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On the Ground With the Rift MTB: Iceland’s New Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race

The Rift MTB Stage race Iceland
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For most, Iceland doesn’t sound like the mountain bike destination on par with the heavy hitters of the world. Most seek out Moab in the USA, Queenstown or Central Otago in New Zealand, and of course, the final boss of destination mountain biking, Whistler, British Columbia. 

Rift MTB stage race Iceland Visit Northern Iceland
Photo: Visit Northern Iceland

Destination: Akureyri

However, the more time we’ve spent in Iceland over the years, one place in particular is starting to rise to the top: Akureyri in North Iceland. This region is lush with mountain climbs, impressively technical terrain, and even a bike park. So, it was the perfect canvas for Iceland’s first mountain bike stage race, Rift MTB presented by Lauf 

Rift MTB stage race Iceland Course
Photo: Jordan Villella

Thought the Rift was a gravel race? Well, you’re right, the Rift now comes in two flavors, Rift Gravel one-day race (hosted in July) and Rift MTB Stage Race (hosted in late Aug). Both offer a unique Icelandic twist on the subject matter, but the vibe is still the same.  

The Rift MTB comes exactly one year after Lauf launched its very first mountain bike, the Lauf Elja. The new bike is a mix of cross-country and enduro, perfect for the terrain of the Rift. We loved the Elij, you can read our thoughts here. 

Rift MTB stage race Iceland Berger Riding
Photo: Antoine Daures

What Is the Rift MTB? 

Iceland’s dramatic landscapes (lava fields, volcanic ridges, rivers, and highland trails) are the setting for one of the most unique mountain bike experiences on the planet: The Rift MTB. Combining multi-stage racing with Iceland’s raw, untouched terrain, this event will challenge riders with technical trails, long endurance stages, and a truly otherworldly backdrop. The hardest choice on some stages will be whether to keep pedaling or stop for a photo.

Rift MTB stage race Iceland
Photo: Antoine Daures

Designed as a stage race, The Rift MTB takes riders through the heart of North Iceland National Park, the volcanic highlands, and along rugged fjords, blending cross-country and enduro-style riding. Each stage is fully supported, with logistics, timing, and course marshals handled to ensure riders can focus on pushing their limits.

Rift MTB stage race Iceland Elja
Photo: Antoine Daures

Rift MTB: Stages & Terrain

Stage 1 – The Highlands

  • Distance: 38 km
  • Terrain: Flowing singletrack, volcanic rock gardens, gravel climbs, and fast descents across tectonic rift valleys.
  • Features: Technical rock slabs, loose volcanic scree, panoramic views over rift valleys.

Stage 2 – Lava Fields Enduro

  • Distance: 42 km
  • Terrain: Fast enduro-style descents through hardened lava flows, technical root and rock sections, and high-speed gravel stretches.
  • Features: Natural jumps, jagged rock gardens, and abrupt transitions from soft sand to hard rock.

Stage 3 – Highland Climb & Desert Loops

  • Distance: 59 km
  • Terrain: Long endurance climbs across highland plateaus, gravel fire roads, and river crossings.
  • Features: Stunning volcanic landscapes, exposed trails, and demanding fitness sections that test both climbing and bike-handling skills.

Stage 4 – Fjord Finish

  • Distance: 72 km
  • Terrain: Mixed singletrack and doubletrack along fjord coastlines, including technical descent sections, fast flats, and occasional beach sand stretches.
  • Features: Coastal winds, scenic vistas, and technical rock gardens to close out the event.

Stage 5 – The Rift Finale (aka: hot springs day)

  • Distance: 63 km
  • Terrain: The ultimate Icelandic challenge: volcanic ridges, glacial rivers, and high-speed gravel flats.
  • Features: Combination of XC endurance and enduro descents; perfect for riders wanting the whole Rift experience.
Rift MTB stage race Iceland Jordan Jump
Photo: Antoine Daures

Race Format & Categories

  • Stage Race: Daily timed stages with cumulative timing for general classification.
  • Distance Options: Full race (all stages), short race (select stages), and epic challenge for recreational riders.
  • Categories: Pro Men, Pro Women, Expert, Sport, and Masters. Solo and team options available.

Not Your Typical XC Race

The Rift MTB isn’t just a race—it’s a true Icelandic adventure. Riders will tackle terrain unlike anything in Europe or North America, with a combination of technical singletrack, rugged volcanic landscapes, and endurance-testing highland loops. Each stage tests skill, stamina, and resilience, while the scenery should make every pedal stroke unforgettable.

Rift MTB stage race Iceland Jordan Elja Launch
Photo: Antoine Daures

Follow BikeRumor At The Rift 

Both Ryan Popple and I will be tackling the Rift MTB for BikeRumor this week. Make sure to check the Bikerumor Instagram for behind-the-scenes details, bike profiles, and Northern Icelandic views. Wish us luck, the course is not for the faint-hearted (it’s basically an enduro race), but the views make up for the wild climbs. 

What are we most excited about? Riding over the Lava fields on Stage 4, the surreal views, and ending the final stage at the iconic hot springs of Skógarböð.

For full stage maps, registration, and technical info, check out: theriftmtb.bike.

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