A team of 35 “super-human” cyclists have raised more than £80,000 for Dentaid The Dental Charity by pedalling 500 miles over some of Europe’s toughest terrain.
The seventh Straumann Group Charity Bike Ride saw riders tackle tricky mountain passes, energy-sapping climbs and high-speed descents over five long days in the saddle across Switzerland, France and Germany.
Funds from the event will support Dentaid’s work delivering life-changing dental care for vulnerable women and families affected by violence and abuse. This is the third time that Dentaid has benefitted from the generosity of this extraordinary cycling challenge.
The team of cyclists comprising Straumann customers and members of staff started their journey in Basel, Switzerland, home of Straumann’s global headquarters, on Thursday 10th September, arriving back in the city to a cycling heroes’ welcome on Monday 14th.
Across the five days, riders put their bodies to the test on a challenging route through the beautiful Alsace wine region and its many lush vineyards, climbing through the Vosges mountains and visiting the UNESCO heritage city of Strasbourg. They then crossed into Germany, heading back south through the renowned Black Forest Nature Park with its beautiful mountainous scenery before the final descent back into Basel.
Riders had the opportunity to take on some of the great climbs featured on the Tour De France, such as the highest mountain in the Vosges, the Grand Ballon, and its spectacular counterpart, the Petit Ballon.
Support riders, medics and vehicles were on hand to help the team every step of the way, while event sponsors W+H and Createch supplied branded jerseys to all riders.
The largest individual amount raised so far comes from John Good, from No. 8 Partnership in London, at more than £20,000.
Dentaid The Dental Charity’s CEO Andy Evans was among those who took part in the ride, his third time at the event.
He said: “This year’s Straumann Bike Ride was a hugely punishing and challenging one, but the way everyone willed each other through the tricky mountain passes and were there for each other even in their lowest moments was a huge reminder of how rewarding it can be.
“Knowing that everyone’s effort will help to transform the lives of women going through such difficult situations in their lives means a huge amount. We are working to improve not just their oral health but their dignity too.
“Congratulations to everyone who reached the finish line together and a huge thank you to Straumann for supporting this fantastic adventure.”
Stephen Booth, Country Manager UK at Straumann Group, added: “I’m immensely proud of everybody who’s been involved, not just for the effort they’ve put in before, for the fundraising, the training, but also the way that they’ve pushed themselves through these five days.
“It’s really inspiring for me to see, and it gives me energy for the next one in two years’ time.
“It’s just such an amazing experience – I think it brings out the best in humans.”
Previous Straumann Bike Rides in 2022 and 2024 have helped the charity purchase mobile dental units, which provide care for people in under-served communities across the UK.
These vehicles visit projects supporting those harmed by human trafficking, the sex industry or domestic abuse at refuges and hostels. Volunteer dental professionals give up their time and use their skills to support those whose difficult living situations make it a challenge to access dental care.
To donate, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/team/straumannbikeride2026.
For more information about Dentaid, please visit www.dentaid.org.
