Unbound Gravel 200
📍 Kansas, Flint Hills, USA
Iowa, USA · 14-15 August 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
Core4 is a multi-surface gravel race in Iowa, offering distances up to 193km, challenging riders with a dynamic mix of gravel, B-roads, singletrack, and pavement. While providing options for all skill levels, the longer courses are designed to push participants to their limits.
Visit official site →This event is ideal for cyclists seeking a diverse terrain challenge and a vibrant community experience, with options ranging from leisurely shorter rides to demanding pro-level endurance tests.
Riders who are unprepared for significant mileage on varied surfaces, including technical singletrack and rugged B-roads, or those lacking the endurance for an all-day effort, particularly on the longest course, will find it challenging.
Training should prioritize developing robust bike handling skills for multi-surface transitions, technical singletrack, and B-roads, alongside building endurance for sustained efforts over long distances.
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
The core4 race offers multiple distances to choose from, including 193km (120 miles), 113km (70 miles), 97km (60 miles, specifically for USAC juniors), 64km (40 miles), and a 32km (20 miles) option.
Riders will experience a diverse multi-surface course that includes champagne gravel roads, rugged B-roads, flowing singletrack, and speedy paved sections, ensuring no surface is untouched.
The race is set through the landscapes around and within the metro of Iowa City, Iowa, beginning in a rural setting north of the city at Wilson's Orchard.
Yes, core4 includes a 120-mile solo or team of three option, along with specific pro/elite race information and a 120-mile category for GES pros. There's also a 60-mile USAC juniors race.
Yes, core4 is designed with courses offering something for every skill level, including shorter distances like the 20-mile and 40-mile options which do not include singletrack.
Core4 promises a fantastic weekend of cycling and community celebration, featuring pre-celebrations and après delights, with food, drinks, music, and a vibrant afterparty.
📍 Kansas, Flint Hills, USA
📍 Colorado, USA
📍 North Carolina, USA