4350 km, 11 countries, 130 riders - a challenge for those who have decided to spend a few weeks or just a few days behind the handlebars on the saddle. The route from Italy (Lago di Garda) to the northernmost point of Europe (Nordkapp in Norway) had 5 scheduled stops and the first was in Prague.
The NC4000 is an unsupported endurance race, a ride that essentially crosses the whole of Europe. Together with the European Transcontinental Race, the Indian Pacific Wheel Race, and the American Great Divide, it is becoming increasingly popular among the ultra-marathon races. Unlike the TCR, though, the NC4000 has a clearly defined path that riders follow using mandatory GPS equipment. Thanks to the updated data provided by the equipment, we had the opportunity to meet some of the riders at the Prague stop.
Rita Jett (USA / Specialized) and Erik Nohlin (USA / Specialized) decided to conquer the European pilgrimage together (you may know this pair from the documentary Length of Sweden). They did not expect the high July temperatures in Prague, and Rita later admited to some disappointment with the “melted chocolate” on her clean bike. Erik appreciated the fact that one of the Specialized Sequoia / Merz legs ran right through Prague. This is a segment that Erik (the Specialized Creative Designer) dedicated to Jim Merz, the legendary frame builder.
If you want to see Rita’s freshly tuned riding style, or you have thought that things around you look dark and need some light, then I recommend checking out IG: @rittajett a @hellhommus.
