gravelbeginner friendly

The Dirty Dish

New South Wales, Australia · 18-20 September 2026

Difficulty: 3/5 — Hard

The Dirty Dish is a gravel cycling event in Parkes, Australia, offering distances from 35km to 140km. With generally smooth champagne gravel, it promises a challenging but fun day out for riders of all abilities.

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Distances
35km · 80km · 100km · 140km
Elevation
1,122 m
Surface
gravel, dirt
Typical W/kg
2.5–3.8

Rider fit

Who it's for

Gravel and mountain bike riders looking for a fun, well-organized event with ample support and catering.

Who will struggle

Road cyclists on narrow-tire bikes will find the varied gravel surfaces challenging.

Training focus

Endurance training with an emphasis on bike handling skills for gravel, as well as aerobic fitness for the longer distances.

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 distances for The Dirty Dish?+

There are four course options available: 35km, 80km, 100km, and 140km.

What type of terrain can I expect?+

The event primarily features smooth and fast champagne gravel, with some sections potentially being dirt.

What kind of bike is recommended for this event?+

Gravel bikes with 38-48mm tires are ideal. Mountain bikes are also suitable, and e-bikes are welcome. Road bikes are not recommended.

What is included with the event entry?+

Entry includes a gravel bag, GPX files, a marked course, catered rest stops, optional bag drop, professional photography, a sausage sandwich and drink, charity donation, on-course music, mechanical support, and first aid.

What are the start times for the different loops?+

The Big Loop starts at 7:30am, the Medium Loop at 8:30am, and the Small Loop at 8:45am.

Where is the event located?+

The event is based in Parkes, a town in regional NSW, Australia, located 360 km west of Sydney.

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