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Silk Road Mountain Race 2026 (SRMR 2026) once again brings bikepackers from all over the world to Kyrgyzstan. It’s a fixed route, fully self-supported, and one long non-stop race where prizes don’t matter (there are none) — what counts is character, experience and a love of wild mountain landscapes. 

You’ve seen the photos: endless green valleys, snowy Tien Shan peaks and perfect gravel roads. But you’ve also read the forums. You’ve heard about the “washboard” that numbs your hands, angry shepherd dogs, border permits and how hard it is to find gas and a travel water filter on a Sunday morning in Bishkek.

Kyrgyzstan is not an amusement park. It’s real wilderness. That’s exactly why you are coming here.

As experts who prepare bikes for the Silk Road Mountain Race and for thousands of independent travellers, we at Freebike.kg have collected honest answers to what really worries you. No myths. Just facts.

Bikepacking in Kyrgyzstan: 5 of the Best Mountain Routes and Useful Practical Tips for an Unforgettable Ride

Why Choose Kyrgyzstan for a Cycling Adventure?

Kyrgyzstan is rapidly becoming a paradise for bikepackers, especially for those who crave adventure and wide open mountain spaces. About 80% of the country is covered by the mighty ranges of the Tien Shan and the Pamir-Alay, so it’s no surprise that most routes here go over passes: finding a road below 3,000 m above sea level is rare. At the same time, the country is full of gravel roads and high mountain passes, which makes it possible to plan routes of any difficulty — from relatively moderate to truly demanding. Be ready for long climbs and thrilling descents: Kyrgyzstan feels like it was made for riders who want to challenge themselves and enjoy raw mountain nature.

Beyond the landscapes, travelers are won over by the hospitality of local people. Many cyclists say that from the very first days they feel real freedom and kindness here. Daily handshakes, greetings and smiles from herders and villagers turn the trip into not only a sports adventure but also a meaningful cultural experience. In the mountains you may be invited into a yurt for tea or kumis — moments like these stay in memory no less than the views.