The Patagonia of Asia
In the remote southwest of Kyrgyzstan lies a fascinating mountain world that is almost completely unknown—a rugged natural paradise that few Westerners have ever seen.
Right on the Tajik border, between rugged peaks and lonely valleys, an adventure begins that is not for the faint-hearted. Access is strictly regulated, as political tensions often render the region inaccessible.
However, we were fortunate in that the border area was opened shortly before our departure.
Accompanied by three Kyrgyz guides, four donkeys and two horses, Gerald Rosenkranz, Gerhard Czerner and Martin Bissig, a photographer and filmmaker, set off for the remote valleys.
According to the locals, no mountain biker had ever been there before—the spirit of pioneering was in the air.
Our journey began in the remote mountain village of Uzghurush without knowing whether the sparse trails would be rideable at all. We pushed, carried and struggled our way along
narrow paths, across raging streams and through a snowstorm at an altitude of over 4,000 metres. We spent nights in simple shepherds‘ huts and small tents in the middle of nowhere
without any comforts, but we had unforgettable encounters and a feeling of absolute freedom.
Despite colds, broken tents and moments of disorientation, we returned after seven intense days feeling exhausted yet fulfilled, with five cameras full of unique images and stories.
Join us on this extraordinary journey in:
The Patagonia of Asia.
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Gerhard CzernerDirector
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Gerhard CzernerProducer
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Martin BissigVideograph
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Project Type:Documentary
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Genres:Sport, Mountainbiking, Outdoor, Travel, Kyrgyzstan, Bike, Mountains, documentary
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Runtime:24 minutes 18 seconds
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Completion Date:May 13, 2025
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Production Budget:12 EUR
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Country of Origin:Germany
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Country of Filming:Kyrgyzstan
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Language:German
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Shooting Format:Digital
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Aspect Ratio:16:9
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:No
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BOFF Film FestivalMunich
Germany
July 16, 2025
Gerhard has been on the road as a bicycle travel journalist for many years, making his travel dreams come true. His exciting travel stories have been published in magazines all over the world. More and more he can be found behind the camera and in the editing room. His travels are more about the experience than the journey. For him, being on the road always comes before athletic performance, and the end of his competitive career is far in the past. As a cycling technique coach and tour guide, he travels the globe. As a public speaker, he inspires thousands of people every year. Gerhard prefers to be on his bike than in his car or office. In addition to biking, Gerhard is an avid mountain climber. His experience in both areas makes many of his cycling expeditions possible.
This trip was so remote and unique. We meet only one family and some shepherds on the way. Fighting in the snowstorm and finally completing the first circle with bikes was an unbelievable group achievement.