Another Crazy Adventure

Four days, countless pit stops, and a whole lot of laughs later, they made it back to Germany. The plan? Use the Ape around Stuttgart to hit up trails in the nearby hills. Sure, it’s not the fastest or fanciest way to get around, but that’s what makes it so awesome. It’s slow, simple, and just right for the kind of backcountry lifestyle we love here.

The journey began in Finale Ligure, naturally, with a full day of backcountry riding in our playground. After that, they packed up and hit the road. They made it between Como and Varese on the first night, covering over 300 km in one day—something we never thought our trusty Ape would manage!

Day two had them aiming for the Weingarten Bike Park in Germany, where they’d planned to stay overnight and ride the next day. But as soon as they set off, they realized San Bernardino Pass, the easiest route, was closed due to an unexpected snowfall (in September!). This detour turned their 210-km route into another 300+ km marathon. To top it off, as they neared Vaduz, the throttle cable snapped. So, they spent the night fixing it up before finally getting some rest.

On the third day, they finally arrived at the bike park and got in some well-earned riding time with their bikes (and a break from driving). Their last day was a breezy 200 km from Weingarten Bike Park to Stuttgart—a relaxing “blue run” to wrap up their epic journey.

This road trip was the perfect example of what BackcountryFinale is all about: embracing the journey, taking things at your own pace, and finding joy in the ride itself. Whether it’s mountain biking in Finale or cruising across borders in a vintage Ape, every trip is an adventure waiting to happen.

We’re thrilled to know that our Ape is still out there, adventuring around the hills of Stuttgart and living its third (or maybe fourth) life in good hands! Here’s to more wild ideas, more friends along for the ride, and always choosing the scenic route—even if it’s in a three-wheeled Ape with bikes on top.

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