June 20, 2025 Text: Birken Photo: Emil S Nyeng

Saturday, August 30, 2025 – It’s on!
SykkelBirken is back with races and distances for everyone – whether you’re chasing a new personal best, looking for an unforgettable ride across the mountains, or just want to share a memorable weekend with great people.

Interest is already high – especially for HalvBirken, which is growing fast. It’s become the perfect race for groups of friends, colleagues, and anyone who wants to experience the unique Birken vibe on a slightly shorter course.

Choose your race – and the right bike
SykkelBirken offers a variety of events – there’s something for everyone:

• Birkebeinerrittet 84 km – the classic ride across the mountains. Open for MTB, e-bike and tandem. The improved course from 2023 will be continued in 2025.

• HalvBirken 41 km – ideal if you’re looking for a shorter ride. Great for all levels and especially well-suited for groups.

• UltraBirken – for trail riders who want it rough and raw. The course has been published – [see map here]. Many ask how much of it is on trail – that answer is coming!

• GravelBirken 100 / 200 km – Only 180 spots left! Secure your place in the very first edition of this historic gravel race. [See route details here].

Important!
There are no longer categories for AllRoad or drop bars in Birkebeinerrittet or UltraBirken. If you're riding a gravel bike, GravelBirken is your race. Read more in the race rules [here].

Red Bull Sprint at Storåsen
A new highlight on the course! Red Bull rewards the fastest climb up the Storåsen hill – 100 meters of all-out effort. Prize: NOK 10,000 to the fastest woman and man! The gate is up – and a photographer will be there to capture the action.

AfterBike – enjoy the atmosphere after the finish line

Crossing the finish line at Håkons Hall doesn’t mean the experience is over. Outside the arena, the celebration continues with AfterBike – a lively social area for both riders and supporters.

There will be grilled food, music, prize ceremonies on stage – and last but not least: a sparkling bar serving drinks to toast your efforts. You’ll also find a wide selection of stands from partners and exhibitors, including:

• Scott

• Subaru

• Shimano Nordic

• Wintersteiger

• SpareBank 1 Gudbrandsdal

• Kondis

• Beauty Bozza

Inside Håkons Hall:
Don’t miss the Sport 1 market – 1500 m² packed with sportswear, shoes, and gear at great prices, for both participants and spectators.

Need to change clothes, shower, or pick up your diploma? It’s all available in Håkons Hall. This is the day to celebrate both your performance and the community around it!

Barne- og UngdomsBirken Sykkel

On Friday, August 29, BarneBirken Sykkel takes place – with races for children in both Rena and Lillehammer.
UngdomsBirken, for youth participants, will be held on Saturday, August 30 in Lillehammer.

Extra excitement on Friday in Rena:
In collaboration with Åmot Municipality and Green Cycling, 4th graders from Rena Elementary School are invited to a cycling day ahead of the race. That same day, there will be fun activities in the town square: Green Cycling is setting up a playful obstacle course and helping kids prepare both bike and body for the start.
Scott will also be on-site offering bike safety checks for all kids who want one!

In Lillehammer, BarneBirken is on Friday and UngdomsBirken on Saturday. The courses have been improved from last year and are now even better adapted to different age groups – giving both younger and older kids a true taste of the Birken experience.

We have two lucky winners!

Everyone who signed up before June 1st was entered into the draw for two Scott Speedster Gravel 40 bikes.
Congratulations to:
Eldar Høidal and Ingrid Evensen