Records and retro at quirky bike race

An altitude gain of 801 metres over 13.5 kilometres is a challenge for any cyclist. But every year in Slovenia hundreds do just that with old-school single-gear bicycles that were definitely not designed for the mountains.

The ninth annual Red Bull Goni Pony race attracted a record 1,600 competitors this year whose rides had to adhere to strict rules: only 20-inch wheels, no gears, no motors and no carbon parts - and at least the rear brake must work.

The race is a tribute to the Pony, a legendary city bike made by the now defunct bicycle maker Rog that can still be found in...