Absa Cape Epic
📍 Western Cape, South Africa
mtb
Date
21–28 March 2027
Distance
650KM
Elevation
15,500 m
Difficulty
mtbgravel
Attakwas Extreme
Klein Karoo, South Africa · 16 January 2027
Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal
The Attakwas Extreme offers a brutal 120km mountain biking challenge, complemented by shorter 47km and 32km routes. Known for its demanding terrain and an 11-hour cut-off for the main event, it truly lives up to its 'Extreme' designation.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 120KM · 47KM · 32KM
- Elevation
- 2,900 m
- Surface
- gravel, dirt, singletrack
- Typical W/kg
- 2.8–4
Rider fit
Who it's for
The 120km Attakwas Extreme is designed for experienced mountain bikers seeking a formidable test of endurance and skill, while the Half and Mini distances cater to intermediate riders or those new to off-road endurance events.
Who will struggle
Riders lacking extensive endurance training, technical off-road skills, or the mental fortitude required for long, challenging conditions will likely find the 120km Attakwas Extreme particularly difficult.
Training focus
The official training plan emphasizes a balanced approach to endurance, speed, strength, and recovery strategies, crucial for successfully tackling the diverse climbs and descents of the race.
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 distances and categories are available for the race?+
The event offers three distances: the 120km Attakwas Extreme, 47km Attakwas Half, and 32km Attakwas Mini. Categories for the Extreme include UCI Elite, Open, Sub Veteran, Veteran, Master, and Grand Master. The Half and Mini races feature separate Men's and Women's categories, including E-bike options for both.
When and where can participants register for the races?+
Primary registration occurs on Friday, 15 January 2027, from 13:00 to 20:00 at Klein Karoo Toyota in Oudtshoorn. For the Half and Mini races specifically, an additional registration opportunity is available on Saturday, 16 January 2027, from 08:00 to 09:30 at Pine Creek Resort in Great Brak.
Are there cut-off times for the Attakwas Extreme?+
Yes, there are cut-off times at six water points along the route to ensure rider safety. The final cut-off time at the finish line for the 120km race is 11 hours from your individual start time, after which riders will be removed from the course without exception.
Can I arrange for bicycle transport or a car drive service?+
Yes, bicycle transport services are available from Pretoria and Johannesburg through Joggie's Bicycle Transport and Echelon Bike Transport. Additionally, a car drive service can transport your vehicle from the race start to the finish for R1500, limited to 150 cars.
What is the policy for refunds and substitutions?+
Refunds are processed on a sliding scale: 90% until 16 August 2026, 50% until 16 November 2026, and 20% until 16 December 2026, with no refunds thereafter. Substitutions are permitted until 06 January 2027 for a fee of R400 per transfer.
How is race seeding determined for participants?+
Seeding is based on fully paid entries received by 30 November 2025. Entries made after this date will not be seeded, and any rider substitutions will inherit the previous participant's seeding batch. Seeding queries will not be handled after 6 January 2027.