The Devils Cardigan
📍 Derby (TAS), Australia
gravel
Date
20 June 2026
Distance
106 km · 54 km
Elevation
2,300 m
Difficulty
gravelbeginner friendly
Backroads Gravel
Nabawa, WA, Australia · 08 August 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
The Backroads Gravel event in Australia offers a spectrum of challenges, from beginner-friendly 10km routes to a demanding 160km course featuring over 1200m of climbing, including the notorious 'Ward's Wall.' Riders will navigate diverse gravel roads, farm tracks, and water crossings across varying terrain.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 160km · 100km · 65km · 20km · 10km
- Elevation
- 1,200 m
- Surface
- gravel, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 3–4
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event is ideal for a broad range of gravel cyclists, from children and novice riders looking for an introduction to the sport, to experienced athletes seeking a formidable endurance challenge and the opportunity to compete in state championship distances.
Who will struggle
Riders who lack preparation for sustained climbing on rough gravel surfaces, are unaccustomed to technical sections like farm tracks and water crossings, or have insufficient endurance for long distances, especially on the 100km and 160km routes, will find these courses demanding.
Training focus
Training should prioritize building gravel endurance, developing power for significant climbs such as 'Ward's Wall,' and honing bike handling skills for navigating varied surfaces and water crossings.
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 are available and what is the general terrain like?+
The event provides five different distances: 10km, 20km, 65km, 100km, and 160km. The courses predominantly feature diverse gravel roads and farm tracks, often including water crossings. The longer 160km route includes over 1200m of elevation and a challenging climb known as 'Ward's Wall,' while shorter options are suitable for new riders and younger participants.
What kind of license or membership is required to participate?+
All cyclists must have an AusCycling license. Options include an annual Race Off-Road or Race All Discipline membership, a four-week free trial membership for those who haven't had one before, or a day license which can be bought during the registration process.
Are there aid stations provided on the course?+
Yes, aid stations are available for longer distances. The 160km course has three support stations, and the 100km course is equipped with two aid stations to assist riders during their journey.
What are the specific requirements for competing in the State Championship events?+
To be eligible for the State Championship in the 160km, 100km, or 65km events, riders must be an annual AusCycling full or off-road member at the time of the event and must reside in Western Australia. A day license is not sufficient for championship qualification.
How challenging are the water crossings typically?+
The water crossings are generally manageable. For example, on the 65km route, depths will not exceed 300mm, and on the 20km course, they are usually shallow, around 200mm deep, making them generally easy to ride through under normal conditions.