Rapha Festive 500 – Time is precious, waste it wisely

Although meant to be a time to slow down, the holidays in December are usually the busiest time of the year. We rush from a family visit here to a Christmas luncheon there, wrap presents as if we are trying to break a speed record and, before we know it, find ourselves watching the same bad Christmas films we watch every year.

This is exactly why, at Mantel, we love the Rapha Festive 500. Not only because it is an occasion to keep cycling but also, and mainly, because it reminds us of the fact that the holiday season is exactly that, a holiday! We are free to go outside, clear our heads and put our legs to work. It is time to waste — in the best possible way.

"Time is precious. Waste it wisely."

What is the Rapha Festive 500?

The Rapha Festive 500 is an annual cycling challenge in which each participant cycles a total of 500 kilometres between December 24 and 31.

The great thing about the Festive 500 is that there are no rules about speed, bike type or other aspects. You decide how you want to complete those 500 kilometres. With long endurance rides or smaller stages spread over several days. Alone or with someone. On the road, on gravel or in the woods. The goal is to cycle and to enjoy the kilometres.

How to make the most of your Festive 500

So you have decided to cycle 500 kilometres between Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. What a great plan, congratulations! But how are you going to do that amid the annual Christmas chaos? Don't worry, with these tips you can make your Festive 500 fun and doable!

Smart planning for peace of mind

With December already jam-packed, it pays to plan your bike rides wisely. Not everything has to be set in stone but a rough plan will give you peace of mind.

Reduce the number of rides

You really don't have to be on your bike for eight days in a row. By planning two or three longer rides, you can cover a lot of kilometres while leaving room for rest days, bad weather days or impromptu plans with family or friends.

Start with a bang on December 24

Christmas Eve marks the official start of the Festive 500. It is a perfect time to go on a nice first ride and get into a good rhythm.

Decide on the best distances

Rides between 50 and 150 kilometres are ideal: long enough to accumulate good mileage but not so long that they become a mental (and physical) struggle.

Make sure others will see you on your bike

As winter days are short, you may well cycle in twilight or darkness. With the right lights and reflective clothing, you will ride safely as well as carefree, enjoying every kilometre to the fullest without worrying about being overlooked or run off the road.

• Bike lights front and rear ensure you are visible in all conditions, including fog or rain.

• Reflective clothing and accessories are small details with big effects, from jackets to shoe clips.

• A helmet with reflective elements increases your visibility and protects your head.

BBB Cycling StrikeDuo 1600i BLS-172i

RRP 109,95

From 49,99

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BBB Cycling Rearlight Signal BLS-255i

RRP 32,95

28,45

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Make your routes fun, not hard

The Festive 500 is a game of endurance. To stay motivated, pick routes that keep your spirits high!

• Ride in loops: Always end up right at your doorstep.

• Stay level: Flat roads save vital energy in winter conditions.

• Skip the steep stuff: Avoid the "walls" to keep your legs fresh for the full 500.

Hassle-free navigation

In winter, you want to spend as little time as possible thinking about where to go. A clear route allows you to keep the momentum going and enjoy your surroundings.

Riding quiet roads isn't just more pleasant; it is safer too. By avoiding busy intersections and complicated sections, you can keep your head clear and your ride relaxed.

Garmin Edge 1040

RRP 599,99

From 394,95

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Wahoo ELEMNT ACE

RRP 599,95

From 419,95

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Let your cycling kit make the difference

During the Festive 500, you may find yourself riding in true winter conditions. Cold, wind, and the occasional rain shower are all part of the challenge. This is exactly why appropriate and high-quality cycling clothing is so important. Wear the right layers and stay warm, dry, and comfortable — especially during long rides or short breaks.

Quality winter kit regulates your body temperature, wicks away sweat, and protects you from the elements. It allows you to focus entirely on the ride and enjoy every kilometre spent outdoors.

Rapha Deep Winter

84,95

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Rapha Core Winter

Previous lowest price 131,21

122,-

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Rapha Core Thermal LS

Previous lowest price 86,21

From 69,95

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Eat wisely to keep pedalling and avoid the "bonk"

During the Festive 500, your body will demand a great amount of energy. In winter, you burn many more calories than usual; the cold, wind, and long distances force your body to work harder. Proper nutrition is an absolute must to sustain your efforts.

Don’t wait until you are hungry to eat — think ahead instead. Start your ride with a solid breakfast or lunch, and keep fueling regularly while on the road.

What to bring with you?

• Energy bars for long-lasting energy

• Gels for a quick boost when things get tough

• Isotonic sports drink to replenish fluids and minerals

Powerbar Energize Bar

RRP 7,29

From 6,97

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Mantel Energy Gel

RRP 4,81

From 3,84

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SiS Go Hydro Tablets

From 9,68

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Prepare well for every ride

There is nothing more frustrating than a mechanical breakdown mid-ride. Especially in winter, you want your rides to be smooth and safe. A few smart preparations go a long way.

• Spare tube or tubeless kit: To take care of a flat tyre and continue the ride.

• Multitool: To carry out small repairs or make adjustments during a ride.

• Bike pump: To get your tyres back up to pressure quickly if needed.

• Another spare tube: To use if both your tyres go flat.

Before every ride, check your entire bike and pack the essentials to prevent stressful situations away from home.

Schwalbe One Plus

RRP 53,90

32,45

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Mantel Bio Tyre Sealant

From 8,95

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Crankbrothers M19

RRP 36,99

29,95

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Turn every ride into a mini-adventure

The Festive 500 is a perfect opportunity to add a touch of adventure to your rides. Why not include an overnight stay, a coffee stop at a new spot, or create a route along hidden trails and through the woods? It makes every ride feel different and exciting.

With bikepacking bags on your bike, it is easy to carry everything you need. Or even go out for multiple days without missing a thing!

Rapha Explore Handlebar Pack

From 175,-

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Rapha Explore Frame Pack

105,-

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Finally: Enjoy every kilometre!

The Festive 500 isn’t just about those 500 kilometres. It is about being outside in the fresh air and on empty roads, and the feeling of truly taking some time for yourself.

So, layer up, hop on your bike, and enjoy the ride!

"Time is precious. Waste it wisely."