Joburg is a hub for long-distance cycling races, attracting endurance athletes and cycling enthusiasts from across the country. With a mix of urban routes, scenic countryside, and challenging terrains, the city offers diverse racing experiences. Cyclists can navigate high-altitude roads, rolling hills, and technical off-road trails, testing both speed and endurance.

These races promote fitness, camaraderie, and a competitive spirit, often drawing large crowds of participants and spectators. Some of the challenges include options for the kids too, with short-distance cycle races between 1km and 5.5km, making for a fun family day out.

Ford Trailseeker #5 Bosveld MTB

Annually, between June and August

Escape from city life to an alluring bushveld trail destination with the Ford Trailseeker #5 Bosveld MTB.

Situated on Dr Swanepoel Drive in Montana, Pretoria, #5 Die Bosveld offers a sanctuary for all trail lovers. Set against the backdrop of a pristine dam and towering, tree-covered koppies, riders can be sure of captivating journeys through diverse terrains suited to all skill and fitness levels.

Race distances include a 70km marathon, a 40km half-marathon, a 20km half-marathon short, best suited to beginner mountain bikers, a 40km e-bike ride, and a 10km ride perfect for kids and families looking to enjoy some quality time together on the trails.

Another brand-new, central location in the Ford Trailseeker Series, this inclusion promises novel challenges and surprises, making it a must-not-miss event for seasoned riders and newcomers, especially as #5 Die Bosveld is the only MTB event to be hosted exclusively at this location.

Cost: R520pp (70km); R430pp (e-bike 40km); from R345pp (40km); from R228pp (20km); R240pp (10km). Book online

When: Saturday, 1 August from 8am
Where: Die Bosveld, 966W+M6, Doornpoort 295-Jr, Pretoria

Rooiwal Women’s Day Cycle Challenge

Annually in August

The Rooiwal Women’s Day Cycle Challenge is an annual cycling event held to celebrate Women’s Day while promoting fitness, empowerment, and cycling enthusiasm.

Hosted in Rooiwal, a well-known cycling area near Pretoria, the event offers riders a scenic yet challenging experience on well-maintained roads. The race typically features multiple distance options including a 95km, 50km and 26km race, catering to both competitive and recreational cyclists riding either solo or in tandem.

While the event highlights and encourages women’s participation, it remains open to all cyclists, fostering inclusivity and community spirit.

Cost: R320pp (95km); R270pp (50km); R220pp (26km). Book online

The Munga Sword Series Pretoria East

Annually

The Munga Sword Series Pretoria East is a 24-hour race built around a single lap, where riders challenge themselves to complete as many laps as possible within one day.

Each lap completed earns a rider one stripes and helps them climb through the ranks and earn respect for their grit and determination. The race is available for bike riders at every level, including endurance riders, social riders and children as well.

The event is designed for everyone who loves riding bikes, and families looking for an active day out filled with riding, camping, storytelling, and laughter.

Cost: R199-R250 U/18 (50km)(1 loop max) | R499-R600 Weekend Warriors (max 2 laps) | R999 – R1200 Mini Munga Mob (max 5 laps) | R1999 – R2400 Munga Maniac (more than 5 laps). Book online.

When: Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 September 2026 from 8am
Where: Laerskool Witpoort, 27 Garsfontein Extension, Welbekend, Bronkhorstspruit, Pretoria East

Blue Diamond Classic

Annually in September

The Blue Diamond Classic is an exciting road cycling race that starts and ends at the tranquil Casa Mia Country Estate.

The 93km distance can be covered individually or in tandem. The 27km distance can be participated in individually, in tandem, or on an e-bike. The race features 5 well-stocked water points, metro and well-trained Marshals as well as motorbikes according to CSA rules.

At the start/finish venue, there are food stalls, a kiddies race for kids aged 2 to 5, enough space for club gazebos and picnic blankets, and a swimming pool.

Cost: R520pp (93km); R320pp (23km). Book online

When: Saturday, 12 September from 7am
Where: Casa Mia Country Estate, Pretoria

Virgin Active Ride Joburg

Annually in November

Feel the wind on your face while exploring the open roads of Johannesburg as the Virgin Active Ride Joburg, in partnership with 947, makes its way back. With 26 years in the game, the event has hosted some of the most spectacular races, offering cycling enthusiasts from around the world the opportunity to explore the breathtakingly beautiful outdoor scenery for which Joburg is renowned.

There are a series of cycling categories, from road to mountain bike races and even kids’ races available. The Virgin Active Ride Joburg has got it all, with distances ranging from 1km to 97km between the three categories.

Cost: R810, book online.

When: 22 November 2026, 5am – 4pm
Where: Corner R55 &, Allandale Rd, Kyalami, Midrand, Johannesburg

2027 Joburg Cycling Races

The Grande Montecasino Classico

Annually in February/October

Set up against the backdrop of Italian-inspired architecture lies the starting point for the Montecasino Classico, which is one of the biggest cycling races of the year.

The event offers 50km and 90km routes that are designed to test the limits of human endurance and strength. It makes for an interesting experience that is both challenging and exciting for those looking to improve their personal bests. The route is similar to that of the famous Cradle of Humankind cycle race, but without some of the more strenuous ascents.

Notably, this is a very family-friendly event as Montecasino presents ample parking, ablutions, and restaurants to easily accommodate the large number of participants and their supporters, as well as a multitude of activities to keep families entertained throughout the day.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Rooiwal Valentine’s Cycle

Annually in February

The Rooiwal Valentine’s Day Challenge promises to be a great day out for all cyclists and a great way to celebrate the month of love. Ride solo or in tandem and choose from routes including a 95km, 50km, and 26km race, and put your road-cycling skills to the test.

Wear red to celebrate the season. The venue also has a bazaar for the day, so expect delicious food and nice activities available.

The cycling club with the most entries receives a gift, and clubs are welcome to set up their club gazebos for the day.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: 242 Eland Street, Waterval, Rooiwal

Luxliner Route 66 MTB Experience

Annually in February

The Luxliner Route 66 MTB Experience is back with a two-day, gravel/ MTB stage race. As one of the biggest mountain biking events in the country, the experience boasts a variety of categories for participants to choose.

From the main three-stage race to the gravel/MTB race and trail runs on offer, contestants are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to their selection of sporting activities. Also on offer in gravel/ MTB formats on the Sunday are an 80km, 60km, or 45km race.

If participants can’t join the full weekend, Sunday’s single-day rides are the chance to experience the best of the Route 66 trails: world-class riding through the heart of the Magalies mountains, with just the right mix of challenge, scenery, and satisfaction.

Plus, there are 15km, 10km, and 5km trail run/walk routes that wind through rolling hills, shaded valleys, and sweeping views of the Magaliesberg on the Saturday.

Participants can also join for a special post-race buffet lunch for R275 per person and R175 per child under 12 years on Sunday afternoon at the Cog & Sprocket. Friends, partners, significant others, and children are welcome to join. Lunch tickets can be purchased when entering online.

Cost: From R2200pp (two-day gravel experience); from R400pp (45km to 80km rides); from R130pp (5km to 15km trails). Book online

Radsport Argus Prep

Annually in February

The Radsport Argus Prep 2026 is a great ride to add to your training plan for the 2026 Cape Town Cycle Tour.

The event is also a seeding race for Ride Joburg. For those feeling race-ready, take on a challenge with the 92km ride. For those not quite ready for the full distance, there are shorter options too, including a 52km and 26km race.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: 242 Eland Street, Waterval, Rooiwal

Ride for a Reason

Annually in February/March

Ride for a Reason is an exciting mountain biking event which caters to cyclists of all skill levels, now offering four race distances: 10km, 25km, 45km, and 65km.

The event is not just about fitness and adventure but also supports Little Eden, a charity dedicated to caring for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Participants can experience scenic trails, well-marked routes, and support stations along the way. The top cyclists in each category (including ebike categories) receive prizes, and all riders completing their race earn a Mont Blanc Racing Medal.

For spectators there are family-friendly activities such as jumping castles and water slides, and the nearby Fourways Farmers Market adds a festive touch with over 100 artisanal stalls.

Cost: TBC

Easter Bunny Cycle

Annually in March

Enter the Easter Bunny Cycle and bring some Easter eggs for the underprivileged, the elderly, and children of the community, as well as the friendly marshals who keep our cyclists safe.

It’s a chance to have fun on bikes and do some good. Ride solo or in tandem and choose from routes including a 95km, 50km, and 26km race, and put your road-cycling skills to the test.

The race is a Ride Joburg 947 seeding event.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: 242 Eland Street, Waterval, Rooiwal

Emperor’s Palace Classic – TBC

Annually in March

Also known as “The Race of Dreams” the Emperor’s Palace Classic takes place each March in Kempton Park. The event is a road cycling race that consists of the 48km and 98km options. The cycling routes for the race are all beginner-friendly and suitable for all participants.

So whether you are starting out or have been cycling for years, the Emperor’s Palace Classic is all-inclusive. To ensure the safety of all cyclists, the race features clear signage and a large team of helpful security marshals as well as traffic officers to offer any assistance along the way should it be required. The routes are relatively easy to navigate with flat and smooth roads.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: Emperors Palace, Jones Road, O.R. Tambo, Gauteng

Ford Trailseeker #2 Cradle

Annually in March/May

The Ford Trailseeker #2 Cradle is a mountain biking event held as part of the larger Ford Trailseeker Series. This race is renowned for its challenging courses that take riders through rugged terrains, offering a mix of technical trails

The #2 Cradle Race specifically takes place in the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and features a variety of race distances to cater to different skill levels. This 2026, riders can take on a 70km marathon, 40km half-marathon (on bike or e-bike), 20km short half-marathon, and a 10km fun ride.

The event is designed to promote camaraderie among cyclists, with a lively atmosphere and enthusiastic volunteers cheering on competitors. The race concludes at the finish line, where participants are rewarded for their perseverance and achievement.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: Cradle Moon, Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng

Want more? See annual running races in Joburg

The Trap de Val is an annual 100-mile (162 km) mountain bike ride from Johannesburg to Mpumalanga.

The route is approximately 85% gravel roads, offering riders a mix of challenging terrains and scenic landscapes. With an elevation gain of about 960 meters, the course is designed to be accessible to a wide range of cyclists, from seasoned riders to newcomers seeking a substantial challenge.

Beyond the physical endeavour, the event is deeply rooted in philanthropy. Proceeds from the ride support the Teddy Bear Foundation, an organisation dedicated to assisting children who have experienced abuse. This charitable aspect adds a meaningful dimension to the ride, allowing participants to contribute to a significant cause while pursuing their passion for cycling.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: TBC

Western Race 4 Hope

Annually in May

Organized by the Lesedi Community Centre, the Western Race 4 Hope is a cycling event that raises awareness and funds for SASSA pensioners who have nowhere to go.

The event raises funds for establishing old-age care facilities in Heidelberg, Gauteng, and it’s also a great day out with family and friends, surrounded by nature’s beauty. The event features both running and cycling trails, with some stages involving game camps.

Cost: MTB; TBC

When:TBC
Where: TBC

Die Groot Trap

Annually in May

Die Groot Trap is a well-known road cycling race, but this year, they’re officially a mountain bike race.

Die GROOT Trap Proudly sponsored by Van Heerden Pharmacy, the race features new routes and distances for the entire family at every fitness level, including part-time cyclists looking for an easy ride and professionals seeking a challenge. 

Cost: Gravel: TBC

When: TBC
Where: TBC

Ford Trailseeker #3 Van Gaalen MTB

Annually in June

Thanks to its vibrancy, #3 Van Gaalen at Van Gaalen Cheese Farm remains a standout venue in the Ford Trailseeker MTB Series.

Known for its exceptional trails in the Magaliesberg mountain range, this park features diverse terrain, including winding singletrack, reed bed tunnels, rocky koppies, river crossings, and open grasslands.

The joys remain even after the ride, as you can visit the working cheese factory for authentic Dutch cheese and enjoy the vibrant post-race atmosphere by the riverside.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: TBC