Nestled within the diverse landscapes of South Africa, a distinctive breed of cycling events has emerged, captivating the hearts of enthusiasts and adventurers alike – Gravalist. a pure breed of unsupported Bike Packing Races. With an exclusive cap of 13 riders per event, the growing 500 Series promises a thrilling challenge, merging the passion for biking with the exploration of unique landscapes across the country.
Event Categories
The Unsupported Bike Packing Races encompass two distinct categories, ensuring a diverse range of experiences for participants. The solo category, with five available slots, offers individual cyclists the chance to test their mettle against rugged terrains and unpredictable elements. Simultaneously, the touring category accommodates eight entries for pairs and tourers, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences amidst the challenging journey.
New Horizons Explored in 2023
Celebrating personal achievement of over 40 riders in 2023, the Gravalist are expanded the event horizon in 2023 by introducing new and exciting route formats and races that traverse the spectacular landscapes of South Africa. These races promise an unparalleled adventure, with only a bicycle capable of navigating the untamed paths leading to breathtaking destinations. The exhilaration of conquering unexplored terrains sets these races apart, allowing participants to revel in the sense of accomplishment on two wheels.
Inclusion of e-bikes: AI Bold Decision
An intriguing update for the upcoming races is the inclusion of e-bikes. The question arises – can an unsupported e-bike outperform its analogue counterpart over 500kms? Each route and event will bring its unique challenges, promising a spectacle of automation versus humans in 2024. Details about this unconventional addition are shrouded in mystery, with the Gravalist set to unveil more information in an update soon. This bold move adds an extra layer of excitement to the already thrilling races, leaving participants and spectators eager to discover how the inclusion of e-bikes will factor into the unsupported bike-packing experience.
Race Calendar
The calendar for the upcoming races in 2024 and early 2025 is as follows:
- Burra 500 - 14th June 2024
- Ceres 500 - 9th August 2024
- Sedgefield 500 - 6th September 2024
- Cape Hope 500 - 11th October 2024
- Egoli 500 - 6th December 2024
- Franschhoek 500 - 27th December 2024
- Maloti Rhodes Mountain Race (1700 km) - 31st January 2025
As the anticipation builds and the race season draws near, participants are encouraged to choose their preferred events, secure their entries, and embark on a journey of rigorous training and preparation. The Unsupported Bike Packing Races offer more than just a physical challenge; they provide an opportunity to connect with the unique landscapes of South Africa, fostering a sense of accomplishment that only the adventurous spirit can truly understand. Whether riding solo or with a partner, these races promise an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary, making them a must-attend for cycling enthusiasts seeking the ultimate test of skill, endurance, and exploration.
