Are you ready to challenge yourself on some of the most breathtaking mountain bike routes in South Africa? The Knysna Cycle Tour 2025 is set to take place on Saturday, 12th July, promising a thrilling adventure through scenic landscapes, indigenous forests, and exhilarating climbs. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a first-time rider, there’s a route tailored just for you!
Race Overview
All MTB rides kick off from the bottom of Simola Hill and finish at the Knysna High School sports fields. With three distance options—35km, 55km, and 85km—riders will experience a mix of tarred roads, jeep tracks, single tracks, and breathtaking contour roads. Expect fully stocked water points and medical support at key locations to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
35km Fun Ride – A Perfect Introduction to MTB Racing
Start time: After the 55km and 85km batches, grouped by bike type
Terrain: Moderate climbing, scenic ridge roads, gentle single tracks
Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
The 35km MTB Fun Ride is ideal for cyclists looking for a shorter but rewarding ride. Starting at Simola Hill, riders face a challenging 2km climb with sections up to 17% gradient. Once at the top, the reward is a stunning view of the Knysna Lagoon to the south and the lush indigenous forests to the north.
The route continues along Ridge Road, leading to Akkerkloof Dam, where riders will turn left towards a contour road featuring rolling hills and the first water point. A smooth single track takes riders back to Simola, followed by a fast-paced downhill stretch on tarred roads leading to the finish at Knysna High School sports fields.
✅ Key highlights: Simola Hill climb, scenic ridge roads, fast descents
🚴 Best for: Beginner riders looking for a fun, scenic ride with a bit of a challenge
55km MTB Ride – The Ultimate Mid-Distance Challenge
Start time: 08:00 AM
Terrain: Technical jeep tracks, single tracks, rolling hills
Difficulty: Intermediate
For those looking for an extended challenge, the 55km MTB ride follows the same initial route as the 35km event, but extends beyond the contour turn-off. Riders continue climbing along the ridge before heading onto the rugged Coffee Pot jeep track toward Uniondale, where another water point awaits.
The route then takes riders past Glebe Dam, leading to a short section on R339 Uniondale Road, before reconnecting with the contour tracks leading back towards Simola. The return follows the same exhilarating downhill as the 35km ride, finishing back at Knysna High School.
✅ Key highlights: Coffee Pot jeep track, Glebe Dam, Denron Quarries section
🚴 Best for: Riders comfortable with technical terrain and mid-distance endurance
85km MTB Ride – The Ultimate Endurance Test
Start time: 08:00 AM
Terrain: Long-distance endurance, technical descents, mix of gravel and tar
Difficulty: Advanced
For the true endurance riders, the 85km route takes the 55km challenge even further. After reaching Coffee Pot, riders continue for an additional 20km towards R339 Uniondale Road, navigating technical sections and a mix of tar and gravel. This extra stretch ensures an exhilarating and demanding ride, testing both endurance and technical skill.
The route loops back, rejoining the 55km trail at Denron Quarries, and follows the same thrilling descent back to the finish line at Knysna High School.
✅ Key highlights: Extended endurance section, gravel/tar mix, challenging technical tracks
🚴 Best for: Advanced riders seeking a true test of stamina and skill
Why You Should Join the Knysna Cycle Tour 2025
🌲 Immerse yourself in nature: Ride through lush forests, scenic ridge roads, and breathtaking viewpoints.
💪 Challenge yourself: Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a route tailored for you.
🚴 Well-supported race: Fully stocked water points, medical teams on standby, and a well-marked course.
🏁 Epic finish line experience: Celebrate your achievement at the vibrant Knysna High School sports fields.
Register Now!
Spots are filling fast, so don’t miss your chance to be part of the Knysna Cycle Tour 2025. Sign up today and get ready for an unforgettable mountain biking experience!
📍 Event Date: Saturday, 12th July 2025
📍 Start Location: Bottom of Simola Hill
📍 Finish Location: Knysna High School Sports Fields
Visit [Knysna Cycle Tour Website] to register now!
#KnysnaCycleTour #MTBChallenge #CyclingKnysna #AdventureAwaits
