2026
RACE CALENDAR
DETAILS bROUGHT TO YOU BY SOLOMONS CYCLES
2026
Racing
Calendar
DETAILS bROUGHT TO YOU BY SOLOMONS CYCLES
Race Events 2026
A dynamic calendar of cycling experiences designed for riders of all levels. From relaxed community rides to more demanding challenges, the events promote active living, camaraderie, and a shared passion for cycling. With an emphasis on safety, accessibility, and enjoyment creating memorable riding opportunities for individuals, families, and cycling enthusiasts throughout the year.
January 17 2026
The Attakwas Extreme is South Africa’s toughest one-day mountain bike race, taking place on 17 January 2026. Known for brutal climbs and legendary status, it’s a must-do challenge for serious MTB riders.
Entree Fees
Extreme
124km
R1750
Half
47km
R390
Mini
32km
R210
5-8 February 2026
The Tankwa Trek takes place from 5-8 February 2026. This iconic four-day MTB stage race is an early-season UCI event and a popular Cape Epic warm-up, known for tough terrain and striking Karoo scenery.
Entree Fees
Over 4 days
267km
R14 950
5-15 February 2026
The PE Herald Cycle Tour celebrates 40 years in 2026 with multiple events: MTB on 8 February, Road on 15 February, plus Junior and Quest events across the same weekend, making it one of South Africa’s iconic cycling classics.
Entree Fees
MTB
5 – 106 km
R110 – R840
Road
2 – 106km
R110 – R840
Junior
500m – 5km
R110 – R150
Ultimate
80km – 106km
R840
19-22 February 2026
The M&G Investments PE to Plett is a four-day MTB stage race from 19-22 February 2026, following the stunning Garden Route. Open to 250 riders, it’s perfect for racers and riders seeking a scenic, challenging adventure.
Entree Fees
Ride only
4 Days
R5 000
Day Ripper
280km
R2 940
28 Feb – 9 March 2026
Tourdeboland is a week-long recreational cycling holiday in the Western Cape, South Africa. Ride through vineyards, olive groves, and mountain passes at a comfortable pace, with luggage transport, support, and mechanical assistance provided.
Entree Fees
Sharing- Extended
6 or 10 Days
R24 700 – R46 200
8 March 2026
The Cape Town Cycle Tour is a 109 km ride around the Cape Peninsula, featuring full road closures, lively roadside support, and stunning ocean views from Chapman’s Peak-truly a South African cycling bucket-list experience.
Entree Fees
General Entry
109km
R940
19 April 2026
Anybody who wants to be part of Durban’s favourite weekend of cycling. For 2026 the aQuellé Tour Durban returns to its roots as a only a road race with four “fun-ride” distances and a unique invitational event for the racing snakes.
Entry Fees
Entree Fees
28km – 100km Aquelle Tour
Durban
R300 – R1 450
18 April 2026
The Nelson Mandela Bay IRONMAN is Africa’s premier triathlon, celebrating its 21st year in 2026. Set along a stunning beachside course, it’s known for epic challenges, passionate crowds, and crowning athletes with the ultimate endurance title.
Individual Entry
Swim : 3.8km | Bike : 180km | Run : 42.2km
R9 410
7 – 9 May 2026
The KAP sani2c is a three-day, 270- kilometre mountain bike stage race, which takes place in the south-eastern province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in South Africa.
Individuals
Entree Fees
Entree Fees
Individuals
263km
R13 000
2 Person Team
263km
R11 750 pp
22 – 24 May 2026
When all trails lead to the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the Klein Karoo, you know you’re in for something special. This is one of South Africa’s ultimate endurance races—covering 361 km with a strict 36.1-hour cut-off.While it remains a true mountain bike challenge at heart, riders now have the option to tackle it on either a gravel bike or a mountain bike—so choose your weapon wisely.Not ready for the full distance? Take on The Half, or join forces in The Relay as a team of 2 or 4 for an equally thrilling experience.
Entree Fees
Main Race
361km
Cutoff : 36.1hrs
Solo- R840
2 Team -R7400
Half Race
189 km
Solo- R2150
2 Team -R4300
Relay
361km
±90 km per rider
4 Team -R6,000
Relay
361km
±180 km per rider
2 Team -R5,400
30 May 2026
Set under the theme “Beyond the Horizon,” it comes at the end of the month and follows closely after a 1200 km AUDAX ride for some riders, making it a true test of endurance and recovery.Two distances are offered: 161 km Race to the Sun: A fast, exhilarating gravel race from Hartbeespoort Dam to Sun City. Open to riders of all levels, it features smooth, flowing gravel roads, long open sections, and around 1,000 m of elevation gain. It rewards strong pacing and sustained speed across rolling terrain. 80 km Race to the Sun: A shorter option that still follows the same iconic route, delivering a fast and scenic gravel experience that is more accessible but equally rewarding.Both distances showcase the wide-open beauty of the North West Province, combining speed, scenery, and a memorable finish at the legendary Sun City resort.
Entree Fees
Individuals
161 km
R1,650
Individuals
80 km
R950
18-24 June 2026
The Freedom Trail was founded in 2004 by David Waddilove as a mountain bike route across South Africa. It was created to honour the country’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and spirit of endurance by retracing forgotten paths once used for travel and trade.Riders can take on the traditional FREEDOM Challenge—an uncompromising, navigation-based journey completed without GPS, staying true to the original spirit of exploration and self-reliance. This demanding route tests not only physical strength but also mental resilience, route-finding skill, and the ability to adapt to ever-changing conditions. It’s a true adventure in its purest form, where every kilometre earned reflects determination, grit, and a deep connection to the landscape.
Entree Fees
Individuals
2,150 km
Early entry:
R49,500
Normal entry:
R55,000
Late entry:
R56,000
25 July 2026
Riders will set off from Swellendam, taking on 155 km (100 miles) of fast, flowing gravel roads as they push toward the iconic Potberg mountains. The opening section demands rhythm and focus, with long open stretches that test both endurance and pacing.From there, the route leads into Ouplaas, where riders enter a 30-minute neutral zone to regroup, refuel, and prepare for the final effort. Once back on the bike, the last 60 km delivers a strong closing challenge as the course winds its way back toward Swellendam. At the finish, the Gravel King and Queen are crowned each year. Set in one of South Africa’s most breathtaking and rugged regions, this route is as rewarding as it is demanding—requiring full attention, smart riding, and real determination from start to finish.
Entree Fees
Individuals
2,150 km
Navigation: NO GPS allowed (map & compass only)
Early entry:
R49,500
Normal entry:
R55,000
Late entry:
R56,000
8 August 2026
The TransBaviaans is one of South Africa’s most iconic overnight mountain bike challenges, taking riders deep into the rugged beauty of the Baviaanskloof wilderness. Covering approximately 230 km in a single stage, it is a true test of endurance, teamwork, and mental grit.Riders set off late in the day and ride through the night, tackling remote gravel passes, river crossings, and long stretches of untamed terrain under the stars. With a 24-hour cut-off, it demands careful pacing, strong navigation of fatigue, and a solid partnership between riding teammates.Far more than just a race, TransBaviaans is an adventure through one of the country’s most remote and breathtaking regions—where endurance meets raw natural beauty, and every kilometre feels earned.
Entree Fees
Team of 2
230 km
Time limit: 24 hours
Early entry:
R3,750 pp
Normal entry:
R3,950 pp
Late entry:
R4,100 pp
5 September 2026
A fast-rolling gravel adventure awaits—either 64 km from Franschhoek to Hermanus, or the extended 82 km route from Caledon to Hermanus. The Franschhoek option flows through endless orchards, golden canola fields, and past towering wind turbines, with mountain ranges stretching across the horizon for miles—an immersive ride through some of the Cape’s most scenic farmland. The Caledon route turns up the pace even more, delivering pure speed across rolling gravel roads. Riders sweep through vast canola fields and beneath wind turbines, with wide-open views and flowing terrain built for strong efforts and big moves.Both routes promise fast riding, epic scenery, and an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Overberg.
Entree Fees
Individuals
164 km (Franschhoek → Hermanus)
R1,650 pp
Individuals
82 km (Caledon → Hermanus)m
R1,650 pp
10 -17 September 2026
From Clarens to Ballito—7 unforgettable days of riding through the heart of South Africa. Spend 2 nights in Berg & Bush country, carving through world-class single track and soaking in the raw beauty of the Drakensberg region.Take on an epic single-track experience through the Karkloof Nature Reserve, where flowing trails and indigenous forest create an unforgettable ride. Then journey through the breathtaking, untouched valleys of Zululand—routes seldom travelled and newly explored, offering a true sense of adventure and discovery.Wrap it all up on the legendary Holla Trails, known for their fast, fun coastal riding. Finish with a spectacular ride onto the beach at Salt Rock, just north of Durban—the perfect ending to an unforgettable journey of endurance, scenery, and pure trail riding exhilaration.
Entree Fees
Individuals
600km
R25,900
2 Person Team
600km
22 – 26 September 2026
Now in its 3rd edition since its rebirth, the Cape Pioneer has evolved into a more refined but still demanding stage race. While the name and format may be shorter, each stage remains as tough as it is rewarding, delivering a true test of endurance and skill.Over the past 17 years, the event has explored some of South Africa’s most iconic terrain—from Prince Albert to Riversdale, and Calitzdorp to Mossel Bay—crossing rivers, mountain ranges, and even overcoming natural disasters and global challenges along the way.The 2026 route promises to be the most refined yet, showcasing a carefully crafted journey through the Karoo and Garden Route. Riders can expect a diverse mix of terrain, stunning scenery, and physically demanding stages that deliver both challenge and reward in equal measure.
Entree Fees
Individuals
500 km across multiple stages
R23,200
2 Person Team
500 km across multiple stages
R46,600
27 September 2026
The Lions Karoo to Coast Mountain Bike Challenge is a legendary 100 km off-road race from Uniondale to Knysna, following the historic Prince Alfred’s Pass. This challenging yet rewarding route takes riders through some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes, blending rugged mountain climbs, flowing gravel roads, and scenic forest sections. The scenery shifts dramatically from the dry Karoo into the lush greenery of the Garden Route. While fully supported and rideable, the course is both scenic and demanding, requiring proper preparation and endurance. Riders are encouraged to train well to fully enjoy the experience rather than just endure it. More than a race, it’s a memorable journey across diverse terrain—ending with a rewarding descent into Knysna.
Entree Fees
Team of 2
100 km (Uniondale → Knysna via Prince Alfred’s Pass)
R950 pp
25 – 31 October 2026
The Nedbank Gravel Burn is a premier solo gravel stage race that spans 7 demanding days across South Africa’s Western Cape and Eastern Cape. Covering approximately 800 km with around 10,000–11,000 metres of climbing, the route delivers a true test of endurance, consistency, and mental strength. Each stage presents a unique challenge, with a mix of fast-rolling gravel, rugged climbs, remote backroads, and ever-changing terrain.Riders journey through some of the country’s most striking landscapes, from the wide-open spaces of the Karoo to the rolling hills and coastal approaches of the Garden Route. The conditions vary daily, demanding smart pacing, strong recovery, and careful management over the full week. As a solo stage race, Gravel Burn places full responsibility on each rider, making it as much about strategy and resilience as it is about speed. It is a complete gravel experience—raw, beautiful, and relentlessly challenging from start to finish.
Entree Fees
Individuals
800 km over 7 days
R54,990
25 October 2026
Who would have thought that Johannesburg could feel more up-and-down than even Cape Town? This is your chance to truly own the streets of Joburg as you ride along the iconic M1 highway, experiencing the city from a completely new perspective. Feel the adrenaline surge as you race on the legendary Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, a rare opportunity to ride where motorsport history has been made. From there, the route pushes you through the heart of the city’s energy and character, before culminating in a powerful finish at the iconic FNB Stadium in Soweto, where your achievement is celebrated in true Johannesburg style. With two distances on offer—the challenging 97 km Road Race and the more accessible 35 km Short Ride—there’s an option for every level of rider. Whether you’re chasing speed, endurance, or simply the experience of riding through one of Africa’s most dynamic cities, this event delivers it all. Enter now and experience Ride Joburg at its absolute best—fast roads, legendary landmarks, and an unforgettable urban cycling adventure
Entree Fees
Individuals
97 km Road Race
R810
Individuals
35 km Short Ride
R495
21 November 2026
The Old Mutual Double Century (DC) is one of South Africa’s most prestigious and iconic team road cycling events, held annually in the scenic Overberg region of the Western Cape. Covering a demanding 202 km route, this is not just a race of speed, but a true test of teamwork, strategy, and endurance. Teams of riders work together to complete the distance within strict cut-off times, navigating rolling hills, coastal winds, and challenging climbs that define the character of the course. Starting and finishing in Swellendam, the route loops through breathtaking landscapes including the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains, open farmlands, and sweeping gravel-free tar roads designed for fast-paced team riding. Smooth surfaces and long stretches make it ideal for well-drilled teams aiming for strong cohesion and rhythm.More than just a cycling event, the Double Century is about unity—where communication, pacing, and discipline matter just as much as physical strength. With professional organisation, roadside support, and a festive atmosphere at the finish, it delivers a world-class team cycling experience that is as rewarding as it is demanding.
Entree Fees
Team size: 6–12 riders
202 km
R13,250 per team
25 – 30 November 2026
The Munga is a brutal ultra-endurance mountain bike race that stretches over just more than 1,000 kilometres of unforgiving terrain. It is designed as one of the toughest off-road challenges in South Africa, testing riders both physically and mentally from start to finish. Along the route, there are five designated race villages where riders can rest, refuel, and receive mechanical support. These villages act as key recovery points in an otherwise continuous and demanding journey. In addition, the course features ten water points, spaced roughly 60 to 90 kilometres apart, ensuring riders have access to essential hydration and basic supplies between villages. Everything needed to continue the race—food, water, and limited support—is provided at these official stops. The Munga is a semi-supported event, meaning riders receive assistance only at race villages and water points. Outside of these locations, there is no external support allowed along the route, making self-reliance, planning, and resilience critical to completing the race. Ultimately, The Munga is not just about distance—it’s about endurance, strategy, and the ability to survive one of the most remote and demanding gravel and dirt road challenges in the world.
Entree Fees
Individuals
1,000 km ultra-endurance mountain bike race
Early entry:
R26,900 pp
Normal entry:
R29,999 pp
