Preparing for the Cape Town Cycle Tour: Everything you need to know

The Cape Town Cycle Tour is one of the world’s largest timed cycling events, attracting thousands of cyclists from across the globe. As one of the most iconic races, it offers riders a chance to experience Cape Town's stunning landscapes while challenging their endurance. 

Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience. From logistics to navigating road closures, understanding the event's timing and requirements is essential. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a first timer, getting the details right can make all the difference in your race day performance. 

What is the Cape Town Cycle Tour?  

The Cape Town Cycle Tour holds a unique place in the cycling world. It began in 1978 as a protest ride advocating for safer cycling paths in Cape Town. Originally known as "The Big Ride In", it was organised by Bill Mylrea and John Stegmann to raise awareness of the need for better cycling infrastructure.  

Despite initial resistance, the ride grew rapidly, attracting 525 cyclists to its inaugural event. Over the years, the route evolved into the iconic course we know today, and the event became a major fixture on the global cycling calendar. 

Celebrated for its inclusivity, the Cape Town Cycle Tour was one of the first events to allow both amateur and professional cyclists to race side by side.  

Now, with approximately 30 000 participants annually, it is the largest timed cycling event in the world and continues to promote cycling development, community engagement, and a healthy lifestyle. 

Cape Town Cycle Tour route 

So, what is the 2025 Cape Town Cycle Tour route? The route is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, where cyclists experience the beauty of the city as they ride along the coastal roads, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the iconic Table Mountain, and the Cape Peninsula.  

How many Cape Town Cycle Tour routes are there? There’s two — the 109km option and the 42km option. 

Focusing on the 109km Cape Town Cycle Tour route (68 miles for our friends abroad using the Imperial system), it kicks off in the inner city as cyclists set off near the Castle of Good Hope, greeted by the crack of the starter’s pistol. The first challenge arrives quickly on Nelson Mandela Boulevard, leading to Hospital Bend before riders spin past UCT and Newlands Forest. From there, Edinburgh Drive (Wynberg Hill) delivers a steep, early test of endurance before giving way to a fast, rolling 25km stretch which goes past Simon’s Town. 

As riders approach the Smitswinkel climb, near the entrance to Cape Point Nature Reserve, they’ll cross the halfway mark. If the South Easter is in full force, this stretch offers some relief from the headwinds.  

From here, the course winds through the picturesque villages of Scarborough and Misty Cliffs, where the cool sea breeze and panoramic ocean views provide a well-earned mental reset. 

But the toughest tests still await. The flat run back to Fish Hoek is deceptive, as it often forces riders to battle headwinds before reaching the legendary Chapman’s Peak and Suikerbossie climbs. 

Chapman’s Peak Drive is a two-part ascent: first, the short but steep Little Chappies, made easier by roaring spectator support, followed by the longer, more gradual climb up Chapman’s Peak, one of the most beautiful roads in the world.  

After a fast descent into Hout Bay, the final challenge looms — Suikerbossie. This infamous 1.5km climb is gruelling, but the cheers of enthusiastic crowds help push cyclists through. 

From the summit, it’s all downhill and flat riding towards the finish, sweeping past Bakoven, Camps Bay, Clifton, and Sea Point. Just before the finish line, a short incline at Maiden’s Cove delivers one last test before the final stretch to victory in Green Point. 

Check out the full Cape Town Cycle Tour route map here! 

Logistics and key details 

Cape Town Cycle Tour start times 

The Cape Town Cycle Tour, scheduled for Sunday, 9 March 2025, offers two primary routes: the traditional 109km and the shorter 42km. Participants are assigned specific start times based on various factors, including their seeding and chosen route. 

Understanding start times 

• 109km Route: The first group typically starts at 6am, with subsequent groups departing at regular intervals. Exact start times for 2025 are yet to be announced. 
• 42km Route: This route begins shortly after the final group of the 109km event has departed. Specific start times will be provided closer to the event date. 

Finding your assigned start time 

Participants will receive their specific Cape Town Cycle Tour start times upon collecting their race packs. The Cape Town Cycle Tour Expo, where participants collect their race packs, will be held at the DHL Stadium in Green Point, Cape Town. The Expo is scheduled from 6 to 8 March 2025, with operating hours as follows: 

• 6 March 2025: 9.30am-7pm 
• 7 March 2025: 9am–7pm 
• 8 March 2025: 9am–4pm 

Admission is free for Cycle Tour participants. Adult supporters are welcome at an entry fee of R50, while children under 12 can enter for free.  

More info on start times for Cape Town Cycle Tour here! 

Tips for arriving on time and reducing stress 

• Plan ahead: Familiarise yourself with the route to the start venue and consider any road closures that might affect your journey. 
• Arrive early: Aim to arrive at least an hour before your designated start time to account for parking, final preparations and unforeseen delays. 
• Prepare the night before: Lay out your cycling gear, ensure your bike is in optimal condition, and have all necessary items ready to avoid last-minute scrambling. 
• Stay informed: Regularly check the official Cape Town Cycle Tour website and your registered email for any updates or changes leading up to the event. 

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on race day. 

What are the 2025 Cape Town Cycle Tour road closures 

So, which roads are closed for the 2025 Cape Town Cycle Tour?  

You can check out the provisional Cape Town Cycle Tour road closure schedule for Sunday, 9 March 2025, or you can view our handy summary here: 

Cape Town CBD: 

• Strand Street & Newmarket Street (between Adderley Street & Russel Road): Closed from 4am to 4pm. 
• Buitenkant Street (between Darling Street & Caledon Street): Closed from 4am to 12pm. 
• Sir Lowry Road (City-inbound carriageway only, between Christiaan Barnard Street & Canterbury Street): Closed from 4am to 9am. 
• Loop Street (closed at Riebeek Street): Closed from 7am to 4pm. 
• Somerset Road (one lane closure between Buitengracht Street & Ebenezer Street): Closed from 10am to 3pm. 
• Darling Street (between Adderley Street & Lower Plein Street): Closed from 4pm to 12pm. 
• Lower Plein Street (between Strand Street and Darling Street): Closed from 4am to 12pm. 

Woodstock & University Estate: 

• Phillip Kgosana Drive (M3): Specific closure times to be confirmed. 

Alternative routes for supporters  

To minimise inconvenience, consider the following alternative routes during the road closures: 

• For North-South travel: Use the N1 and N2 highways, which remain largely unaffected by the event. 
• For East-West travel: Utilise the M5 as an alternative to the M3, noting that some sections may experience increased traffic. 
• Access to the Atlantic Seaboard: Consider using Kloof Nek Road to bypass closures on Somerset Road. 
• Southern Suburbs to City Centre: Opt for Main Road (M4) as an alternative to Sir Lowry Road and Buitenkant Street. 

Remember to check for updates closer to the time!  For the most current information, including any updates or modifications to the road closures, it's advisable to consult the official Cape Town Cycle Tour website or contact the event organisers directly. 

See all Cape Town Cycle Tour road closures here! 

Where to stay for the Cape Town Cycle Tour 

Cape Town offers a range of accommodation for the Cape Town Cycle Tour, catering to cyclists, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some top picks: 

Close to the start line (City Bowl & Green Point) 

Staying near the start line ensures a stress-free race morning. 

• The Westin Cape Town: A premium hotel with top-notch facilities and easy access to the race start. 
• Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront: Offers scenic views and cyclist-friendly amenities. 
• Cape Town Lodge Hotel: A budget-friendly option within the city centre. 

Near the beach (Camps Bay & Sea Point) 

For a scenic post-race recovery, opt for accommodations along the Atlantic Seaboard. 

• The Bay Hotel: Luxury stay with breathtaking ocean views. 
• Protea Hotel by Marriott Sea Point: Well-priced with great accessibility. 
• Atlantic Point Backpackers: An affordable and social option for solo cyclists. 

What to Pack for the Cape Town Cycle Tour 

Here’s a list of essential gear that you need to prepare for the big race. 

• Helmet: A must for safety and race regulations. 
• Cycling kit: Comfortable jersey, padded shorts, gloves, and sunglasses. 
• Bike tools & spares: Multi-tool, spare tubes, tyre levers, and a pump. 
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, arm sleeves, and a cap for pre/post-race. 
• Water bottles & hydration pack: The Cape Town heat can be intense, so staying hydrated is key. 
• Bicycle Rental Cape Town: If you’re travelling without your bike, there are several reputable rental services available including Cycle The Cape, iRide Africa and Cape Town Cycle Hire.  

Storing your bike and gear safely 

Keeping your bike safe before and after the Cape Town Cycle Tour is crucial to prevent theft and damage. Make sure to use a high-quality lock and store it in a secure location when not in use. 

Bicycle storage for Cape Town Cycle Tour 

• Hotel storage: Many cyclist-friendly hotels offer secure bike storage. 
• Self storage facilities: If you need long-term storage, consider using a dedicated facility like Stor-Age for added security and convenience. 
• Race day bike parks: The event provides designated areas to safely park your bike before and after the ride. 

Making race day stress-free 

Checklist for the morning of the event 

• Ensure your bike is in good working condition. 
• Double-check your helmet, cycling kit, and gear. 
• Eat a nutritious breakfast and hydrate adequately. 
• Arrive at the start area early to avoid last-minute stress. 
• Carry energy snacks, hydration packs, and electrolyte supplements. 

Cape Town Cycle Tour parking and transport tips  

• Public transport: Use MyCiTi buses, which have bike-friendly routes. 
• Ride to the start: If staying nearby, cycling to the start line is a great warm-up. 
• Designated parking areas: Look for race-day parking zones but arrive early as they fill up quickly. 
• Drop-off zones: If getting a lift, use designated drop-off areas to reduce congestion. 

Cape Town Cycle Tour 2025: Rider FAQ 

Where are the water and nutrition stations located? 

Water and nutrition stations are strategically placed along the Cape Town Cycle Tour route to ensure cyclists stay hydrated and energised throughout the race. Check out details of refreshment stations on the map here! 

Where can I find medical assistance during the event? 

Medical tents are located at key points along the route. These tents are equipped to handle minor injuries and provide first aid.  

Who are the race marshals and officials? 

Race marshals and officials are stationed throughout the Cape Town Cycle Tour route. They are there to guide participants, ensure safety, and provide assistance if needed. Don’t hesitate to approach them if you require help. 

What should I do in case of an emergency? 

Save the event’s emergency contact number in your phone. Knowing where to find help is essential in case of a medical or other urgent situation during the race. 

Bicycle storage in Cape Town 

After a long ride, the last thing you want to worry about is where to safely store your bicycle, sports and cycling gear. Stor-Age offers secure, flexible, and convenient self storage solutions in Cape Town and surrounds, ensuring your equipment stays protected before and after the Cape Town Cycle Tour. 

• Short-term and long-term storage options 
• Secure, access-controlled facilities 
• Convenient locations near key cycling routes 

Keep your gear safe and ready for your next ride! Get a quote today.