What is the Great Bifurkade?
The Grande Bifurkade is an ultra-long-distance cycling format, without assistance, on small, lost roads and paths, which cross the Vosges massif and its surroundings.
This is not a competition, there will be no ranking, no timing.
The goal is to share a journey together that is as beautiful as it is challenging. Some will want to finish the course as quickly as possible, while others will simply try to complete it.
When and where does the event take place?
The event will take place in the Munster Valley, in Alsace.
The starting and finishing point will be Metzeral or Sondernach, the information will be confirmed as soon as possible.
The Great Bifurkade will be launched on Saturday, August 15, 2026 early in the morning and will end on Monday, August 17 in the evening; official times will be communicated as soon as possible.
How do I get to the starting point?
Located in the heart of the Munster Valley, in the Haut-Rhin, the town of Metzeral is easily accessible by various means of transport.
By car
Metzeral is accessible from Colmar via the D417, towards Munster and then the Fecht Valley. The journey from Colmar takes approximately 30 minutes. From Strasbourg or Mulhouse, it is advisable to take the A35 motorway to Colmar, then follow the D417 to Metzeral.
By train
Metzeral is served by the TER Alsace line between Colmar, Munster, and Metzeral. Trains run regularly from Colmar station, with a journey time of approximately 40 minutes. Metzeral station is located near the village center.
By plane
The nearest airport is EuroAirport Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg, located approximately 75 km away. From the airport, it is possible to reach Colmar by car or train, and then continue on to Metzeral. Strasbourg-Entzheim Airport is another option, approximately 120 km away.
Is there an official route to follow?
The two official routes will be communicated to you about two weeks before departure, one for the 300km route and the other for the 600km route.
If you decide to leave the trail at any point (bivouac, accommodation, resupply, etc.) you will have to resume exactly where you left the trail.
What is included in the registration?
The registration fee includes: event organization, a checkpoint map, a GPS tracker (live tracking), the GPX track, a welcome drink during the briefing evening, breakfast before departure, a finisher's pack full of surprises, and a beer at the finish to celebrate this great adventure! And of course, souvenir photos!
Is there any assistance available?
No, there is no official assistance from the organization. Only the GPS tracker allows you to trigger an alert in case of an emergency. Standard emergency services can be reached by dialing 15 for ambulance or 18 for the fire department.
Am I insured in case of an accident?
No, the organization does not provide insurance as this is a self-supported event.
You are required to have your own personal liability insurance and a valid medical certificate. These documents will be requested during the online registration process.
What happens if I decide to stop?
This is a self-supported adventure, meaning you are responsible for arranging your own return. If you withdraw, you must return the GPS tracker to the organizers upon arrival or, at the latest, by mail two days after the official end of the event. Any tracker not returned on time will be charged.
What should I do if I have a mechanical problem?
You need to have the basic materials necessary to repair it yourself.
If you can't repair it yourself, try to find help nearby or find a bike shop. We recommend you have at least: a multi-tool, a puncture repair kit, and a can of puncture sealant.
Where can I get water and food?
The routes will be dotted with grocery stores, bakeries, restaurants, and fast food outlets for regular resupply. We recommend that you always carry enough food for at least half a day and sufficient water (approximately 1.5 liters).
What type of bike do I need?
We recommend a gravel bike equipped with 40mm tires, or 45mm for added comfort. E-bikes are not permitted.
What equipment is essential for departure?
1 helmet, 1 GPS, 1 reflective vest, 1 front light, 1 rear light, 1 sound system, 1 survival blanket and of course a bicycle with a braking system in good condition.
How is communication organized before and during the event?
A Whatsapp group with all participants will be created prior to the event.
It will be used to communicate with the organization, between participants, and to validate selfie checkpoints.
How do checkpoints work?
At the two physical checkpoints, your card will be stamped. Outside of opening hours, the stamp can be replaced by a selfie sent to the dedicated WhatsApp group. The other checkpoints will be selfie checkpoints.