36ONE MTB Challenge
📍 Western Cape, South Africa
mtbgravel
Date
21–23 May 2027
Distance
356km · 196km
Elevation
4,612 m
Difficulty
mtb
Absa Cape Epic
Western Cape, South Africa · 21–28 March 2027
Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal
The Absa Cape Epic is an 8-day, 650km, 15,500m climbing mountain bike stage race in South Africa's Western Cape, renowned as a physically gruelling and mentally demanding event.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 650KM
- Elevation
- 15,500 m
- Surface
- singletrack, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 4.5–5.5
Rider fit
Who it's for
This race is for professional and serious amateur mountain bikers who seek the ultimate test of endurance, skill, and resilience in a two-person team format.
Who will struggle
Riders without extensive experience in multi-day mountain bike stage racing, advanced technical skills, high fitness, and mental fortitude will find this event extremely challenging.
Training focus
Training should focus on extreme endurance, technical mountain bike handling skills for rugged and rocky terrain, mental resilience, and effective teamwork.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What is the Absa Cape Epic?+
The Absa Cape Epic is recognized as the world’s premier and most televised mountain bike stage race, classified as hors catégorie by the UCI, taking place over eight days in South Africa’s Western Cape.
What are the key statistics for the 2027 race?+
The 2027 Absa Cape Epic spans 8 days, covers a distance of 650KM, and includes 15,500M of climbing.
What kind of terrain will riders encounter?+
The race follows a different route each year, leading riders through rugged terrain, up rocky climbs, and down thrilling technical descents across the Western Cape region.
How can riders enter the Absa Cape Epic?+
Entry is typically secured through the 'Rite of Passage' waiting list, from which riders are randomly selected for a chance to participate.
Who typically participates in the Absa Cape Epic?+
The race attracts professional and serious amateur entrants from around the world, competing in two-person teams.
What qualities does the race test in a rider?+
It is described as a test of skill, fitness, partnership, equipment, and mettle, pushing competitors to their physical and mental limits.