The Touratech Travel Event has long been much more than just a motorbike festival. It is the place where the adventure travel community takes stock once a year – and makes new plans. In 2026, over 20,000 people attended. More than ever before. The camping area was filled with tents and campervans as far as the eye could see, and the off-road test rides introduced a new format that showcased what Touratech is truly all about: it is not on tarmac, but off the beaten track that the real adventures take place – where the travels truly happen. Proof that the hunger for authentic experiences on two wheels remains as strong as ever.

With over 20,000 visitors, the Touratech Travel Event 2026 has further consolidated its position as one of the most important gatherings in the international motorcycling travel scene. From 5 to 7 June, the grounds surrounding Touratech’s headquarters in Niedereschach once again became the go-to destination for motorcycling travellers, adventure riders and long-distance travel enthusiasts. Thanks to early summer weather and the strong presence of BMW Motorrad, the festival grounds were bustling with activity throughout the weekend.
More than 50 partners and exhibitors showcased their products and services in the dealer area. The feedback from the participating companies was overwhelmingly positive. Test rides on the latest motorcycles from the manufacturers represented were in particularly high demand. Many slots were fully booked well in advance.
One of the unique features of the travel event was the off-road test rides. Visitors were able to ride the latest adventure bikes from BMW, Ducati, KTM, Suzuki, Yamaha and many other brands on specially prepared tracks under realistic conditions. The initiative attracted a great deal of interest and added a new dimension to the traditional road test rides.

Enthusiastic response to the talks and multimedia presentations

Once again this year, the programme on the Main Stage focused on internationally renowned figures from the motorcycling and adventure travel scene. Niels Peter Jensen presented his extreme travel project “Above the Clouds” and was visibly moved by the audience’s enthusiastic response. 

Michael Martin, a veteran of the motorbike touring scene, gave a very personal account of his career spanning over 40 years as a motorbike adventurer, photographer, filmmaker and travelling speaker in his latest presentation “Around the World on Two Wheels”. The huge interest continued even after the show, as many guests took the opportunity to purchase Michael’s latest book and chat with the speaker.
Dirk Schäfer provided another highlight with his presentation, designed specifically for the Travel Event. With his trademark blend of self-deprecating humour, a spirit of adventure and wit, he reminded the audience that, despite all the challenges, adventure riding is, above all, about one thing: the joy of being on/off the road.
Nick Sanders also wowed the audience once again with his British humour and tales from his many round-the-world trips. The premiere of the film “10th Anniversary Ride” by Adventure Country Tracks (ACT) was also very well received. Throughout the weekend, the dedicated ACT area became a central meeting point for the ever-growing community centred around the innovative ACT concept.

Adventure Stage is establishing itself as a second key platform

Just two years after its launch, the Adventure Stage has established itself as a distinct programme section. The stage was used extensively for talks, discussions and direct interaction between speakers and the audience.

There was particularly strong interest in the contributions from content creators and motorbike travellers who have a large following on social media. When Daniel Steffen (@steffinger) took to the stage, the area in front of the stage quickly filled with numerous fans and followers.
The initiative to provide a platform for female motorcyclists also received a positive response. In particular, the talks given by female adventurers who set off on long-term trips independently sparked great interest among the audience.

Experience the thrill of motorcycling for yourself

Alongside the test rides, the demonstrations by the GS Trophy Team Germany were a major draw for the crowds. The riders showcased their skills on the motorbikes, whilst also making themselves available for chats and questions throughout the festival.
The School of Dirt team attracted a great deal of attention. The trial shows alone provided a striking demonstration of the riders’ skill. When the same sections were then tackled on an adventure bike, it left many spectators in a state of incredulous amazement.
Once again, the guided motorbike tours through the Black Forest were fully booked. The factory visits were also traditionally in high demand.

Campsite achieves record occupancy

The free camping area was busier than ever before. For many visitors, spending the night together is simply an integral part of the event’s character. The high turnout once again highlighted the event’s community spirit. The ‘Blubber Coffee’ concept, featuring a coffee machine mounted on a motorbike and offered for the first time, was also a big hit.
Another detail highlighted the strong connection many guests have to the event: despite a significant increase in the number of T-shirts produced, the official Travel Event T-shirt sold out well in advance.

Extensive reach on social media

The weekend was accompanied by extensive coverage across digital channels. Influencers Vanessa König (@vanessaofftheroad) and Julie Hauser (@jhhjulie) were out and about on the site as live reporters, documenting the festival action as part of an Instagram takeover on the official Touratech channel.

Statement by Vivien Benz, responsible event manager:

“Over the past three days, 20,000 visitors have made the Touratech Travel Event an extraordinary experience. The positive atmosphere, the diversity of the guests and the shared enthusiasm for travelling on and with motorbikes characterised the entire weekend. Behind an event of this scale are many people whose dedication is often overlooked. I would therefore like to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, our partners and service providers, the relevant authorities, and the numerous volunteers. Their dedication, professionalism and excellent cooperation have played a key role in making this event possible”. 

Statement Philipp Blum, Touratech Head of Marketing:

“I am very grateful for the support of our partners. Over 50 exhibitors helped to make the Touratech Travel Event so diverse and vibrant. I would like to extend my special thanks to BMW Motorrad. The trust they have placed in us, their strong presence at the event, and the fantastic offers for our visitors were a real highlight of the event for me”.

With its mix of talks, riding activities, community events and opportunities for personal interaction, the Touratech Travel Event 2026 has once again demonstrated why it is a must-attend event in the annual calendar for many motor­cycling travellers.

Further information is available on the Touratech website