The Crusher EX225 is about 240 miles, with 15,300' of climbing, of unsupported riding in the remote Michigan Upper Peninsula. What appears as roads on the map, often is more of a trail, something better suited to a dirt bike, utility or all terrain vehicle, and maybe an aggressively set up four wheel drive vehicle (likely without the ducks on the dashboard). The best way to learn about this, I'll call it a race, as there is a time cut to get a belt buckle (34 hours), and finish (40 hours), is to go to the above link. Diablo Cycling's Adam Koenig, Tim Patterson and Jeff Abitz, planned this day for months. Whatever the weather, whatever the support, the start day would not change. Adaptations, preparations, and adjustments would be made. Saturday they rolled out about 6:00 am. It rained on and off all day. They had no (athletic?) supporters. Two would finish on Monday afternoon. No sleep. Tim, has finished the EX225 in both 2020 and 2024. At about 120 miles, noting his light system was malfunctioning, and his clothing choices were compromised by the day's relentless rain, opted to make the short ride out to the main highway and ride the 20 miles back to the start. Rather then jeopardize Jeff and Adam's finishing buckle goals, he did the noble thing. Adam and Jeff felt better knowing Tim could now track their progress. Adam has been on a four year journey to secure his 906AT Triple Crown Hall of Pain 906adventureteam.com/mountain-bike-events/triple-crown/. A missed checkpoint partially cost him in 2021, and a failed phone cost him in 2024. Life events prevented attempts the other years. This year, he was more motivated, more prepared with gear selection, and more familiar with route features. Regardless of the endless sections of punishing creek crossings, submerged roads, rutted mud trenches and a startled moose & bear, there was no way he would not finish! Finish he did. Buckle earned! Triple Crown Hall of Pain Membership earned! Jeff Finished the EX225 in 2020 and 2021. 2021 was supposed to be his last year, as in his words "I'm getting too old for this". Inspired by Adam's goal of returning this year, convinced him to "do it one last time" (sarcasm?) at the age of 56. With that on his mind, at 55 miles to go, he went solo at his preferred pace, to give him time to address any unexpected challenges) to ensure his buckle earning finish. Buckle Earned! The remainder of the day (now Monday) Tim squired Adam and Jeff back the house, to a restaurant, and the mandatory visit to Black Rocks Brewery. Back at the house, while Tim carried in our bikes and gear, Adam and Jeff celebrated with some top shelf single malt scotch (Jeff's first time). When the lights went out, Jeff dozed off, questioning if the prior 31 hour ride was only a dream. While the Crusher has it's hazards, riders are monitored for progress and safety? sort of) at: https://trackleaders.com/crusher25?fbclid=IwY2xjawLQ-s5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFEOFRXTktoclFMT1Z5cVJOAR5AAZ7OmiFI_vFXEK085znfB2uLqdDU8MAFPOs9iuxC2uXVEjoJ5_3nOEZ5RQ_aem_GFVHhKl9OtdaNabR-VKzNg 2025 EX225 Finishers as of 5 Sep 2025:    Just for "gee wiz" below is Jeff's elevation and speed metrics:   May I recommend hearing from Adam below? The man can tell a tale.  - Jungle Jeff
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