Styrkeprøven Trondheim/Lillehammer/Eidsvoll - Oslo 2026

Styrkeprøven is Norway’s long road-cycling test from Trondheim to Oslo. The full version covers 540 km from Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim to Løren Idrettsanlegg in Oslo. It is typically held in June, when the weather can range from mild sunshine to afternoon thunderstorms. The name translates to “the test of strength,” fitting a route that requires riders to cover a country-length distance in one effort, rather than competing on a short, closed circuit. The series also offers shorter routes to the same Oslo finish, with road distances starting from Dombås, Lillehammer, Gjøvik, and Eidsvoll. These include a 57 km option from Eidsvoll and the 133 km Gjøvik-Oslo Jentetråkket route. The full course departs Trondheim on the E6, ascends to Hjerkinn at approximately 1000 meters elevation, and continues through locations like Dombås, Otta, Kvam, and Lillehammer. It then crosses Mjøsbrua and proceeds along the west side of Mjøsa towards Gjøvik. From Minnesund, the route follows Trondheimsveien via Eidsvoll Verk, Råholt, Dal, Jessheim, and Kløfta before the final approach into Oslo. The Trondheim-Oslo distance was undertaken as solo record attempts as early as 1899. The organized race commenced in 1967 with 121 participants, following Erik Gjems-Onstad of SK Rye’s initiative. Participation later surpassed 1000 riders, reaching its peak with over 5000 riders starting from Trondheim annually. The elite competition is team-based and rapid, but the event also accommodates club cyclists and endurance riders selecting a distance appropriate for their capabilities.