Marathon stage

In rally-raids such as the Dakar, a marathon stage links two days of racing with an overnight stop in a separate bivouac. Team mechanics are not allowed to work on the bikes, so riders must do all maintenance themselves with the tools and spares they carry or share with other competitors.

Typical jobs are changing the air filter, checking oil, tightening bolts and fixing punctures or mousse problems. The rules on spare parts and outside help depend on the event.

For riders the lesson is to ride with mechanical sympathy before the stop and to practise basic roadside repairs. A clean air filter, a light toolkit and knowledge of your own bike decide whether you start the second day.