The Andalucía Bike Race by GARMIN 2025 delivered six days of breathtaking MTB action, testing the skills, endurance, and resilience of all participants. For the KTM Spada team, it was an intense battle across the diverse and challenging terrains of Granada, Jaén, and Córdoba. Each stage presented unique obstacles, demanding not only strength and strategy but also the highest level of technical precision, where having the right equipment, including top-tier grips, made all the difference.

Stage 1: Granada’s grand debut
For the first time, the Andalucía Bike Race kicked off in Granada, a city renowned for its historic beauty and steep, winding trails. The inaugural stage featured a grueling 62.97-kilometer course with 1,816 meters of elevation gain, taking riders through iconic landmarks such as the Albaicín neighborhood and the Sacromonte trail. KTM riders Nicolas and Lorenzo Samparisi wasted no time in asserting themselves, staying in contention throughout the stage. A final sprint saw them secure a strong finish, proving they were ready for the challenges ahead.

Stage 2: high-speed battles in Huétor Vega
The second stage was all about explosiveness—a short yet intense 26.17-kilometer course with 741 meters of climbing. Riders faced fast trails, demanding descents, and a decisive XCO circuit in Huétor Vega. The KTM Spada team showcased their agility, maintaining a strong presence in the leading group despite the relentless pace. The day’s close finish reflected the sheer competitiveness of this year’s edition, with the top teams crossing the line just seconds apart.

Stage 3: entering Jaén’s iconic terrain
With the race shifting to Jaén, the riders faced a formidable challenge: a 64.79-kilometer stage with 2,227 meters of elevation gain. The route took them through the rugged beauty of Sierra Mágina Natural Park, testing their climbing abilities to the limit. The Samparisi brothers demonstrated their strength on the long ascents, staying within striking distance of the leaders. A late-race attack allowed them to clinch a strong finish, reinforcing their position in the general classification.

Stage 4: technical mastery in El Neveral
Jaén’s technical trails came to the forefront in Stage 4, where a 40-kilometer route packed with steep climbs and thrilling descents pushed every rider to their limits. The KTM Spada team embraced the challenge, navigating the technical sections with confidence. Their ability to handle high-speed descents and sharp corners was crucial, allowing them to maintain a steady position in the race. Their carefully chosen grips played a key role in ensuring optimal control and comfort in these high-pressure situations.

Stage 5: the queen stage in Córdoba
The fifth stage, known as the "Queen Stage," marked the beginning of the race’s final showdown in Córdoba. Covering 68 kilometers with 1,360 meters of elevation gain, this stage was a true test of endurance. Despite minor adjustments due to weather conditions, the course remained brutally demanding. KTM riders fought hard, positioning themselves strategically through the long climbs and rapid descents. A strong push in the latter half of the race saw them finish among the top contenders, keeping their hopes alive for the final stage.

Stage 6: the final time trial
The Andalucía Bike Race culminated in a decisive individual time trial. With the overall standings still open, every second counted. The KTM riders gave it their all, showcasing the power and precision that had defined their race. Their consistency throughout the event was rewarded with a commendable 8th-place overall finish, highlighting their resilience and skill in one of the most challenging stage races on the MTB calendar.

Conclusion: a testament to performance and endurance
The KTM Spada team’s journey through the Andalucía Bike Race was a true demonstration of endurance, skill, and strategy. Across six demanding stages, they tackled a diverse range of terrains, from the historic streets of Granada to the rugged mountains of Jaén and the rolling trails of Córdoba. Their ability to adapt, push through adversity, and perform at the highest level reinforced their place among the elite of MTB racing. Throughout the race, the Ciclovation Trail Silcolite grips proved to be both exceptionally comfortable and remarkably durable, standing up to the toughest conditions.

Riders: KTM Spada team
Photos: Sportograf courtesy of the KTM Spada team
Ciclovation Product: Trail Silcolite MTB Grip