It’s my second time riding the Atlas Mountain Race since its inaugural edition in 2020. This is also the first time the route has changed significantly! But the course isn’t the only thing that’s different this time around. Speeds have increased on a wild trajectory, setups look very different, and you won’t see nearly as many gravel bikes at the start line anymore.
For me, it has also been a period of immense change. I am riding different bikes, have access to high-end materials, and I have progressed significantly in how I ride and train.
Dotwatching for this year’s edition—from Beni Mellal to Essaouira—will start soon. I’m excited to get going and perform my best against a very strong field. You can dotwatch the event here.
My Cervélo ZFS-5 Full-Suspension Mountain Bike
These frames are unfortunately very rare and I haven’t used one in an ultra-race until now. It’s finally time! I built the bike up as a dropbar MTB using the new Cervélo HB16 gravel cockpit, extension mounts, and aero bars. To make the geometry work, I had to tinker with my saddle position; I found the DROP BEST UC tool from the team at Fair Bicycle in Switzerland (Thx for the tip Terry!), which allowed me to move 3cm forward. Now the reach is perfect, allowing me to maintain my normal position without a ridiculous stem.
Components:
- Drivetrain: SRAM X0 Transmission rear derailleur with a 10-52t cassette
- Crankset: SRAM XX1 Powermeter Crank (32t)
- Brakes: SRAM Force E1 shifters paired with Level 4-piston calipers
- Wheels: Reserve 28|XC wheels, front custom-laced to a SON 28 dynamo hub
- Tires: MAXXIS Aspen and Aspen ST (2.35”)
- Saddle: Posedla Joyseat ULTRA (custom 3D printed)
- Lighting: Full kLite Ultra Race system with dynamo USB charger and rear light
- Backup Lights: BBB Cycling Signal 800 (rear) and Adventure Strike 600 (helmet)
- Lube & Sealant: Silca Super Secret waxed chain and Ultimate tire sealant
- Cockpit: ZIPP Vuka aero bars and SRAM Blips
Bag Setup
For the first time, I’m rocking the flashy white prototype bags by Tailfin Cycling. I wanted the setup to be as clean as possible, and I am very happy with the result.
- Tailfin Speedpack with carbon arch
- Tailfin long top tube bag
- Custom prototype full-suspension MTB frame bag
- Ultimate Direction trail running vest with 2L hydration system and 2x 500ml soft flasks
Sleep Setup
My sleep setup is my last resort and security anchor. If things go south, my bivvy is my shelter. It allows me to go fairly light while maintaining peace of mind. I’m using my trusty Outdoor Research Helium Bivvy, a Sea to Summit UL mattress, and a Spark III sleeping bag (I can’t sleep cold!).
Clothing & Gear
I am supported by the amazing people at 7mesh. They are a Canadian company producing everything a competitive adventure cyclist could wish for. Nearly all my gear comes from them:
- 7mesh MK3 Cargo Bib shorts
- 7mesh Ashlu Merino sleeveless baselayer
- 7mesh Pace Aero jersey
- 7mesh S2S reflective vest
- 7mesh Oro rain jacket & Guardian rain pants
- 7mesh Freeflow Polartec insulated jacket
- 7mesh arm and leg warmers + Merino neck warmer
- Socks: 2x Quoc Merino, 1x SILCA Aero
- Gloves: Arc'teryx Windstopper insulated gloves, insulated mittens, and Salomon waterproof mittens
- Headwear: Arc'teryx Merino beanie and KASK Elemento aero helmet
- Eyewear: Alba Optics DELTA with photochromic lenses
- Shoes: QUOC GT XC shoes with Silca Titanium Cleats
Spares, Tools, & Electronics
I am going fairly lightweight, as modern bikes fortunately require fewer spares! Electronics are also becoming more packable (thanks to EU USB-C regulations). Let’s hope I’m not struck by disaster!
- Tools: Wolf Tooth Encase multitool, Robert Axle Project tubeless plug tool (integrated into the front thru-axle)
- Spares: 2x SILCA TPU tubes + patches, 2x SRAM sintered brake pads, 2x SRAM Transmission chain links, SILCA Gravelero pump, and Super Secret drip wax
- Hygiene/Meds: Posedla Happy Butt Balm, toothbrush, sunscreen, and emergency meds (Ibuprofen, Imodium, Buscopan, Caffeine)
- Waterfilter: LifeStraw Squeeze 0.5L
- Power: 4-port quick charger, 2x USB-C cables, 1x Apple Lightning cable (oh well...), 3x SRAM AXS batteries + charger, 4x AAA, and 2x CR2032
- Devices: iPhone 13 Pro, COROS DURA bike computer, COROS HRM
- Extras: KODAK Ektar H35 film camera
Quite the list! But I managed to pack it all. Wish me luck in progressing fast toward the finish line. The weather isn't exactly playing along—heavy snow in the mountains and rain ending a seven-year drought mean course changes are likely. However, I’m looking forward to getting started.
A little spoiler: This will be the first of four mountain races I am tackling this year. They call it the FULL NELSON. ;)
