Fellows Ride Suhl – 2026
Fellows Ride Suhl – Riding with Heart Through the Thuringian Forest
On September 12, 2026, the Platz der Deutschen Einheit in Suhl once again becomes the starting point for a remarkable motorcycle demonstration: The Fellows Ride Suhl brings together bikers from across Thuringia and beyond to take a stand against depression and for mental health awareness. Under the motto ‘with open visor for depression support’ (‘mit offenem Visier für Depressionshilfe’), participants ride through one of Germany’s most beautiful motorcycling regions – the Thuringian Forest.
The Fellows Ride initiative was founded by Dieter Schneider and has grown into one of the largest charity motorcycle movements in the German-speaking world. In more than 20 cities across Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and since 2026 also in the United States, dedicated motorcyclists demonstrate for a cause that remains heavily stigmatized: depression affects approximately 5.3 million people in Germany each year, and the suicide rate of over 9,000 deaths annually is three times higher than the number of road traffic fatalities.
The Route Through Southern Thuringia
The approximately 160-kilometer route leads from Suhl through Oberhof and Zella-Mehlis to Meiningen, where an intermediate rally takes place, then continues through Hildburghausen and Schleusingen back to Suhl. The route offers impressive curves and panoramic views of the Thuringian Forest – accompanied by police escort ensuring a safe and unobstructed ride.
Schedule
From 9:00 AM, participants gather at the Platz der Deutschen Einheit in Suhl. At 10:30 AM, the convoy sets off. Following the demonstration, there is traditionally the opportunity to visit the Suhl Vehicle Museum – a true highlight for motorcycle enthusiasts with its extensive collection of historic motorcycles from Suhl’s manufacturing heritage (Simson, MZ).
Participation and Donations
Participation in the Fellows Ride is free of charge and open to all motorcyclists – regardless of brand, displacement, or riding experience. What matters is the common cause. Donations go to the Stiftung Depression-Inklusion (Depression-Inclusion Foundation) by Thomas Lurz and Dieter Schneider, supporting concrete projects for depression support and suicide prevention.
Accommodation
For participants traveling from further away, partner hotels are available: The ACHAT Hotel in Suhl and the Hotel Stadt Suhl in Zella-Mehlis support the event as official accommodation partners.
