waypoints to the finish line . The competitors ride over punishing rough ground , so punctures and breakdowns are common , making good mechanical knowledge and a tool kit essential , while the long , arduous stages ensure each person needs to be at the peak of their mental and physical fitness . The 2024 route from January 5-19 takes the racers over dunes , mountains and the vast desert of Saudi Arabia ’ s Empty Quarter as they compete from the 1000-year-old city of Al Ula back to Yanbu . The total distance sees 4727 kilometres of timed specials and this year features a new concept – a timed 48-hour race where the competitors in the eight Bike , Quad , Car , Challenger , SSV , Truck , M1000 and Classic categories have until 4pm to reach one of eight bivouacs for the night with minimal kit and supplies available in two hours to make repairs . With 232 stage wins , the flaming orange KTM 450 has been the Dakar bike of choice this century with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing boasting defending champion Kevin Benavides
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