If you thought the Red Bull Romaniacs couldn’t get any more difficult then think again. The 2021 event, round two of the Hard Enduro World Championship on July 27-31, will see a Dakar-style marathon stage introduced, pitching riders into tents overnight.

The desire by the organisers of the Red Bull Romaniacs to bring a new twist to the plot each year seems to have no limits. If the tracks through the Carpathian Mountains and the five days of competition were not hard enough, now they have taken another step to make “the world’s toughest hard enduro rallye” even more extreme by incorporating a marathon stage.

Yes, you read that correctly, a marathon stage in Dakar Rally-style which means no tyre or mousse changing, fix your bike with the tools you carry and sleep in a tent.

“The idea of ​​a bivouac has always been around our minds and we all started planning it two years ago, now we can finally make it happen,” says Romaniacs Director, Martin Freinademetz.

“The nature of Romania is unique and it will surely be an unforgettable experience for the participants. There are no limits to how tough Red Bull Romaniacs can be! The drivers will have the opportunity to put their mechanical skills to the test, as well as a camping experience.”

Night off for family, friends and mechanics

The marathon stage will take place between the second and third day of the race and the riders, including those Pro boys, will have to carry out any repairs on their bikes with the tools they have in bum bags and backpacks.

The rules will also mean tyres and mousses cannot be changed overnight, although there is a slight relief in that you can change them at the service point each day – but you’ll have to employ ISDE levels of speed to get that job done in the time available.

What is provided at the marathon bivouac for all competitors?

  • Pasta meal on arrival
  • 'Marathon baggage holder' delivery to bivouac and return to competitor paddock
  • Overnight motorcycle security parking
  • Evening meal, breakfast, drinking water, shower & toilets facilities
  • Food court & beer bar.
  • Results viewing and results protest facilities
  • Administration / charging phones / GPS handout facilities
  • Medical facilities
  • Campfires and separate music playing location

In order to meet the needs of the riders, the organization will transport kit for the next day and everything they need to spend the night “in the middle of nature”.

Riders must provide their own tent, sleeping bag and mat for the night, but it is possible to rent equipment for €50 by sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. before June 15.