Facing the Silk Road Mountain Race is not just about racing: it’s a journey within. An unforgiving, fascinating and deeply transformative challenge. Thousands of kilometers through Kyrgyzstan’s wild mountains, where the terrain is relentless, the weather shifts in an instant and every pedal stroke is an act of pure endurance. In competition there’s no room for compromise. That’s why Nacho trusts the Selle SMP EVO20C: aggressive ergonomics, racing-oriented fit and unwavering support designed to deliver maximum power transfer, positional precision and lasting comfort. The ultimate ally to push beyond the limit.
A Journey Beyond Competition
Nacho didn’t choose this race to win. He chose it to live. To listen to himself. To discover how far the body and above all the mind can go.
“The SRMR is one of the toughest races in the world,” he says. “I wanted to prepare for the Iditarod Trail Invitational in Alaska and this was the perfect test for both mental and physical endurance.”
Within his Road to Iditarod project, Nacho alternates between extreme winter expeditions such as in Lapland and ultra-distance bikepacking races. Every kilometer is a stepping stone toward his ultimate goal: taking on Alaska.
Mental and Physical Preparation: The Real Training
“It’s been a tough year,” Nacho admits. “Training while balancing work and personal commitments isn’t easy.” But with the right support and his own mental training method, Nacho has learned to stay in the moment. Riding with no music, no distractions. Just him, the bike and the suffering.
The Goal? Reaching the Finish Line
For those who know the Silk Road Mountain Race, crossing the finish line is already a victory. As Nacho puts it: “I want to enjoy the journey: the landscapes, the culture, the people.”
The EVO20C Saddle: Comfort That Lasts for Thousands of Kilometers
In an adventure every detail matters and the Selle SMP EVO20C saddle made the difference.
“This year alone I’ve ridden nearly 10,000 km with this saddle,” Nacho shares. “It’s incredibly comfortable. The material adapts to your body and keeps its shape from the first to the last pedal stroke.”
For endurance riders, comfort is everything and the EVO20C is designed for those who live cycling as a lifestyle.
Tips for Getting Started with Ultra-Distance CyclingNacho is clear: “Enjoy what you do. You don’t need to race. You can ride to test your limits, to challenge yourself.” And if you decide to compete, then train. A lot. But first, live the experience.
Why Fall in Love with Ultracycling?
“Ultracycling has taken me to mental places I didn’t know existed,” Nacho explains. “It’s an inner journey. Every race is a new discovery of myself.” And then there’s the community: riders becoming friends, countries discovered by bike, cultures experienced kilometer after kilometer.
The Perfect Setup for the SRMR: 5 Must-Haves
It took Nacho five years to feel ready. Here’s what he considers essential for extreme bikepacking:
- Finding the right saddle: Selle SMP offers a saddle test program to help every rider find their perfect match
- Dynamo hub with charger and lights
- Sleep system (mattress, down sleeping bag, shelter)
- Technical waterproof and thermal apparel
- Drivetrain suited for rough terrain
- Waterproof bikepacking bags
One Word to Describe Endurance Cycling?
“Addiction.” Because it’s addictive. Because it changes you. Because once you start, you can’t stop.
Discover more about the EVO20C ergonomic bike saddle and how it can support you in your next adventure.
(Keywords included: ergonomic bike saddle, endurance cycling, Silk Road Mountain Race, extreme bikepacking, Selle SMP EVO20C, ultracycling, and adventure cycling).
