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The 2025 Absa Cape Epic is upon us, and as Dirtyheart MTB, we’re all about breaking it down from a women's perspective! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, this year's route offers plenty of challenges — and some surprises. Covering 608 kilometres with a whopping 16,500 meters of climbing, it promises to be a true test of endurance, skill, and mental toughness.
A Race of Two Halves This year's course is a masterclass in deception. The first three days? Low mileage, manageable climbs, and just enough technical singletrack to make you think, "This isn't so bad." But beware! Those easier early stages are just the calm before the storm. The body might tell you to crank up the speed, but doing so could cost you dearly later. Once you hit Stage 4, the long days and grueling climbs kick in, and trust us, you’ll feel every metre of elevation.
For our fellow female riders, pacing will be everything. With the compact nature of the course — where Table Mountain never seems far from view — it’s easy to be lulled into a false sense of security. But make no mistake, this route will demand every ounce of strength and endurance you’ve got.
Punchy Climbs and Technical Singletracks The 2025 route stays true to its reputation, offering plenty of technical singletrack descents, punchy climbs, and very few "free" miles. The Winelands’ greatest hits are all here, along with new trails that’ll keep even the most experienced riders on their toes. Whether it's the scenic yet brutal climbs on Paarl Mountain or the punishing singletrack on Lourensford's slopes, there are no shortcuts to earning that finisher's medal.
Stage Highlights
Prologue (Meerendal Wine Estate): Kicking off with a scenic but tricky 27km route, it's a great way to gauge how well you’ve prepared. Sharp climbs and fun descents will wake up the legs.
Stage 2 (Time Trial): At just 58km, this stage is all about teamwork and tactics. A shorter day, but don’t let that fool you. The heat and wind could quickly turn it into a real test of mental fortitude.
Stage 5 (Killer Queen): This 103km monster is the Queen Stage, featuring over 3,000m of climbing. This is where true champions are made. Get ready for a day filled with long climbs and aggressive racing.
Stage 7 (Grand Finale): The final day is anything but a victory lap. With 68km and 2,250m of climbing, it’s your last chance to give it everything before crossing the finish line.
Expect the Unexpected One thing we know for sure: the weather will play a massive role. Cape Town’s unpredictable conditions could serve up searing heat, gale-force winds, or even the odd downpour. These extra layers of complexity make it crucial to ride smart. Save some energy for the latter stages when the real grind begins.
For Spectators: A Visual Feast If you're cheering from the sidelines, you’re in for a treat! This year’s route promises plenty of prime spectator spots, with the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain and the rugged beauty of the Cape Winelands providing a stunning visual experience.
Final Thoughts The 2025 Cape Epic promises to be an unforgettable race, blending shorter, punchier stages with longer, grueling days in the saddle. Our advice? Ride wisely, pace yourself, and never underestimate the terrain or the weather. Whether you're racing or watching, this year’s event is shaping up to be a thrilling ride from start to finish.
Take a look at the route and what it holds for 2025:
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