Enduro is a tough sport—the clue is in the name. Hours upon hours spent in the saddle in the most remote locations, through woods, rivers, and mule tracks. And if the races seem demanding, well, the training sessions are even more so. How do we know? Simple: we found out the hard way.

After our incredible experience at the Italian round of the EnduroGP World Championship last September in Darfo Boario Terme—where we survived... literally—we wondered how one actually trains to perform better in such a grueling competition. That sparked an idea: find an Italian enduro rider who has seen (and won) plenty of world-class races. The first name that came to mind was Thomas Oldrati.

Thomas needs no introduction: Junior World Champion, Fiamme Oro rider, and a staple of the World Enduro scene for over twenty years. Simply put, we couldn't have found anyone better to help us reach our goal.

Being the true professional he is, he replied immediately, inviting us to meet him in the Bergamo mountains. We were about to go riding with an Italian legend in the very heartland of enduro. Every rider’s dream.

Once we set off, things got tough immediately: technical transfers, far-from-obvious sections, and right where I thought I could relax—a small practice track, theoretically "friendlier" terrain for us motocross riders—I struggled immensely. Massive bumps, difficult terrain, gravel, and loose rocks: pure survival.

Thomas, however, was impeccable, offering invaluable tips that yielded immediate results. Different lines, a more rearward riding position, tiny details that only a rider of his caliber could spot and correct.

Then we hit the mule tracks, where our partner for the day gave us a massive helping hand: the Honda CRF 300 RX MY 2026. Light and agile—with extremely intuitive handling—and those extra 50cc compared to the 250 RX really make the difference. The engine is fuller at low revs and, in the toughest situations, it proves to be an absolute godsend.

The day ended on a high note, and the experience was nothing short of legendary. Who knows, maybe in 2026 Moto.it will be lining up once again at the start of the Italian EnduroGP...