36ONE MTB Challenge
📍 Western Cape, South Africa
mtbgravel
Date
21–23 May 2027
Distance
356km · 196km
Elevation
4,612 m
Difficulty
gravelmtb
Munga Grit Tankwa
Karoo, South Africa · 2027
Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal
The Munga Grit Tankwa is a brutal single-stage ultra-endurance mountain bike and gravel race through the remote Tankwa Karoo in South Africa, offering distances around 160km, 230km, and over 500km. Known for its mentally challenging, non-stop format on dirt roads and farm tracks, it pushes riders to their physical and mental limits.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 160km · 230km · 500+ km
- Surface
- dirt, gravel
- Typical W/kg
- 2.8–3.6
Rider fit
Who it's for
This race is for experienced gravel and mountain bikers seeking an extreme, life-altering ultra-endurance challenge in a remote, self-sufficient format.
Who will struggle
Riders unaccustomed to multi-day, non-stop efforts, those lacking mental fortitude, or anyone unprepared for remote, challenging terrain and extreme self-reliance will find this race exceptionally difficult.
Training focus
Training should heavily prioritize long-distance endurance, mental resilience, efficient nutrition strategies, and proficiency in riding varied dirt and gravel terrain.
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 available race distance options for the Munga Grit Tankwa?+
The event offers three main options: a 100-miler (approximately 160km), a 24-hour option covering roughly 230km, and the flagship 50-hour ultra-endurance race spanning over 500km.
What type of terrain and surfaces will riders encounter?+
The route primarily consists of quiet dirt roads, private farm tracks, and remote trails, characteristic of the Tankwa Karoo region. It is suitable for both mountain bikes and gravel bikes.
What support is provided along the course?+
The 50-hour race features two fully stocked race villages offering beds, hot showers, and warm meals, plus four water points. The 24-hour race includes three water points but no race villages. JoJo tanks are also placed between water points for both longer formats. Full medical support is available.
Is navigation required, or is the route marked?+
The Munga Grit Tankwa is a GPS-only route, meaning riders are expected to follow a pre-loaded GPS track on their device; no physical navigation is required in terms of finding the route, but a GPS device is essential.
Can participants earn achievements or ranks in this series?+
Yes, by completing Munga Grit races within the allocated time, riders earn 'stripes' and promotions through a ranking system, starting as Lance Corporal and progressing to higher ranks, with separate stripes for 24-hour riders.
What are the general start and finish logistics?+
The race starts and finishes at Kaleo Guest farm near Ceres. The 50-hour race typically starts at 12 pm on a Friday afternoon, with the 100-miler starting at 7 am on Saturday morning during the race weekend.