This past weekend, Scarab Cycles organized a memorable cycling trip to El Sifón, a place of legendary status for cyclists in Colombia and beyond. The Sifón route is not just another ride—it’s the highest paved road bike route in the world, reaching an astonishing 4,149 meters (13,582 feet) above sea level. This climb presents a unique challenge to any cyclist brave enough to take it on, combining physical endurance with breathtaking views as you pedal through one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
I was fortunate to be part of the support staff for this adventure, joining 22 dedicated cyclists as they took on this mighty route.
Friday: The Journey Begins
Our journey kicked off early on Friday morning. At 6:00 AM, we gathered at Scarab Cycles in El Retiro, ready to embark on the adventure ahead. Spirits were high as the group of cyclists prepared for what lay ahead. Our first stop was Rio Claro, a lush area where we paused for lunch and recharged our energy for the road ahead.
After lunch, we continued to Mariquita, a small, charming town where we would spend the night. Mariquita is located at the foot of the climb, providing a tranquil resting point before Saturday’s big push up the mountain.
Saturday: Climbing to New Heights
Saturday began even earlier, with our group departing at 6:00 AM to take on El Sifón. This day was all about the climb, and what a climb it was. The beauty of this route is how it seems to take you through every season in one day. We started in Mariquita’s scorching heat, which soon transitioned into cooler temperatures as we ascended. By the time we neared the summit of El Nevado del Ruiz, the air was crisp, and we were surrounded by the rugged high-altitude terrain.
The first cyclist reached the summit after six hours of pedaling, and the last rider arrived after nine hours. The conditions became increasingly extreme as rain began to fall during the final stretch, adding another layer of challenge to an already tough climb.
Although I didn’t have the chance to ride, being part of the support team allowed me to witness the sheer determination and resilience of each cyclist. It was a reminder of how cycling is not just a sport but a test of both mental and physical strength.
The BERT Experience
One thing that filled me with pride during the trip was seeing so many cyclists wearing BERT shoes during their downtime. Whether during rest stops or around camp, the riders who were sporting our shoes looked relaxed and comfortable, even after hours of intense pedaling. Those who weren’t wearing BERT definitely looked a little envious!
Beyond the stunning landscapes and the camaraderie of the group, the experience highlighted something deeply personal for me. Seeing our shoes being used in real-time by real people, and knowing that we’ve made a product that genuinely enhances their experience, was incredibly fulfilling. It’s one thing to envision a solution to a problem, but seeing that solution in action—watching people walk around in comfort after such a challenging ride—made all the effort worthwhile.
Onward and Upward
Moments like these remind me why I started BERT and why I remain so passionate about creating shoes that support active lifestyles. This trip to El Sifón was not just an adventure but a reaffirmation of the value of what we’re building. And with that motivation, I’m excited to continue improving and innovating our pre- and post-activity shoes.
Onward and upward!
