- Active Topics
- Forums
- Create Topic
-
Experience REAL MOUNTAIN BIKING with some of the best technical singletrack riding SA has to offer on 23-25 September 2022.
The U and its amazing event partners offer a premium lifestyle offering to go with the spectacular technical singletrack riding. The event is limited to 300 riders and is all-inclusive to all entrants (regardless of what accommodation you choose).
This means everything is already covered in your entry fee. Thanks to our handpicked partners, every aspect, from morning coffee through race nutrition, bike wash, post-ride Belgian beers, meals and nightcap, is the absolute finest.
Here’s how we’ll be celebrating Heritage Day this year
The U Stage Race, presented by Venturescapes Events and Enjoy, turns five in 2021 (it would’ve been six but who’s counting 2020…). This year the event is taking place from 24 - 26 September. Long weekend… SORTED!
Now this event has always been tricky to get into for its spectacular riding and for the great lifestyle offering that goes with it. This year is going to be even more difficult - due to protocols in place, there are 200 SPOTS ONLY available for the Heritage Day weekend singletrack festival. We suggest you proceed to checkout today. We are. For the half-dozen reasons below and for the fact that the event is also open to eBikes this year.
1. TRAIL SURFING
The area offers some of the finest singletrack trail riding in the land. This hand-crafted 100-plus kilometre web of trails on the Mouton’s Valley, Pomona and Bugler’s Post farms are usually the private playground of the landowners and a few very select friends. The rest of us get to ride it on only on very select weekends a year, those very rare Open Weekends as well as the one-day Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge and the three-day The U.
So magically flowy are the sections that in places it’s almost impossible to comprehend how the trails were imagined, let alone crafted. Criss-crossing the hills above the race village, the trails weave audaciously over, though, between, and under rocks to create a near perfect land-surf on terrain which quite often shouldn’t’be rideable.
2. ALL INCLUSIVE
You can leave your wallet at home. No for real, the event is 100% all-inclusive (regardless of what accommodation you choose), that means everything is already covered in your entry fee. Now, this is not like one of those ‘all you can eat buffets’ where you get short changed, but a full-service, premium-quality offering. Thanks to the event’s amazing partners, every aspect, from morning coffee through race nutrition, bike care, post-ride beers, meals and night cap, is the best of the best. Riders will also receive the official custom trail top for The U 2021, designed and manufactured locally by Enjoy and a complimentary recovery massage on Saturday by the EPT team with full access to the EPT Recovery Lounge on Friday & Sunday to try the latest gadgets in sports recovery.
3. PREMIUM LIFESTYLE OFFERING
Thanks to the event’s high-end partners, the all-inclusive premium offering includes (among other surprises):
4. PERSONALISED NUMBER BOARD AND MEDAL
Check your ego at the door, this is a first-name basis, baggies and big-grins event. The personalised number boards are a keepsake return riders cherish.
5. THE DAM
The race village is set under the trees on the banks of a beautiful dam. The dam provides both a geographical landmark for when you’re suffering high up on the hills and offers the ideal cool down dip once you’ve crossed the finish line. Makes for some great photos too. And, the odd bass has been known to fall to those intrepid enough to pack their fishing rods. (Catch and release only, of course).
6. QUEEN AND KING OF THE MOUNTAIN. MOUNTAIN. MOUNTAIN…
For the racing snakes, there is some coin up for grabs in the Venturescapes Segment Challenge: With R5000 for both the K&QOM on the Venturescapes Segment Challenge on both Episodes 1 & 2 (R20K in total over the weekend).
Entries open on Monday, 31 May. Entries are limited and bound to sell out fast. There are various entry and accommodation options available.
For more information or to enter, click here.
You need to go to their website, then click on the ENTRY tab to finally see the costs.
VERY cheap.
PS - I find this same convoluted "no price" on the front page thing on most events ...
Come on, put out the relevant information on the front page ....
Apologies guys - noted. Thanks.
Event Name: Piket-Bo-Berg Open Weekend
When: 17 April 2021 - 18 April 2021
Where: Mouton's Valley Farm, Western Cape
Category: MTB
We’re excited to announce that we’re doing it all again, with the addition of a trail run route this time round.
As with last year’s open weekend, proceeds raised will go toward the Piket-Bo-Berg Residents Association - the usual benefactors of the PBB Cycle Challenge and Trail Run. The association is heavily reliant on the funds generated from the weekend to continue with its development initiatives.
Keen? Of course you are… The eBikers even, yeah, we love you too and you’re more than welcome.
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
DETAILS
You have to start at the route (45km, 30km, 25km) for which you purchased a pass. This is for us to comply with social distancing protocols.
Route A(45km) will start on Mouton's Valley Farm.
Route B(30km) will start on Bugler's Post Farm.
Route C(25km) will start on Retreat Guest Farm.
Trail Run Route(18km) will start on Mouton's Valley Farm.
RIDING TIMES
A one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive, boutique stage race experience. The U features two-and-a-half days of challenging yet highly rewarding mountain-biking on our private, handcrafted singletrack trails, along with a premium lifestyle offering. Thanks to our amazing event partners riders enjoy the best race village with premium food, drinks, services and facilities in an all-inclusive offering.
More information to follow.
Event Name: The U MTB Stage Race 2020
When: 23 October 2020 - 25 October 2020
Where: Mouton's Valley Farm, Western Cape
Category: MTB
The U Stage Race is in its fifth year in 2020 and will take place from 23 to 25 October.
Not that you need them, but here are just some of the highlights you can look forward to:
THE RIDING
The big reason those 250 entries sell out so fast every time is there are only two times a year when the magical 100-plus kilometre network of hand-crafted singletrack in the Piket-Bo-Berg is open to the public: The Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge, and The U.
We’re always in awe of how our trail-builders do it. In some sections, it’s almost impossible to comprehend how the trails were imagined, let alone crafted. Criss-crossing the hills above the race village, the trails weave audaciously over, through, between, and under rocks to create a near-perfect flow on terrain which quite often shouldn’t be rideable.
Make no mistake - it’s no manicured bike park (or walk-in-the-park, for that matter) the trails are physically and technically challenging, but generous in their rewards.
THE FEED
We’re not aware of too many other events that can say this (are there any?), but for The U you can leave your wallet at home. True story, no need for any extra cash. The event is all-inclusive (regardless of what accommodation you choose), that means everything is already covered in your entry fee. Now, this is not like one of those ‘all you can eat buffets’ where you get short-changed.
This, thanks to our premium partners, is the best of the best, and features:
THE ADD-ONS
But wait, there is more thanks to the amazing support of our premium partners. Everything below is part of the deal, complimentary… GRATIS:
*To enter, head over to Entry Ninja now!
Event Name: THE U - MTB Stage Race 2019
When: 18 October 2019 - 20 October 2019
Where: Mouton's Valley Farm, Western Cape
Category: MTB
THE U WANTS YOU… You are invited you to join us for the Singletrack Stage Race for REAL MOUNTAIN BIKERS. Small. Boutique. Exclusive. That is the U…
Based around a race village in a class of its own, the three-day event showcases the natural beauty of our mountains, paired with great food, drinks and our small-town hospitality.
U will enjoy:
Unique features of the event:
Additional Features:
Event Name: Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge & Trail Run
When: 7 September 2019
Where: Piket-Bo-Berg Trail Park, Western Cape
Category: MTB
Join us for the 10th Annual Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge & Trail Run, sponsored by Boland Superspar. The trails will take you through the beautiful fruit farms and fynbos hidden away on the Piket-Bo-Berg Mountain. You can enjoy great food and a vibrant atmosphere at the finish line, welcoming riders and runners home. We have loads food and drink stalls, a Beer tent and shaded seating for all our spectators!
Ride for a GREAT CAUSE! This event is organised by the local NPO - The Piket-Bo-Berg Residents Association and all the funds raised through this event enables investment in skills development and education. Creating a better future for all in our community.
We are looking forward to sharing our small town hospitality with you, while you enjoy some of the best tracks South Africa has to offer.
Online Entries Opening Soon!
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates.
Thank you @Stevief for the great feedback. We always appreciate constructive feedback which we can use to improve the event!
Noted - we will definitely take this into account when planning the 2019 event!
Hope to see you again next year.
Just did my First U This weekend.
WOW WOW WOW
Trails: I'm not kidding when I say this, these are the best trails we have in SA, they are incredible. The route and topgraphy was mind blowing. Nice rough technical trails that had it all. I will never forget these trails it was a privilege to be healthy and able to ride trails like this. Proper MTb that makes it hard to do other races as these trails are so superior 10/10 for route.
Race Village: Incredible location, comfortable tents, lots of chill area and a stunning setting. Also I must add the staff that manned the toilets, the bike wash, the tents and the village were brilliant. Always smiling, everything was cleaned, the place ran like clockwork. 10/10 for Village and staff
The organisers had a tough call to make as winds were hectic on day 1, but they pulled through and a special mention for Rikus for the best pre-race briefing I've ever heard. Organisation 10/10
Here is the only BUT. The food! The food was very disappointing. After spending 5 hrs and climbed 1650m of brutal track one needs to eat and replenish. The food served was basically just broccoli salads, couscous salads and not much else. No meat dishes, no pasta, nothing with substance. Dinner was even worse. We got tiny portion sizes. Although the kitchen did their best the choice of food was wrong. We needed more variety and more substance, hard to do a stage race on rabbit food. Not asking of fancy food just more variety and more substantial meals. My only gripe I have about the event was the food. Food 3/10
In summary, THE U is simply the best race I've ever ridden, it is head and shoulders above any other stage race. Yes, it's expensive and exclusive but worth it. Only gripe was catering. Well done to all involved for providing a wonderful experience.
Hey - Saturday will be cold but no rain predicted at this stage.
Our trails are well built - look closely while riding and you will see cut off trenches and drains everywhere - which means they will dry off with the little bit of sunshine between today and tomorrow.
Our farm weather station does not predict any rain between now and Saturday.
Happy riding!
It is a weird thing....
This is my only must do event...
Thanks OemD!
Team "Bum Cream & Beers" are locked and loaded via Entry Ninja. Even pushed the boat out for some luxury accommodation! Can't wait!
That is great news!
Please, don't get the Bum Cream and Beers confused on race day! 
Hi MTB Enthusiasts!
We have updated the event info on this page to include the juicy details about the distances and elevation that we have in store for #TheU MTB Stage Race - please note that our team of trail builders are continuously improving and adding new trails which means that these stats might change a bit closer to race weekend - but we will keep you posted!
Remember that online entries will open on the 25th of April!!
Confirms my theory again that if you see a new race on the calendar that looks appealing you don't wait for next year! (Think this one was just over 3K a rider 2 years ago). If the race is any good the entry fee will either double over the next 2/3 years (but it comes with the risk that it might be a well marketed crap race...)
Well done to the organisers, certainly looks like a unique event worth doing if its in your budget.
Thanks for your insights & kind words Skubarra.
The event is now in its 3rd year, and that first year that you were referring to was our 'trial event'. It was a self-catered event where riders could bring their own tents and experience the event in a very basic form, They provided valuable feedback which allowed us the opportunity to further define what the direction of the event would be.
From the next year, we included all the 'bells and whistles' to create a unique stage race where riders can experience great food, beer and wine in a beautiful race venue with some amazing technical trails which obviously added more expenses, resulting in higher entry fees, but also created a unique and intimate experience for riders.
Hope clarifies the initial price increase..
I don't know the cost this year, I couldn't afford it last year, which is a huge pity.. so I just very much look forward to there one day event,
The way I talk of the one day event to plenty people, I should get sponsored for the U Stage race
Just saying
Thanks for the enthusiasm T-Bag68 - looking forward to sharing the trails with you!
What is the cost this year?
Hi MTBeer - herewith our entry fees for 2018:
Standard @ R6 500 per individual
Your standard entry includes:
All meals from the Friday evening until Sunday lunch, including light snacks on the Friday afternoon
Your own two-man tent & mattress, bedding excluded
Standard @ R11 000 per team
Your standard entry includes:
All meals from the Friday evening until Sunday lunch, including light snacks on the Friday afternoon
Your own two-man tent & mattress, bedding excluded
Luxury @ R9 500 per individual
Your luxury entry includes:
All meals from the Friday evening until Sunday lunch, including light snacks on the Friday afternoon
Your own four-man tent with a single bed, a bedside table, shaded seating and ground cover in front of your tent with 2 camp chairs, a solar light, bedding included
Luxury @ R14 000 per team
Your luxury team entry includes:
All meals from the Friday evening until Sunday lunch, including light snacks on the Friday afternoon
Your own four-man tent with two single beds, a bedside table, shaded seating and ground cover in front of your tent with 2 camp chairs, a solar light, bedding included
Deluxe @ R18 000 per team (teams only)
Your deluxe team entry includes:
Fully equipped luxury serviced accommodation with proper single beds for 2 evenings (double beds available upon request), bedding & towels included
Complimentary Drinks & Snacks
Access to the permanent ablution facilities
Designated parking area
Event Name: The U MTB Stage Race
When: 19 October 2018 - 21 October 2018
Where: Moutons Valley Farm, Piket-bo-berg, Western Cape
Category: MTB
We want to invite you to joins us for SA’s Single Track Stage Race for REAL MOUNTAIN BIKERS in a small and exclusive event, The U.
Set in race village second to none showcasing the natural beauty of our mountains, paired with great food, drinks and our small town hospitality.
U will enjoy
The field is limited to only 200 riders – be sure to book your spot for 2018!
Online entries opening on the 25th of April!
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates.
WEEKEND PROGRAM:
Prologue - Friday: Time Trial Format
Distance: 7.06km | Elevation: 169m
Episode 1 - Saturday
Distance: 49.82km | Elevation: 1567m
Episode 2 - Sunday
Distance: 51.08km | Elevation: 1418m
Event Name: Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge & Trail Run
When: 8 September 2018
Where: Moutons Valley Farm, Piket-bo-berg, Western Cape
Category: Multisport
Join us for the 9th Annual Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge & Trail Run, sponsored by Boland Superspar. The trails will take you through the beautiful fruit farms and fynbos hidden away on the Piket-Bo-Berg Mountain. You can enjoy great food and a vibrant atmosphere at the finish line, welcoming riders and runners home. We have loads food and drink stalls, a Beer tent and shaded seating for all our spectators!
Ride for a GREAT CAUSE! This event is organised by the local NPO - The Piket-Bo-Berg Residents Association, and all the funds raised through this event enables investment in skills development and education. Creating a better future for all in our community.
We are looking forward to sharing our small town hospitality with you, while you enjoy some of the best tracks South Africa has to offer.
Online Entries Opening Soon!
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates.
Event Name: Tip Trans Cederberg Experience
When: 1 September 2018
Where: De Meul Sentrum, North of Citrusdal
Category: Multisport
Join us for the 105km Tip Trans Cederberg Experience! If you like long sections of district roads with beautiful landscapes set to challenge your fitness – this race is for you!
We’ve added a 65km for the riders that enjoy a bit more of a challenge and who prefer a race with a bit of a technical spin.
The ever-popular 45km is still available for those who just want a great morning of riding.
On the 01 September 2018, we will host the 6th edition of the Tip Trans Cederberg MTB.
The kiddies race will be available again this year. So bring the little ones along so they can start young.
For the athletes that like to get around on their feet, there will be a 15 km Trail Run.
At the end of a great day, there will be food stalls, craft beers, a kids play area and much more to ensure that you can thoroughly enjoy the afternoon and unwind - surrounded by true Citrusdal hospitality.
Late Entry Fees (on the day):
15km Trail Run - R150
45km MTB - R300
65km MTB - R350
105km MTB - R400
Event Name: Tip Trans Cederberg Experience
When: 1 September 2018
Where: de Meul Setrum, North of Citrusdal
Category: MTB
Join us for the 105km Tip Trans Cederberg Experience! If you like long sections of district roads with beautiful landscapes set to challenge your fitness – this race is for you!
We’ve added a 65km for the riders that enjoy a bit more of a challenge and who prefer a race with a bit of a technical spin.
The ever-popular 45km is still available for those who just want a great morning of riding.
On the 01 September 2018, we will host the 6th edition of the Tip Trans Cederberg MTB.
The kiddies race will be available again this year. So bring the little ones along so they can start young.
For the athletes that like to get around on their feet, there will be a 15 km Trail Run.
At the end of a great day, there will be food stalls, craft beers, a kids play area and much more to ensure that you can thoroughly enjoy the afternoon and unwind - surrounded by true Citrusdal hospitality.
Event Name: Kolsvlei 100km Extreme Challenge
When: 24 March 2018
Where: Kolsvlei Farm, Western Cape
Category: MTB
Take up the 100km Challenge or joins us for a fun-filled day with the family competing in one of the shorter distances at the Kolsvlei Trail Park just outside of Piketberg.
You will be challenged to complete 4 gruelling laps around the Kolsvlei Trails that will span over 100 kilometres with a total elevation profile of 1550m in the 100KM EXTREME CHALLENGE!
Not sure if you can complete the 100km Extreme Challenge, why not try? Enter for the 100km Extreme Challenge to see if you can complete a 50km or 75km loop instead! You might event feel ready to complete the final loop that will take you to the 100 kilometres!
You can also enter as a team of 4 riders and compete in the 100KM RELAY CHALLENGE? Your team will each have the opportunity to complete a 25km lap with a 388m elevation on the Kolsvlei Trails! The team with the fastest time - wins! Teams will be introduced before the race start – so please pick a fun team name for the day and come kitted in your favourite corporate colours.
Take advantage of the exciting new race format to suss out the trail park and have fun with your fellow riders!
The MTB Challenge has 3 Water Points, and there are GOODIE BAGS up for grabs for the first 100 MTB and first 40 Trail Run Entries!
We also have 2 trail run distances if running is your passion! Join us for the 10km or 5km Trail Run along the Kolsvlei Trails! Strollers and kiddies bikes are welcome on the 5km Fun Run.
The Riders and Runner pass the race venue and FREE tractor rides will take spectators to an exciting spectator point! There will be shaded areas for spectators as well at the race venue with a variety of snacks and drinks for sale!
Please bring your family and friends to support you on the day.
Visit our Facebook Page for the latest updates about the event!
Visit our Facebook Page for the latest updates about the event!
Event Name: Kolsvlei 100km Challenge MTB & Trail Run
When: 24 March 2018
Where: Kolsvlei Trails, Piketberg, Western Cape
Category: MTB
Enter the 100KM EXTREME CHALLENGE and try to complete 4 gruelling laps around the Kolsvlei Trails that will span over 100 kilometres with a total elevation profile of 1550m!
Not ready for the 100km yet? Then join of for a new exciting race format!
Enter as a team to compete in the RELAY CHALLENGE. Your team of 4 have to each complete a lap of 25 kilometres with a 388m elevation profile around the Kolsvlei Trails! The team with the fastest time - wins!
We also have 2 trail run distances if running is your passion! Join us for the 10km or 5km Trail Run along the Kolsvlei Trails!
[Event] The U MTB Stage Race
in Events
Posted
When: 23/09/2022 - 25/09/2022
Where: Moutons Valley Farm, , Goedverwacht, Western Cape
Category: Mountain Bike
If you’ve never heard about The U, presented by Enjoy and Venturescapes Events, here’s what you need to know in a gel-sized hit: A three-day stage race featuring ‘real mountain-biking’ on an extensive network of private, handcrafted singletrack trails. Based around a picturesque lake-side race village, the three-day event showcases the natural beauty of our mountains, paired with a premium lifestyle offering featuring gourmet food, drinks, services and facilities in an all-inclusive offering.
You read right. All-inclusive indeed - everything is covered by your entry fee and you can leave your wallet at home.
We have space for 300 RIDERS. Now, it might be a lifestyle event, but we haven’t forgotten about the racing snakes and the Venturescapes Segment Challenge offers R5000 for both the K&QOM on both Episodes 1 & 2 (R20K in total over the weekend).
Riders will also be race-ready for their photo finish, sporting their custom trail kit designed and manufactured locally by Enjoy.
There are only a few spots left so pull the trigger today, there are some spectacular lucky draw prizes up for grabs this year:
Go to Event Page.