The Austrian ultra-endurance cyclist was a community leader and strong competitor, winning the Hellenic Mountain Race earlier this year.
(Photo: gravgrav Collective YouTube)
Updated September 17, 2026 08:01PM
Austrian ultra-endurance and bikepacking racer Max Riese died in a cycling accident on September 15th. Riese was a beloved member of the European ultra-cycling community. Further details on the accident are unavailable at this time.
“It is with extremely heavy hearts that we share the news that Max Riese passed away in a fatal accident on 15.09.2026,” a statement from @gravgrav.cc read. Riese was the founder of gravgrav, an online organization that promoted ultra-endurance, off-road cycling.
“As we all know, Max is a special soul. Although ultra-racing is an individual pursuit, Max cared deeply about the people and the community around it. He leaves behind an irreplaceable space in the larger community for gravgrav, but mostly for his family, for Lisa, and his closest ones.
“Let’s all continue riding, exploring, bringing people together, and keep connecting the community Max cared about so deeply. Your spirit will live on in our hearts, in our ideas, and in our actions. You will be missed more than words can express. See you around, Max 🤍.”
While Riese predominantly raced in Europe, he made an effort to compete around the world, including at the Tour Divide, Atlas Mountain Race, and the Highland Trail 550. He was also accomplished as a racer, winning the Hellenic Mountain Race earlier this year.
Riese was 33-years old. Velo’s thoughts are with Riese’s loved ones and the entire bikepacking community.