Race to Rhodes

The Race To Rhodes (RTR) is an unforgettable adventure by bike from Pietermaritzburg to Rhodes (EC). RTR is a physically and mentally demanding undertaking to complete this challenge, riders need to be adequately trained, equipped and prepared. Apart from the fitness, riders also need to be proficient at hiking with bike, navigation and bike maintenance. Since the route is not marked, riders need to navigate by means of maps, compass and narrative directions. The route follows the Freedom Trail from Pietermaritzburg to Rhodes along a wide variety of off-road terrain dirt roads, farm roads and tracks, footpaths and animal tracks. follows the route taken by Trappist monks as they headed into the area previously known as No-man's Land and East Griqualand and then across the Maloti Drakensberg Mountains to the village of Rhodes. Many of the trails retrace old historic wagon routes which are no longer in regular use. Apart from the riding, there are numerous portage sections where riders will have to hike, push and even carry their bikes. The table below shows breakdown of distances, climbing and estimated ride times between support stations and interim stops.