Schinderhannes MTB Marathon Emmelshausen

Since its beginnings in the mid-2000s, the Schinderhannes MTB Marathon has become a permanent fixture on the German mountain bike calendar. The name refers to the legendary Hunsrück robber captain Johannes Bückler (1779–1803), known as "Schinderhannes," who was active in the Hunsrück and on the Middle Moselle — and whose myth is now marketed for tourism in the form of hiking and cycling trails.

The organizer is Schinderhannes MTB Marathon e.V., a club founded specifically for the marathon, whose members organize the event on a voluntary basis. Start and finish is the Emmelshausen-Liesenfeld sports field on the L206 towards Gondershausen — a location that offers ample space for transition zones, catering, and festival operations.

For 2026 — the 20th edition — four route lengths are announced, including a new route named "Julchen". Typically, distances of approx. 25 km, 45 km, 65 km, and 90 km are offered — the exact lengths will be published by the organizer in spring 2026. The routes are characterized by typical Hunsrück elements: single trails through beech forests, fast forest road sections, technical descents in the stream valleys (Baybachklamm, Ehrbachklamm), short but steep climbs.

The Kids Race is aimed at young riders and is an important component of the event concept. Registration is possible from January 1, 2026, with early bird benefits. Accompanying the sporting program, there is a Bike Expo area with exhibitor stands (manufacturers, component brands, local bike shops) and catering at the sports field. Freely accessible to spectators.