Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Insane Tour?

The Insane Tour is an annual mountain bike touring challenge held in Cebu, Philippines, known for its demanding nature. Since its inception in 2003, the event has pushed riders to their limits, covering more or less 500 km around the island. Organized by the Alliance of Mountain Trekkers and Adventurers (AMTA), the tour tests endurance, toughness, and camaraderie among participants. Complete the tour to earn the prestigious title of Tourmaster! 

2. Why is the Insane Tour called 'Insane'?

The event is named 'Insane' because of the rigorous demands it places on participants. The route spans long distances along Cebu's coastal roads and national highways. Although the roads are mostly paved, there are damaged sections, and using mountain bikes adds to the challenge and tradition of the event.

3. What is the Classic Insane Tour (CIT) route?

The Classic Insane Tour (CIT) starts in Minglanilla and follows this path:

Minglanilla → Tabunok → Cebu City → Mandaue → Consolacion → Liloan → Compostela → Danao → Catmon → Sogod → Bogo → San Remigio → Tabuelan → Tuburan → Asturias → Balamban → Toledo → Pinamungajan → Aloguinsan → Barili → Dumanjug → Ronda → Alcantara → Moalboal → Badian → Alegria → Malabuyoc → Ginatilan → Samboan → Santander → Oslob → Boljoon → Alcoy → Dalaguete → Argao → Sibonga → Carcar → San Fernando → Naga → Minglanilla.

4. When did the Insane Tour start, and what was the original route?

The Insane Tour began in 2003, with a route starting in Minglanilla and heading north before continuing south. This route became a tradition because it was found to be safer and more efficient than starting in the south.

5. Why are Medellin and Daanbantayan not included in the route?

Medellin and Daanbantayan are not included because adding them would require backtracking, disrupting the loop structure of the tour. Additionally, maintaining the traditional route helps preserve the record for the shortest completion time.

6. What was the significance of the 2019 Insane Tour?

In 2019, the organizers introduced an experimental road bike category and a mini Insane Tour, covering almost half of the original route. However, it was determined that road bikes were less suitable for certain sections of the route, particularly at night and due to some road damages. The event also started charging a registration fee, which included a finisher medal, event shirt, and refreshments. The route featured stations called Oasis.

7. Why does the Insane Tour continue to use mountain bikes?

The Insane Tour continues to honor its roots by sticking to mountain bikes, which adds to the challenge and preserves the traditional nature of the event.

8. Is the Insane Tour suitable for road bikes?

While the route is mostly paved and could technically be done on a road bike, the Insane Tour is primarily designed for mountain bikes to preserve the event’s tradition and challenge. Road bikes are also less safe for some sections, particularly at night.

9. How has the Insane Tour evolved over the years?

Initially exclusive to AMTA bikers and free of charge, the Insane Tour began welcoming outsiders in 2009. It evolved to include a registration fee starting in 2019, which covered a finisher medal, event shirt, and refreshments. The event now features prizes for top finishers, funded by generous sponsors and supporters. Themes and team competitions were introduced, adding new dimensions to the event while maintaining its traditional challenge.

10. Can I participate in the Insane Tour with a road bike?

It is not recommended to participate with a road bike due to safety concerns, particularly at night. The tour is best suited for mountain bikes, which align with the event’s traditional and challenging nature.

11. Why does the Insane Tour start in the north?

The tour starts in Minglanilla and heads north because it was found to be safer and more efficient than starting in the south. This route has since become a tradition, and it continues to be the preferred starting point for the event.

12. Will the Insane Tour route change in the future?

The organizers are committed to preserving the traditional route, which has become a key part of the event’s identity. While minor adjustments may be made, the core route is expected to remain largely the same.

13. What challenges should participants expect during the Insane Tour?

Participants should be prepared for a physically demanding experience, with long distances, some damaged road sections, and potentially challenging weather conditions. The tour is designed to push cyclists to their limits.

14. How can I stay informed about the Insane Tour?

Stay updated by following the official social media channels and checking the event website for the latest news and announcements.