The Dakar

The Dakar Rally (typically just called The Dakar) is an annual off-road race that used to run from Paris, France to Dakar, Senegal but only up until 2008. Due to political unrest and security issues, the race was cancelled in that year and the following year was moved to run through Argentina and Chile. Since then it has been held in South America as a true "rally raid", meaning strictly off road bikes in extremely tough terrain, sometimes covering as much as 800 km in a stage. Interestingly, about 80% of the participants are classified as amateurs, making it quite a special open participation event. Check out some of the amazing photos below for an idea of just what a rider will face in this gruelling event.

Photos courtesy of TotallyCoolPix