
Are there cut-off times?
For safety reasons we may have cut-off times on certain points of the route but there are no liaison times. Overall it’s a very relaxed race where you can ride along with your buddies and enjoy every bit!
What sort of weather should I expect?
There’s no easy answer for this so be prepared for a bit of everything. Madeira is known to have four seasons in one day... and you can get cold at the top and blazing sun at the bottom or the reverse!
How physical and technical is this event?
You’ll be riding from 30km to 50km per day, which includes special stages and liaisons. You should have a good mountain biking background so that you can enjoy the riding and the adventure the best way possible! After you get your registration confirmed you have six months to get fit and ready.
Are there mechanics at camps?
Yes! We work with local bike shops and mechanics that can provide a wide range of services to make your experience better! Charges and fees not included.

TRAVEL

Which airport should I travel to?
Funchal Airport (FNC). We recommend you to make a reservation for your bike traveling as soon you book your flight.
What about timings for arrival and departure?
According to our experience we recommend you to arrive at least one day before registration day so that you can have an extra day to play with if there’s a situation of flight delays. For Summer Edition registration day will be on the 30th of May so your arrival should ideally be on the 29th May and departure on the 5th June. For Autumn Edition registration day will on the 19th September so your arrival should ideally be on the 18th September and departure on the 25th September.

SAFETY

What’s the safety plan on course and camps?
We have a medical crew that pretty much follows the event, starting from breakfast and staying until dinner. This team of nurses and doctors can make evaluations during the race so that you feel safe in moving forward or giving up. If you need treatment they’ll follow up your case from one day to the other. For the past couple years and based in our experience in organizing Enduro World Series, we’ve been working closely with our civil protection entities on the island, which means that we get ambulances following up the event or in direct call. Rescue teams are aware of the event and ready to jump on in any situation. On trails we have our staff that makes the connection with our race director that then coordinates all safety procedures with the official entities on the island and with our own medical team.
What about personal accident insurance?
We can provide personal accident insurance for this event as an extra for your entry fee. This can be purchased until three days before registration day.
What if I need to get to the hospital, how do I get back to camp?
Our safety crew will activate a rescue plan to transport you to the hospital where you will be asked for your personal accident insurance and ID. After your hospital visit, if you plan to come back to follow the event or race, you’re responsible for that transportation to camp. We’ll provide you with exact location for each night.
What if I get hurt during the race but don’t mind staying in Madeira till last night?
If you get hurt and decide to step out of the race we’ll transport you, your bike and baggage to the next bike camp until the last one. We’ll do our best to adapt to your needs and make sure you have a good time.

Have any other questions? Send us an email!
[email protected]

What to expect

An average of 2800m descent and 900m ascent per day, between 4 to 7 special stages per day. There will be some days with shuttle assistance so that you can cover much more trails and enjoy the riding. Be aware that this is a mountain bike race! You’ll race over 30 special stages in some of the most iconic locations of Madeira and share those trails with some of the fastest racers on the planet! Madeira is known to have the World’s most diverse terrain, which will make you feel you’re riding on a different country on every special stage!

There’s only one race package available to 140 riders per edition that includes everything from the moment you land on the island. We pretty much take care of you for one week! As bike holidays experts we will offer you an experience of Madeira like no other, making this an adventure to remember and meaning you don’t need to worry about anything else. Just ride your bike, eat great food and meet new buddies!

SIX NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION

Five nights tent and one night in a five stars hotel

FOUR MEALS PER DAY

Breakfast, food-zones, after race snack and dinner

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Arrival and departure from FNC Airport

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

A medic team following the race and bike camps

MEDIA CONTENT

Access to photos produced during the event

ALL LOGISTICS

Baggage, bike box transportation and shuttles

EVENT SWAG

Gifts from our sponsors and from the event

PRO TIMING

Timing chip and end of the day results available

And more!

Custom number plate
Event jersey
Access to food zones on each race day
Access to professional sports massage
Free local and traditional drinks (on certain days!)
Access to bike wash products facilities
Access to professional mechanic at bike camps
Access to results on location and online
Directly contributing to our year round trail building +info
Two beers per day – after downloading timing chip!
Access to charging area
Friendly staff at camps and trails making sure you have a super experience!
A mega adventure that will re-define everything you know about mountain biking!

Package value: 1790 €

Registrations open 1st November, 10:00 (GMT)

You’ll be able to choose which event you want to race

UPGRADES AVAILABLE AT THE REGISTRATION FORMS

Tent Upgrade, Personal Accident Insurance, Extra Number Plate, Extra Jersey and Trip-Cancellation Insurance

Click here to see what’s included in detail

31st May to 4th June 2022 // SUMMER EDITION - (SE)

20th to 24th September 2022 // AUTUMN EDITION - (AE)

ACCOMMODATION: From 30th of May to 4th of June (SE) / 19th of September to 24th September (AE) you’ll be sleeping on the event bike camps, which means you’ll be staying on an individual tent. You’ll also have a thick sleeping mat. All you have to bring is your sleeping bag and pillow. From 4th to 5th of June (SE) / 24th to 25th September (AE) you’ll be sleeping on a five stars hotel located on the West side of Madeira – double rooms only. If you’re racing with a friend, husband, wife or family member we’ll make arrangements to make sure you stay together. If you’re racing alone we’ll assign rooms with other fellow racers. No individual rooms available from organizers but you can contact hotel and pay for it.

FOOD: Four meals included in your race package. There will be breakfast every day before race starts, followed by access to food zones along the course. Once you arrive back to camp, there’s a snack (burger, hot-dog, salad…) so that you can refuel before dinner. Last, but not least, dinner – where you can have a taste of what Madeira is all about!

AIRPORT TRANSFERS AND PICK-UPS: We recommend you to arrive to Funchal Airport (FNC) before 30th of May (SE) or before 19th September (AE). If you can only arrive on the 30th of May (SE) or 19th September (AE), plan to land before 15:00h in order to have time to get your bike ready, register, find your tent, attend briefing, have dinner and relax! If you arrive on the 30th of May (SE) or 19th September (AE) your transfer will be directly to first bike camp in Machico.
If you decide to arrive earlier than 30th of May (SE) or 19th September (AE) you'll need to book your accommodation and extra transfers. We recommend you to stay in Funchal - main city – or Machico – where the race starts. We offer two different pick-up locations in Funchal and you should book your accommodation near it – walking distance. Check the links below:

Location A: Duas Torres
Location B: Freeride Madeira Shop

For departures, you should schedule flights for the 5th of June (SE) or 25th September (AE) – we recommend departure to be after 09:00h – no problem if it’s before this timing. If you decide to leave after that date we’ll transport you to one of the locations above or airport. After that you'll have to book your own accommodation and airport transfers.
NOTE: extra transfers should be booked directly with Freeride Madeira – [email protected]

LOGISTICS: Your bag will be transported to each new bike camp area. You will only have access to your bike bag on the first day and on the last day. Make sure you have everything you need for the race with you!

FOOD ZONES: During race days, there will be one or two food zones where you can re-fuel energy for the rest of the adventure. Fresh water, nuts, fruit, honey cake, gums, juices, peanuts, chips, cookies, bread, sandwiches and more.

MECHANICS: There will be a professional mechanical team on bike camps and also along the route. Their services and parts are paid separately.

CHARGING AREA: You’ll be able to charge your phone, cameras and gadgets on all bike camps. We recommend you to bring a heavy-duty power bank so that you can charge your gear on your tent.

EXTRAS

TRIP-CANCELATION INSURANCE: We highly recommend you to purchase a trip cancelation insurance, which allows you to cancel your entry and get a full refund (except for this fee) until three days before the event. You’ll be able to cancel your entry for any reason. Price: 150€

PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE: : Every rider needs to have a personal accident insurance that covers all five days of racing. Get all details about it via email. Price: 100€

TENT UPGRADE: Get extra space for your race week! Instead of staying on a two-person tent, get a three-person tent. Only 5 slots available. More details via email. Price: 250€

EXTRA JERSEY: You’ll get a free Trans Madeira jersey on registration day but you can add one more in advance and get it at registration day. Price: 40€

EXTRA NUMBER PLATE: Sometimes your number plate gets damaged during the event and you want to take home a souvenir. Get an extra number plate on registration day. Price: 10€

Registrations

Registration opens on the 1st November, 10:00 (GMT) and closes when there are no more spots available or in the end of the December. The selection criteria is: be fast to secure a spot! After this process you’ll receive an email confirming your registration – this doesn’t mean you got a spot. Please read Registration Process and Terms and Conditions before moving forward with your registration.

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