South Downs 100
📍 South Downs, UK
mtbgravel
Date
4 July 2026
Distance
100 miles · 100km
Elevation
3,657 m
Difficulty
gravelbeginner friendly
Cannock Chase Gravel X
Midlands, UK · March 2027 (TBA; 2026 edition 21 March)
Difficulty: 3/5 — Hard
The Cannock Chase Gravel X offers two challenging gravel routes of 74km (1,150m elevation) and 44km (550m elevation) through the scenic Cannock Chase. The course combines forest gravel trails, quiet backroads, and farm tracks, featuring a mix of flat, fast sections, and off-road climbs.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 74km · 44km
- Elevation
- 1,150 m
- Surface
- gravel, tarmac, dirt
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event is ideal for gravel cyclists of all abilities, including new gravel riders, who are looking for an early season adventure with a mix of physical and technical challenges in a picturesque UK Midlands setting.
Who will struggle
Riders unprepared for sustained off-road climbing, potentially muddy and slippery conditions, or technical sections with tree roots on the tracks, particularly on the longer route, might find the experience demanding.
Training focus
Training should include building endurance for varied terrain, practicing climbing on mixed surfaces, and improving bike handling skills for gravel, mud, and uneven forest tracks.
Are you ready for this race?
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FAQs
What are the available route distances and elevations?+
There are two main routes: a long route covering 74km with 1,150m of climbing, and a medium route of 44km with 550m of climbing.
What type of terrain can riders expect?+
The routes feature a mix of gravel trails through the forest, quiet backroads, and farm tracks. Conditions can vary, with fast-rolling gravel and hard-packed mud in dry weather, turning slippy, muddy, and with deep puddles and tree roots in wet conditions.
Is this event suitable for beginners or less experienced riders?+
Yes, both the long and medium routes are suitable for riders of all abilities, and the medium route is specifically highlighted as a great option for new gravel riders.
What kind of bike and tires are recommended?+
Gravel bikes are ideal for this route, but a hardtail mountain bike would also be suitable. For tires, a standard all-rounder gravel tyre (35-45mm) is recommended for dry conditions, while wider, knobbly tyres are advised for wet and muddy conditions.
What support is provided during the ride?+
The event provides a fully signed route, accurate GPX files, checkpoints with proper food and drinks, mechanics available at the rider village and feed stops, and rider support vans for major mechanicals or collection.
Are there any amenities at the start/finish?+
The ride starts at Tackeroo Campsite, where a rider village is set up. At the finish line, riders will receive a beer, and food will be available from a food truck. Camping is also available on Friday and Saturday nights at Tackeroo.