In just a few years, the Kitzbüheler Radmarathon (KRM) has developed into one of the top gran fondos in Europe. The route, scenery, and the quality of the organization are all top of the bill. I will be at the start for the second time this year. The CycloWorld team is complemented by Sven and guest rider Joppe.

Photo: at the start with guest rider Joppe

The route of the Kitzbüheler Radmarathon is 216 kilometers with 4600 meters of elevation. These are spread over five climbs, with the Kitzbüheler Horn as the final climb: 7.5 kilometers at an average of 12.5% and a maximum of 23%.

After three rainy editions, it's time for a sunny version. On Saturday, it is delightfully summery at the start number pickup. We are regularly recognized and have nice conversations with the many Dutch participants. The expo and the pasta party are atmospheric. The weather app predicts sun tomorrow with 28 degrees.

Sunday morning we will depart from the VIP section. At the start, among others, are the winners of the Ötztaler Radmarathon: Jack Burke and Janine Meyer. Ultra phenomenon Christoph Strasser is there, along with ex-pros Andy Schleck and Marcus Burghardt. At the stroke of 6:30, the starting gun goes off. After a short neutralization, there is an easy climb to Pass Thurn. Without much effort, I get to the top and dive into the fairly easy descent.

Photo: Gerlospass (Sportograf)

Extensive feed stations

Now begins a 30-kilometer stretch through the valley. In the belly of the pack, I don't do much. The Gerlos Pass is the next task. This one is irregular and has a moderate road surface. Sometimes sections are up to 15%, then flat again. It really is a piece of crap. Fortunately, I climb pretty well and arrive at the top reasonably fresh. Here is the extensive feed station with bars, gels, sports drinks, Red Bull, fruit, cookies, water, and salt. In the wide descent, the brakes can be released. I reach the Zillertal with a large group. The 20 kilometers downhill are interrupted twice by a closed railroad crossing. Nobody cares. In total, it takes at most three minutes; a good opportunity for a sanitary stop.

Photo: feed stations

Hors categorie

At the end of the valley, we ride up the Kerschbaumer Sattel. A farm road averaging 10.7% over 5 kilometers. It's ramming and struggling for everyone. At the top is the next feed station where my bike falls. Fortunately, everything still seems to be working. I ride on into the steep and tight descent. Ahead of me, someone barely manages to stay on his bike in a sharp turn.

Photo: Kerschbaumer Sattel

Below in the valley, the high quality of the KRM becomes clear: the towns of Brixlegg and Kramsach are busy with car traffic. However, the traffic controllers keep the cars at a perfect distance, so we can just pass safely. Also my group riding in the middle distance. You just have the feeling that the whole route is car-free. This is guidance of the highest category.

I discover that my fallen bike has damage after all; the chain rattles on the big ring. Fortunately, I am back in a climb: the double climb Pinegg/Brandenberg. Really another tricky one. The descent from Brandenberg is phenomenally beautiful: along rock walls and precipices. At the next feed station, there is a repair service. The bike mechanic adjusts the front derailleur; within two minutes it is fixed. Lovely!

Photo: repair service

Great views

With 60 kilometers to go, I catch a good group in the rolling countryside. With four of us, we ride to Kitzbühel. At the last feed station, just before the town, I reluctantly fill up. 208 kilometers are done, only the monster remains: the Kitzbüheler Horn. Those with bad legs can ride straight ahead and clock off in the city center. I ride left to the Horn.

Photo: gruesome view

The first few hundred meters are steep. Then comes a short flat stretch, the last opportunity to rest the legs. The view is horrific: an immense wall that riders are crawling up. Two years ago, I was stubborn and rode straight up. Now I decide to zigzag straight away. The road is wide and well paved; I get into a flow. After a few hundred meters, everyone realizes that riding straight is too much. Dozens of riders swagger across the road.

Photo: finish Alpenhaus

I struggle uphill and count down the hectometers. The bright sun has given way to a nice cloud cover. The conditions are perfect. I've had half, two-thirds, three-quarters.... With a kilometer to go, the horrific 23% stretch awaits. I consider myself lucky with my 6.5-kilogram, 34*34 S-Works Aethos. The finish at the Alpenhaus comes into sight, a few hundred meters to go. It is grueling until the last meters. The music from the DJ whips me to the line. After 9:19, I clock off. At the finish line, it is a lively crowd. I meet several people; everyone is euphoric. After finishing, we descend by cable car. Here I collect my finisher's shirt. You only get one if you finished it, as you should.

Photo: across the finish

Extreme quality

I speak to several participants and, of course, teammates Sven and Joppe. Everyone praises the extremely high quality. Keeping the roads clear, the feed stations, the atmosphere, the communication—really everything is top-notch.

The date is fixed: one week after the Ötztaler Radmarathon. This makes it a perfect alternative if you are not entered for the Ötztaler. Also, you can ride the double: ORM and KRM. Next edition: September 7, 2025.

Result: Jack Burke won with the men, Janine Meyer with the women. Sven rode 8:21, Joppe 8:41. All results can be found here.