Pikes Peak APEX
📍 Colorado, USA
gravelmtbBeginner friendly
Date
13-14 June 2026
Distance
135 miles · 65 miles · 25 miles
Elevation
3,353 m
Difficulty
mtbbeginner friendly
Life Time Big Sugar Classic
Arkansas, USA · 11 October 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
The Life Time Big Sugar Classic offers a challenging 100km mountain bike race featuring significant elevation gain, technical rock features, and fast descents across the Ozarks. Shorter 50km and 20km options provide accessible entry points for varying skill levels.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 100km · 50km · 20km
- Elevation
- 1,707 m
- Surface
- singletrack, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 3.2–4.5
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event caters to a wide range of mountain bikers, from casual riders and families looking for a fun 20km experience to experienced endurance athletes seeking a demanding 100km challenge with technical trails.
Who will struggle
Riders unprepared for sustained climbing, technical singletrack, or the endurance required for the longer distances will find this race particularly difficult.
Training focus
Training should prioritize consistent climbing power, technical trail handling skills, and endurance building, especially for the longer 100km course.
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 options and general terrain?+
The event offers 100km, 50km, and 20km courses. Riders will traverse challenging mountain bike trails in the Ozarks, featuring grinding climbs, fast descents, technical rock sections, and scenic views, with even the shortest course designed for enjoyment.
Are there specific bike requirements or prohibited gear?+
Yes, participants must use mountain bikes with flat or riser-style handlebars. Drop bars, aerobars, bar extensions, or clip-on attachments are strictly prohibited for safety and course compatibility.
What kind of support can riders expect on the course?+
Aid stations will provide neutral mechanical support, water, sports nutrition products like bars, chews, and gels, along with snacks such as chips, cookies, and bananas. However, personal support crews are generally not permitted on course, with one designated aid station exception for support at TH Rogers Lumber Yard.
Are there cut-off times for completing the race?+
Yes, cut-off times are enforced at checkpoints along the course to ensure rider safety. These are based on maintaining an average speed of 6 mph.
How should I navigate the course?+
The course will be marked with flagging tape, pin flags, and some signage. However, using a GPS device for navigation is highly recommended for all participants.
Is there parking available at the start line?+
Limited parking is available directly at the Coler MTB Preserve start. It is strongly recommended to park in Downtown Bentonville and ride the 2.7-mile commute to the start line as a warm-up.