© Markus Frühmann © Markus Frühmann
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New Record: What You Can Achieve on a Road Bike

11.08.2026 |Simplon Riders

A road bike is about far more than simply riding fast on training rides. More and more cycling enthusiasts are discovering the appeal of long-distance riding, bikepacking and multi-day road cycling adventures. They take on thousands of metres of elevation, cross Alpine passes and experience adventures that go far beyond the classic after-work ride.

Just how far this idea can be taken is demonstrated by ultra-endurance cyclist Michael Strasser. With his Austrian Seven Summits project, he combined road cycling and mountaineering in an extraordinary challenge, setting a new record in the process.

Seven Summits, 1,100 Kilometres and More Than 21,000 Metres of climbing

The Austrian Seven Summits comprise the highest mountains in each of Austria’s federal states: Großglockner, Großvenediger, Piz Buin, Hoher Dachstein, Schneeberg, Geschriebenstein and Hermannskogel. Michael Strasser travelled between each mountain entirely by road bike. He climbed every summit on foot, completely alone and in accordance with the rules of a so-called Self Supported Fastest Known Time (FKT). He completed the entire challenge in four days, four hours and 40 minutes, setting a new record in the process.

In total, he covered around 1,100 kilometres and more than 21,000 metres of climbing. Around 130 kilometres of this distance was completed on foot in alpine terrain. Four of the seven summits are high-alpine peaks, requiring not only endurance but also alpine experience and a good assessment of conditions.

The challenge was particularly demanding: without outside support, Michael had to return to his road bike via the same route after each summit. Crossing over the mountains to shorten the route was not possible. He organised every decision, every break and every overnight stay himself.

Road Cycling Adventures with an Extra Challenge

Whether it’s bikepacking, an Alpine crossing or a multi-day road cycling tour, more and more people are looking to get more from their road bike than simply sporting performance. Rather than covering as many kilometres as possible in the shortest time, the focus is on nature, personal challenges and discovering new regions. Some even take it a step further and combine road cycling with other endurance sports such as mountaineering or trail running. With the Austrian Seven Summits, Michael Strasser shows just how far this idea can be taken.

Of course, you don’t have to chase records to enjoy the experience. A tour taking in several Alpine passes, a bikepacking weekend or your first self-planned multi-day road cycling adventure can already become an unforgettable experience.

© Markus Frühmann
© Markus Frühmann

The Right Road Bike for Extraordinary Challenges

Anyone planning long-distance rides or extraordinary challenges will benefit above all from thorough preparation. Realistic stage planning, keeping luggage as light as possible, sufficient food and drink and a reliable road bike all play a key role in spending many hours in the saddle comfortably and efficiently. Particularly on long climbs and fast descents, low weight, precise handling and high levels of comfort make a noticeable difference.

For his project, Michael Strasser once again chose the SIMPLON PAVO, which was specifically adapted to his requirements. In addition to a custom paint finish, the road bike was fitted with a specially developed 3D-printed spacer. This allows a stem and handlebar unit with extensions to be fitted, providing additional relief and a more comfortable riding position on ultra-distance rides.

Equipped with a SRAM RED groupset, disc brakes and 28-millimetre-wide Schwalbe tyres, Michael’s individually configured SIMPLON PAVO combines low weight with high aerodynamic performance and precise handling. These characteristics can make a decisive difference on long stages and demanding climbs.

Inspiration for Your Next Road Cycling Adventure

Not every road cycling tour has to take in seven summits and more than a thousand kilometres. But the Austrian Seven Summits are an impressive demonstration of the potential of road cycling. Whether it’s combining road cycling with mountaineering, going on a multi-day bikepacking adventure or taking on a tour across several Alpine passes, those open to new challenges will find countless ways to experience the sport from a new perspective.

If you also want to explore gravel roads and unpaved routes, a Gravel Bike offers even more freedom.

Svenja B.
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