31
OCT
GRAVEL
Iceni 360
Suffolk
580 KMS
3500M
Distance
500 km
Elevation
8000 m
Surface
Gravel
Difficulty
Moderate
TERRAIN
CLIMBING
HEAT
REMOTE
What to Expect on Cape Hope 500
The Cape Hope 500 is a 500 km bikepacking challenge starting and finishing in Cape Town, South Africa. Organised by Gravalist, the route takes riders on a varied journey beyond the city, combining coastal scenery, remote gravel roads, farmland and mountain passes.
Starting at the V&A Waterfront, the route heads along the West Coast before turning inland through agricultural landscapes towards Tulbagh. Riders then face the demanding Bainskloof Pass before making their way back towards Cape Town, with sections through the Table Mountain National Park adding another challenge near the finish.
Designed for gravel riders looking to take on a longer adventure, Cape Hope 500 combines changing terrain with the physical demands of a 500 km ride. Coastal conditions and potentially strong headwinds can make the return journey particularly challenging.
The 2026 event listing identifies the race as a solo bikepacking challenge. However, detailed information about elevation, time limits and the exact self-supported rules is not currently confirmed in the available event listing.
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Bike Setup for Cape Hope 500
Bike
Gravel Bike
Tires
45-50mm Tubeless
Cassette
10-51T
Chainring
38-40T (1x)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Cape Hope 500?
Riders taking on Cape Hope 500 will cover 500 km and climb roughly 8000 m over the course of the route.
What bike do I need?
Cape Hope 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?
Expect a Moderate-tier challenge at Cape Hope 500 — fairly flat climbing over rough, technical terrain for a good stretch of the route, with mild and generally comfortable weather typical for the time of year.
When does it take place?
Cape Hope 500 takes place on October 9, 2027. That puts it in spring, when weather can still be unpredictable, so a flexible kit is worth packing.
What surface is it?
Surface-wise, expect gravel throughout Cape Hope 500 — 45-50mm Tubeless tires are a safe bet.