Past Event
GRAVEL
Franschhoek 500
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa
500 KMS
Distance
500 km
Surface
Gravel
Difficulty
Moderate
TERRAIN
HEAT
What to Expect on Egoli 500
Once upon a time, amidst the vast South African landscape, there was a place known as the City of Gold. In the late 19th century, tales of adventure, exploration, and the pursuit of riches all came from the beautiful Johannesburg.
The Egoli 500 is a bikepacking adventure that will take you across this stunning region, where adventurers have come to roam to find riches and create a legacy. We want to show you the best it has to offer on two wheels, from culture to industry, and immerse you in the rich history.
This self-supported bikepacking event is designed to challenge you on many levels, mentally, physically, and spiritually. It’s going to push limits and send you on a journey of self-discovery that will open your mind and give you a better understanding of who you are and what you can do.
The Egoli 500 is a hand-picked route from local experts. It’s 500 km long, and the event is limited to only 13 participants. Some choose to race and be the first to finish, while others enjoy the journey over a long weekend. How you want to enjoy the kilometers is up to you, but after the start, it’s completely self-sufficient.
So take your adventurous spirit and dare to dream. Find your fortune on the Egoli 500, travel in the tracks of many other adventurers, and embrace the journey through a beautiful region full of history and times past.
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Bike Setup for Egoli 500
Bike
Gravel Bike
Tires
45-50mm Tubeless
Cassette
10-51T
Chainring
38-40T (1x)
Your Next Challenge
Based on this event's terrain, difficulty and riding style you might like these ultra events.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Egoli 500?
At 500 km, Egoli 500 is roughly the distance of 12 marathons back to back.
What bike do I need?
Egoli 500's terrain calls for a Gravel Bike, ideally running 45-50mm Tubeless tires. On the drivetrain side, a 38-40T (1x) chainring matched to a 10-51T cassette gives enough range for the climbing involved.
How difficult is it?
We rate Egoli 500 as Moderate overall. Riders should be ready for rough, technical terrain for a good stretch of the route, and warm, with a real chance of hot conditions conditions.
When does it take place?
Egoli 500 takes place on December 27, 2025. That puts it in summer, with long daylight hours, though heat can become a real factor.
What surface is it?
Surface-wise, expect gravel throughout Egoli 500 — 45-50mm Tubeless tires are a safe bet.