Endurance riding is essentially XC over long distances. Endurance racing is much more informal than other types of MTB racing and is usually done in teams or partnerships. It also has a great social element with overnight camps, exhibits and after-race festivities.

Endurance XC races can cover very long distances or include many laps. Some races last a couple of days but most are run over either 8, 12 or 24 hours. The aim of these races are to cover as much distance as possible within the time limit. Teams send riders out individually as a relay, while solo competitors continue to ride as much as they can. Riders are assisted by support crews who provide food, hydration and mechanical support during the race.

Another example of endurance riding involves a navigation element. Teams of riders use maps and compasses to locate checkpoints which have different score values. Checkpoints that are difficult to find typically have higher score values while those that are easy to get to have a lower score. The aim of these events are to get as many points as possible within the set time limit which can be between 2 hours to 2 days.

Endurance bikes are designed to be light but comfortable. Bikes are generally heavier than XC bikes and have more suspension travel.