Unbound Gravel 200
📍 Kansas, Flint Hills, USA
gravel
Date
3–6 June 2027
Distance
200mi · 100mi · 50mi · 25mi
Elevation
2,800 m
Difficulty
gravel
Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona
Arizona, USA · Late March 2027 (unannounced)
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
Covering up to 122 miles of demanding Sonoran Desert terrain, this premier gravel race challenges riders with technical singletrack, sandy washes, and punishing 20% paved climbs. Serving as the opening round of the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, it tests endurance and bike handling on a unique mix of off-road sectors and smooth tarmac.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 33.4 miles · 68.3 miles · 103 miles · 122 miles
- Elevation
- 2,286 m
- Surface
- gravel, tarmac, singletrack, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 3–4.5
Rider fit
Who it's for
This race is designed for seasoned endurance cyclists and gravel racers who thrive on highly varied, technical desert terrain and steep, punchy climbs.
Who will struggle
Cyclists lacking off-road handling skills or those unprepared for double-digit climbing gradients and tire-shredding desert singletrack will find this course exceptionally difficult.
Training focus
Prioritize building muscular endurance for long dirt sectors, explosive power to conquer 20% road pitches, and technical handling skills for loose sand and singletrack.
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 are the distance and elevation profiles for the different routes?+
Historically, the event features three main routes: the Waffle at 103 miles with roughly 7,500 feet of climbing, the Wafer at 68.3 miles with 4,000 feet of climbing, and the Wanna at 33.4 miles with 3,500 feet of climbing. The 2026 long course is expected to be roughly 122 miles.
What types of surfaces will I encounter during the race?+
Riders will face a highly dynamic mix of technical singletrack in McDowell Mountain Regional Park, sandy desert washes, gravel roads, and connecting segments of smooth pavement.
Are there local bike shops available for shipping or mechanical support?+
Yes, local support is available through Flat Tire Bike Shop in Cave Creek, Grind and Gears in Carefree, and McDowell Mountain Cycles/Fountain Hills Bikes.
What is included in the rider registration?+
Every participant receives a Neversecond musette bag with sponsor swag, BWR Bucks for partner brands, an RFID timing tag, pre- and post-race waffles with coffee and beer, and a finisher's trophy beer.
How are the age groups structured for competition?+
Age group categories are determined by the rider's age as of December 31, 2025, ranging from 18 & Under up to 60–64, with podium recognition for the top performers.