FAQ
WHO CAN APPLY FOR THE LAEL’S CROATIA WOMEN RALLY?
The rally is open to women, trans women and non-binary riders from all backgrounds, identities, and riding levels. You don’t need to be fast or experienced in bikepacking—just curious, ready for adventure, and excited to spend time on the bike with others.
IS IT A RACE?
No. This is a self-supported group ride, not a race. There are no podiums or prizes. The focus is on shared experience, connection, and personal challenge, not competition.
HOW FLEXIBLE IS IT?
Very flexible! We start and finish together in Trieste, but the rest is up to you. Divide the route over the days however it works for you.
We’ll have a WhatsApp group to help riders share locations, meet-ups, and accommodation tips along the way.
DO PEOPLE RIDE TOGETHER?
Often, yes. Riders naturally form small groups based on pace and where they want to sleep. Some prefer solo days, others stick together.
WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED?
A gravel bike or hardtail MTB with wide tires and good gearing is strongly recommended. The route includes a mix of gravel, pavement, and some short sections with rugged terrain.
WHAT IF I HAVE BIKE ISSUES?
The rally community is super supportive—riders help each other out on the road. Larger towns also have bike shops for parts and repairs, and a good tool kit goes a long way!
CAN I USE AN E-BIKE?
Not for this edition. Due to route design and logistics (limited charging points, airline restrictions), e-bikes won’t be accepted.
DO I NEED TO CARRY ALL MY GEAR?
Yes. This is a self-supported ride, which means you’ll carry your own gear, food, and essentials. There will be no luggage transfers, but you’ll have a GPX route, suggested overnight spots, and support from the group spirit around you.
WHERE DO WE SLEEP?
This is a self-supported rally, so you can choose how to rest—camping, bivvying, guesthouses, or hotels. We’ll share tips on towns and suggested stop points, but you’re in charge of your own overnight plans.
I’VE NEVER DONE SOMETHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. CAN I STILL JOIN?
Yes! This rally is made for you. You don’t need to be an ultra-cyclist or have it all figured out. What matters most is your attitude, openness, and willingness to embrace the adventure.
IS THERE A REGISTRATION FEE?
No. Participation is free, but you’ll need to cover all your personal expenses (travel, food, accommodations, repairs, etc.). Thanks to our partners, we’re able to keep the rally open and accessible.
WHAT’S THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
Applications are open from June 30 to July 10. Just fill out the form linked on this page. We’ll review all entries and notify participants on their status on July 15.
HOW MANY PARTICIPANTS WILL BE SELECTED?
We’ll select around 60 riders for this edition to keep the experience intimate, manageable, and community-driven.
WHO’S ORGANIZING THE RALLY?
The rally is organized by Lael Wilcox and her team. The rally is presented by Wahoo, in partnership with komoot, Rapha, and ROKA.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR THE LAEL’S CROATIA WOMEN RALLY?
The rally is open to women, trans women and non-binary riders from all backgrounds, identities, and riding levels. You don’t need to be fast or experienced in bikepacking—just curious, ready for adventure, and excited to spend time on the bike with others.
IS IT A RACE?
No. This is a self-supported group ride, not a race. There are no podiums or prizes. The focus is on shared experience, connection, and personal challenge, not competition.
HOW FLEXIBLE IS IT?
Very flexible! We start and finish together in Trieste, but the rest is up to you. Divide the route over the days however it works for you.
We’ll have a WhatsApp group to help riders share locations, meet-ups, and accommodation tips along the way.
DO PEOPLE RIDE TOGETHER?
Often, yes. Riders naturally form small groups based on pace and where they want to sleep. Some prefer solo days, others stick together.
WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED?
A gravel bike or hardtail MTB with wide tires and good gearing is strongly recommended. The route includes a mix of gravel, pavement, and some short sections with rugged terrain.
WHAT IF I HAVE BIKE ISSUES?
The rally community is super supportive—riders help each other out on the road. Larger towns also have bike shops for parts and repairs, and a good tool kit goes a long way!
CAN I USE AN E-BIKE?
Not for this edition. Due to route design and logistics (limited charging points, airline restrictions), e-bikes won’t be accepted.
DO I NEED TO CARRY ALL MY GEAR?
Yes. This is a self-supported ride, which means you’ll carry your own gear, food, and essentials. There will be no luggage transfers, but you’ll have a GPX route, suggested overnight spots, and support from the group spirit around you.
WHERE DO WE SLEEP?
This is a self-supported rally, so you can choose how to rest—camping, bivvying, guesthouses, or hotels. We’ll share tips on towns and suggested stop points, but you’re in charge of your own overnight plans.
I’VE NEVER DONE SOMETHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. CAN I STILL JOIN?
Yes! This rally is made for you. You don’t need to be an ultra-cyclist or have it all figured out. What matters most is your attitude, openness, and willingness to embrace the adventure.
IS THERE A REGISTRATION FEE?
No. Participation is free, but you’ll need to cover all your personal expenses (travel, food, accommodations, repairs, etc.). Thanks to our partners, we’re able to keep the rally open and accessible.
WHAT’S THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
Applications are open from June 30 to July 10. Just fill out the form linked on this page. We’ll review all entries and notify participants on their status on July 15.
HOW MANY PARTICIPANTS WILL BE SELECTED?
We’ll select around 60 riders for this edition to keep the experience intimate, manageable, and community-driven.
WHO’S ORGANIZING THE RALLY?
The rally is organized by Lael Wilcox and her team. The rally is presented by Wahoo, in partnership with komoot, Rapha, and ROKA.