Feeling the Burn: A Ride Like No Other at the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race

6 days ago

Step into a world where cycling meets creativity, and the desert becomes your playground. Mountain Bike Mag was on the ground – and the saddle – at the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race this past May, diving headfirst into an unforgettable mix of sand, scenery, and seriously quirky vibes. Think AfrikaBurn-style creativity, hot tubs under the stars, ice-cold G&Ts, and a cycling experience unlike anything else.

Held in the vast and otherworldly Tankwa Karoo, this event is much more than a race. It’s a celebration of the unconventional. Riders chose between cozy tents or cabins, dressed up or down (or in pink wings and shorts!), and embraced the freedom to explore this cosmic landscape at their own pace. Whether roadie, gravel grinder, or MTB aficionado, the Tanqua Kuru delivered an adventure with endless sand, jaw-dropping sunsets, and memories that only a weekend in the middle of nowhere can provide.

From soulful desert rides to post-race flights in Sling Aircraft and unforgettable sundowner moments, this race had it all. Race founder Jeremy Crowder’s eclectic personality infused the weekend with humour, creativity, and charm – setting the tone for a laid-back yet exhilarating experience. Riders swapped stories around campfires, took on the iconic Gannaga Pass, and found camaraderie in the face of miles of sand, sweat, and starlight.

Want the full story? In our latest issue of Mountain Bike Mag, we take you inside the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race with an exclusive recap featuring firsthand accounts, stunning photography by Max Sullivan, and a deep dive into the unique charm of this remote adventure. You’ll also read Simon Nicks’ perspective as he tackled the cosmic landscape, balancing grit and grace on his MTB through the Tankwa Karoo’s unforgiving terrain.