MTB Events: 35km, 55km & 85km Rides
Saturday, 12 July 2025
Gear up for an unforgettable off-road adventure at the Knysna Cycle Tour 2025 MTB Races! Taking place on Saturday, 12 July 2025, this exciting mountain bike event offers three incredible routes — 35km, 55km, and 85km — each winding through the lush indigenous forests, jeep tracks, single tracks, and scenic ridges of the Garden Route.
Starting at the bottom of Simola Hill and finishing at the vibrant Knysna High School Sports Fields (the Oyster Festival hub), the MTB routes cater for every rider — from relaxed beginners to hardcore endurance enthusiasts.
Expect a well-supported, thrilling ride with spectacular views, challenging climbs, and fast descents — all while enjoying the unmatched natural beauty of Knysna.
MTB Race Highlights
Distances: 35km, 55km & 85km
Date & Time: Saturday, 12 July 2025
Start from 08:00
Start Location: Bottom of Simola Hill, Knysna
- Finish location: Knysna High School Sports Field (Oyster Festival Venue)
- Multiple fully stocked water points on all routes
35km MTB Fun Ride
Perfect for beginner to intermediate riders
Moderate climbs, scenic ridge roads, and smooth single tracks
2km Simola Hill climb to start
1 Water Point
55km MTB Ride
Follows 35km route initially, then extends to rugged Coffee Pot jeep track and Glebe Dam
Technical sections and undulating terrain
2 Water Points
85km MTB Ride
Advanced endurance challenge
Extends beyond the 55km route to R339 Uniondale Road
Technical descents, gravel/tar mix, and multiple climbs
3 Water Points
Mountain Bike Routes
35KM MTB
The 35km MTB route is ideal for those looking for a fun yet challenging ride. This route features a combination of smooth singletrack, winding forest paths, and a few technical sections, making it perfect for intermediate riders. Cyclists will enjoy scenic views of Knysna’s forests and hills, while tackling moderate climbs and exciting descents. The route offers a great way to experience Knysna’s natural beauty without overextending yourself. It’s an excellent choice for riders who want a shorter, more manageable mountain biking adventure.
55km MTB
The 55km MTB route is a step up, offering more variety and technical challenges. Riders will traverse diverse terrain, including rocky sections, forest trails, and fast-flowing singletrack. Expect to encounter more demanding climbs and thrilling descents, along with sweeping views of Knysna’s countryside. This route is perfect for those who are comfortable with longer rides and want to experience the full range of terrain that Knysna mountain biking has to offer. It’s a true test of endurance, balance, and skill.
85km MTB
The 85km MTB route is the ultimate challenge for seasoned mountain bikers. This demanding route takes you deeper into Knysna’s forests, featuring rugged terrain, steep climbs, and technical descents that will put your biking skills to the test. The elevation profile offers challenging ascents, fast drops, and plenty of tight corners. Along the way, riders will be rewarded with stunning views of the Outeniqua Mountains and Knysna coastline. This route is designed for advanced riders who seek a tough and rewarding mountain biking experience.
