The adventure came to a sudden and unfortunate halt for Mike Monterusso, one of the strong starters of this year’s Alaska-Divide. Mike launched into the race with power and determination, riding confidently at the front of the pack. But the Alaskan backcountry had other plans.
While tackling the steepest section of the climb to Hatcher Pass, disaster struck – the rim of his rear wheel gave out, cracking under pressure. In an instant, the dream of completing the Alaska-Divide came to an end. With no way to continue, Mike had to make the tough call to withdraw.
It’s a harsh reminder of the unpredictability of ultra-endurance racing. The silver lining? The failure happened during the uphill grind – not during the high-speed descent or on one of the remote wilderness stretches where getting help could have been far more difficult.
We’re gutted to see Mike leave the race so early, but we know his spirit remains unbroken. That kind of grit doesn’t go unnoticed, and we’re sure this won’t be his last adventure on two wheels.
Hang in there, Mike – the trail will wait for your return.
#alaskadivide2025 #rusjanbag #denali #denalihighway #cyclingalaska #lastfrontier #alaska #daltonhighway #daedhorse #northernlights #loneliestroad #bikepacking #bikepackinglife #ultracycling #ultraendurancecycling #cyclinglife #rower #ciclismo #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #gravel #gravelbike #transbikeadventures #alaskaadventures #explorealaska #alaskadivide