The “7Passes MTB”, powered by Knysna Toyota is back!  It’s happening on the 4th of January 2025. This route offers the perfect opportunity for gravel-bikers to take on the 29ers. E-bikers are also welcome on this non-technical route. The open grass area, directly in front of the Wilderness Hotel will be host to the start venue. Batch starts from 07H00 just before late registration between 06H00 and 07H00. There will be registration Friday evening, 3 January 16H00 to 17H30 in George at Trail Kiosk.  7Passes MTB also offers a shorter route for younger or not so fit riders who still want to be part of the action! Leeuwenbosch Dairies will once again support the 38km event which starts on Saturday morning from the Highlands Cash Store in the humble little village of Karatara. The start time for the shorter route is 09H30.

Leaders of the longer 76km route are expected to pass the second water point, located at the start of the 38km race and halfway between George and Knysna, just before 09H30.

Thomas Bain was the legend who designed the road between George and Knysna in 1883 and experienced many challenges in the dense forest surrounds and also bumped heads with his brother-in-law, Adam de Smidt with whom he shared the contract. On completion of the road the two never spoke again. The route crosses 10 rivers and 7 gorges between these two towns and passes through the quaint settlement of Rheenendal, home to the brief gold rush in the 1880’s.  The final stretch into Knysna will lead riders over the red bridge and along the N2 to just after the first set of lights where riders will turn left and cross the Salt River following the road to ‘The Farm’ at the foot of the Simola Pass.

‘The farm’ is the perfect finish venue to enjoy your pre-selected lunch (included in your entry). A lunch menu is also available for spectators, invite all your fans to watch you, cross the line and enjoy the beautiful surrounds. A Pump track is available for kids to keep themselves busy while you enjoy your ice-cold beer compliments of Garden Route Events and the chilled atmosphere of this finish venue.