ISDE History

The International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) is the oldest off-road motorcycle event on the FIM Calendar.

The ISDE was first held in 1913 at Carlisle, England. It has occurred annually, apart from interruptions due to World War I and World War II, at various locations throughout the world.

The early events were a true test of machine, rider skill, and reliability. Held on the dirt roads of that era, today most of the routes are truly off-road. Originally titled the International Six Day Trial, since 1980 it has been called the ISD Enduro.

Up until 1973 the motocross contest was always held in Europe. In 1973 it travelled for its first overseas jaunt the United States. Since then it has been outside Europe more frequently: twice in Australia (1992 and 1998), once more in the USA (1994), Brazil (2003), New Zealand in 2006 and Chile in 2007.

The motorcycle racing event has attracted national teams from as many as 32 different countries in recent years. Over its long history the rules and conditions have changed to keep in step with the developments in the sport, but it remains a supreme test of rider and motorcycle.

Over the six days and upwards of 1250 kilometers a motorcycle rider must contend with strict rules about time allowances and restrictions on mechanical replacements, carrying out his or her own track-side repairs.

Usually referred to as the Olympics of Motorcycling with trophies for best six-rider national, four-rider junior national, three-rider women's national, three-rider club and three-rider manufacturing teams. Gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded on an individual level.

The medals are typically awarded based on percentage of finishers, or relative to the best individual performance in the event within one of the three displacement classes. The 2006 ISDE was held at Lake Taupo, New Zealand. The event was won by Finland.

For the ISDE 2010, gold medals will go to participants who finish within 10% of their class' top competitor's total elapsed time, silver medals awarded for those within 40%, and all remaining finishers will be awarded bronze medals.

The ISDE can attract entries of more than 500 motorcycle riders, together with thousands of support crew and spectators. This has a major impact on tourist income for the venue in which it is based each year.