Farewell to Max Riese: The Ultra-Cyclist Who Left an Indelible Mark
The cycling community is mourning the loss of Max Riese, a distinguished ultra-cyclist and founder of the GravGrav community, who tragically passed away on September 15, 2026, following a fatal accident near Berchtesgaden, Germany. (cyclingweekly.com)
A Serendipitous Meeting in Jordan
In February 2023, while traversing the Jordan Bike Trail, I encountered Max by chance at a hotel near the Shobak Castle in Al-Jaya. Our initial conversation was brief, centered around our bikepacking setups. It wasn’t until later that evening, during a communal dinner, that Max revealed his true identity.
A Glimpse into Max’s World
Max shared his recent endeavors, including a memorable gravel ride with Bruno Ferraro, celebrating the end of the COVID-19 emergency. They met at the summit of a World War I military road at 2,094 meters, each starting from their respective homes in Bassano del Grappa and Salzburg.
He also spoke passionately about the Lynx Trail in Slovenia, a bikepacking route designed to raise awareness about the importance of large carnivores like bears, wolves, and lynxes in the ecosystem.
The Birth of GravGrav
Our paths crossed again when Max invited me to contribute an article to GravGrav, the platform he had recently founded to share experiences, tips, and news from the world of bikepacking.
A Life Cut Short
On September 15, 2026, Max’s life was tragically cut short after colliding with a deer during a training ride near Berchtesgaden, Germany. He was 36 years old. (cyclingweekly.com)
A Lasting Legacy
Max’s passing has left a void in the cycling community. His dedication to ultra-cycling and his role in fostering a global bikepacking community through GravGrav will be remembered. As we continue our rides, we honor Max’s spirit and the connections he helped create.
In Memoriam
Max Riese’s journey was one of passion, adventure, and community. His legacy will inspire cyclists worldwide to explore, connect, and cherish the open road.
Our thoughts are with Max’s family, friends, and the GravGrav community during this difficult time.