Back By Four is a new event format which calls not only for endurance and fitness but for teamwork and tactics.

First and foremost, it is a relay on foot and wheels - involving running and riding: Teams of two humans and one self-powered bike will tackle a set course of 50-60km and ticking off several checkpoints along the way, relaying running and riding at their discretion. Teammates can run/ride alongside each other in support or leapfrog each other by depositing the bike and catching up - however, the entire team (including the bike) must complete the entire course.

So far so good. As you can imagine, there’s a twist to the format: Here’s where the “Back By Four” comes in.

Teams can start at any time from 8am onward (that’s when we’ll be ready at HQ with coffee and snacks) - but the complete team must be back by 4pm. Arriving any time after 4pm (to be exact, when 4pm is over - so 4:01 or 16:01h) means outside of time limit and no classification. The last team to start and finish within the time limit wins.

At 4.15pm - when hopefully everyone is back - there’ll be an finish line party with tasty food and drinks!

Of course you can start early, finish early and spend the time waiting for the finish line party socializing and enjoying coffee and good times!

Read the rules closely and if you have any questions, reach out to us - use the button below.

The inaugural (2025) edition will take place on May 11th 2025.

RULES

1. Teams consist of two humans and one self-powered bike (no e-bike allowed and no luggage racks capable of carrying a person allowed)
2. All team members (including the bike) must complete a defined course (by either riding the bike or on foot) which will be communicated in due time (GPX file & Checkpoints) - length will be 50-60km of mixed terrain and including some hills
3. Teammates relay running and riding at their own discretion - however, the person starting on foot/running may not be the person crossing the finish line on foot/running => there must be at least one relay involved
4. All teammates must have their passage verified at the checkpoints along the course
5. Teams start (together) at any chosen time after 8am
6. The complete team must cross the finish line before 4pm sharp (4.00 pm / 16:00h). Failing to do so will result in disqualification (outside time limit OTL)
7. The clock (radio controlled) with the relevant time will be on display at the roastery. Teams will need to check and if necessary offset their watches before they start.
8. Teams may finish apart but the finishing time will be taken when the entire team (including the bike) has crossed the finish line
9. The last team to start and finish within the time limit wins