“Gravel, dust and boundless freedom. Wide gravel roads, demanding climbs, dust in the air and the feeling of pure adventure.” That’s what event organiser Timo Rokitta promises with the launch of his new Dirty Palatinate gravel event, a 200 mile gravel extravaganza which takes itsinspiration from Unbound.
Way back in 2006, the inaugural Dirty Kanza gravel event saw 34 pioneering racers line up, ready to take on 200 miles (320 km) of the finest gravel roads that Kansas, USA had to offer. Last year, nearly 5000 competitors lined up for Unbound, the successor to Dirty Kanza and they showed that the appetite for this type of gravel event is stronger than ever.
For anyone wanting to experience some of the magic of Unbound but without having to generate such a vast carbon footprint, event organiser Timo Rokitta might have just the thing for you – Dirty Palatinate. Timo says with his new event “is based on the fascination and myth of the American classic: long distances, honest effort, spectacular landscapes and a community that lives gravel. Instead of endless prairies, you can expect rough forest paths, vineyards, lonely mountain ranges and hidden gravel tracks - a stage, made for real gravel adventures.”
He goes on to say that “Dirty Palatinate is not a race in the classic sense, but a challenge against itself, the ground and the route. Whether you’re an ambitious long-distance rider or a gravel enthusiast looking for a unique experience – it’s all about the spirit: endure, suffer together, finish!”
The event is being held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, starting at 8:00 a.m. at the Haus der Deutschen Weinstraße in Bockenheim, Germany. The time limit is 24 hours. The event is held in a self-supported format, meaning you are responsible for your own food and supplies along the way. Information about resupply points can be found in the roadbook. The entry fee of €30 includes: starter package with provisions, GPX track, roadbook and a high-quality metal finisher’s medal.
The event is limited to 100 riders. Full details and registration is available via the event website.