Gravel riding may be booming now, but back in 2004, it was already a thing in South Africa.
With the re-launch of the legendary Crater Cruise in 2025 (Sun 8 June), we’re taking a ride down memory lane to remind everyone that long-distance gravel adventures on South Africa’s secondary and tertiary roads were already attracting bunches of riders more than 20 years ago!
It’s impossible to forget that first event in 2004, when mountain bike legend Mannie Heymans soloed to victory on the 101 km route in a lightning-fast 2 hours and 57 minutes—riding a 26-inch Focus mountain bike with tubes! Even back then, he knew that a narrower handlebar setup was the way to go on the long flats 😉
It didn’t take long before the road racers noticed the potential of this unique format. Soon, top pros were lining up for the Crater Cruise, including Anke Erlank, Robert Hunter, John-Lee Augustyn, Burry Stander, and even Chris Froome, the future Tour de France champion.
To honour this rich legacy of racing greatness, the 2025 edition of the Crater Cruise launches with a R75,000 prize purse!
And who could forget Gerrie Beukes, who ground out a top-10 finish—8th overall—on a single-speed bike! These stories have become part of South African gravel racing folklore.
The 2025 Gravel Crater Cruise: Fast, Scenic, and Unforgettable
This year’s route is designed to be fast, flowing, and scenic. Of the 145 km long route, 90 km is smooth, well-packed gravel that meanders alongside the Vaal River. Another 20 km is tar, while the remaining stretch offers coarser gravel and rolling hills to keep things interesting.
All three distances—145 km, 92 km, and 50 km—will include the iconic Grootkloof Mountain Pass, also known as the Suikerbossie climb, a nod to Cape Town’s famous hill.
Expect cool, dry conditions thanks to the June winter weather, with an 8:30 AM start to allow for a relaxed morning. While rain is unlikely, wind could be a factor—but the route is well sheltered by the dense bush along the riverbanks. With very little traffic and a remote setting, the ride feels truly wild and rural.
For Nature Lovers and Explorers
This event doesn’t just promise a fast ride—it offers a visual and cultural feast. Riders will cross two low-water bridges over the Vaal River and pass through the historical town of Venterskroon. Much of the route lies within the boundaries of the UNESCO Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site—a mountainous region formed by a massive meteorite impact over two billion years ago.
Family Fun at Koedoeslaagte Trail Park
The start and finish at Koedoeslaagte Trail Park make this more than just a race—it’s a full family experience. Facilities include:
- Porcelain toilets and hot showers
- Picnic tables for relaxing post-race
- The Uitspan Kiosk for food and refreshments
- Onsite bike support from UR Cycling Shop
- Bike displays from Titan Racing and Merida Bikes
- Freshly brewed coffee by Acorn Coffee
- Street food served up by The Stash
- A kids’ MTB skills track for young adventurers
Come and Test Our Gravel
Whether you’re chasing the podium or soaking up the scenery, this is your chance to ride a route that blends history, heritage, and high-speed gravel. Come and experience the legend for yourself.
FIND OUR MORE HERE
It won’t just be epic—it’ll be GRAVELICIOUS!
- The Crater Cruise is part of the Gauteng Gravel Series; an official Northwest Calendar Race; and official Free State Calendar Race
- Info and more accommodation: https://www.cratercycling.com/cratercruise
- Organiser – please Whatsapp 082 335 3358 – attie.koekies@gmail.com
paid & entered. who'll be there?