Tackling a route of 400 km with 6,900 meters of elevation gain over a single weekend is the kind of achievement that leaves a lasting mark. Fiorino Mud 2026 (taking place on September 26–27) is not just an ordinary ride; it is an epic, wild journey through the heart of Tuscany, starting from the iconic setting of Ponte Vecchio in Florence, heading all the way down to the Maremma coast and the sea at PuntAla, before climbing back toward the city.
If you’ve already registered or are thinking about joining before registration closes on September 25, here is a practical guide with essential tips to arrive prepared and make the most of every single gravel mile.
What does it actually mean to "prepare" a 400 km ride in two days?
Let’s be clear: finishing an adventure like this requires a solid endurance base and plenty of miles accumulated in your legs over the season. You cannot improvise on distances like these. But the real game-changer when it comes to ultra-cycling isn’t just pure athletic preparation, it’s your mindset. If you are already used to spending 8 to 10 hours in the saddle, the reality is that making the leap to the 12 to 14 daily hours required by such a long event happens in a heartbeat. It taps into a mental space built on pacing, resistance to the monotony of fatigue, and the ability to reset your thoughts with every pedal stroke. Once your mind enters that flow state, the miles fly by and exhaustion transforms into pure mental energy.
The two-stage strategy: pacing and energy management
Tackling 400 km becomes much more manageable if you mentally and physically divide the effort into two distinct days:
The descent to Maremma (Saturday): You roll out energized from the Arno River, tackling the hills and technical sections. The most common mistake is going too hard in the first half: remember that consistency is the key to reaching the halfway mark with your legs still full of energy.
The climb back to Florence (Sunday): The return trip requires mental grit and overnight recovery management. Take advantage of every feed zone and maintain a steady rhythm, letting the breathtaking scenery provide the push you need through the toughest moments.
Choosing the right setup (and riding light)
The eternal dilemma of ultra-cycling is: how much weight should I carry? Riding for hours with a bike loaded down with bikepacking bags can alter your bike’s handling on technical and demanding gravel tracks.
That is precisely why Fiorino Mud introduced a logistical game-changer: the “zero-bikepacking” service. For the first 100 registrants, the organization takes care of transporting your luggage (in numbered bags, max 50x30x40 cm). This means:
During the day you will ride light and nimble, carrying only a handlebar or saddle bag with essentials like tools, food, and a rain jacket.
You will find your personal belongings waiting for you at the end of the first stage at PuntAla Camp & Resort, where a single tent will already be pitched and waiting to guarantee you a perfect night’s rest.
What to pack in your overnight bag
Leveraging the ready-made tent and luggage transport means traveling light and easy. In the bag transported to PuntAla by the organization, make sure to pack:
A complete post-ride change of clothes (comfortable apparel and sandals to let your feet breathe).
Recovery supplements and a clean water bottle for the next day.
Personal hygiene products and a shower towel (or check the campground amenities).
A light hoodie or jacket for the evening (the sea breeze in Maremma is lovely, but it can get chilly).
Training and recalls: the track is ready!
The final recons on the route have confirmed all the hard work: the gravel tracks have been meticulously fine-tuned to ensure a smooth, flowing, and fun route, maximizing the beauty of the passages through forests, historic villages, and the hills of Chianti.
The countdown has begun
Fiorino Mud 400 awaits you on September 26–27 for an unforgettable experience blending history, grit, and stunning landscapes.
Remember that registrations close strictly on September 25: don’t miss your chance to secure your spot on the starting grid and experience the wildest, most authentic side of Tuscany.
