NorthCape4000: preparation — a series
Tom · 12.12.2025
NorthCape4000 2026 is framed by the organisers as an adventure, not a race in the traditional sense. In this series we respect that official wording. Personally I still want to see (without a race mindset) how smoothly I can cover the shorter option from Berlin—about 3,000 km—to the Cape: a self benchmark, not a field comparison. That sits alongside solid setup, efficient days on the route, and mental and logistical resilience. Rules and updates: northcape4000.com.
Rather than one long article, I am writing several shorter parts — one angle at a time. What is already fixed (bike, bags, electrics, packing list) lives in My NorthCape4000 setup. This series is about choices, strategy, and what I learn while preparing.
Series contents
- My setup: bike, bags, electrics, tech — the kit as it goes on the road.
- Bags: mix, volume, aero — mixed brands, capacity vs weight, aero up front, paper templates, saddle pack & Varia.
- Bike & cockpit — Roadmachine, tyres, SRAM AXS, tri bars, frame storage.
- Retrofit, crank & fit — easing joints after the cockpit change: crank length, saddle, video, AI & MyVelofit — no tool decides alone.
- Power, lights & energy budget — fast charger, power bank, Lupine/Varia/Petzl; basics also in My NorthCape4000 setup.
- Navigation — Head unit comparison (practical) (Coros Dura, Wahoo Roam, ultra practice); a dedicated chapter on route, GPX, backup (coming soon).
- Digital: cameras, comms, tracking — without letting it eat the ride. (coming soon)
- Clothing & wet feet — Layers instead of one bulky jacket (layering with NC4K examples, Iceland contrast with Karin); shoes & rain (coming soon).
- Food on the road — resupply, gut, routine. (coming soon)
- Sleep, shelter, accommodation — hotel-first, backup kit, tent/mat/bag.
- Logistics: travel there and back — Berlin start, return, time windows. (coming soon)
When a part goes live, we link it here and in the NC4K box on the magazine overview.