Maluti Double 90Route Overview
The Maluti Double 90 is a challenging 180 km team time trial that tests endurance, teamwork and determination. With 2,220 m of elevation gain and an average altitude of approximately 1,900 m, teams should arrive well-prepared for a demanding day in the saddle.
Clarens to Bethlehem | 0–40 km
The route begins with gentle, undulating terrain from Clarens towards Bethlehem, offering teams an opportunity to settle into a comfortable rhythm.
Important: Exercise extreme caution when turning left onto the N5 towards Bethlehem, as this road carries heavy traffic, including trucks. All teams MUST ride in SINGLE FILE from this turn until Bethlehem.
The first refreshment station is located just outside Bethlehem at approximately 40 km.
Bethlehem to Kestell | 40–90 km (approx.)
From Bethlehem, the route follows the undulating R716 through scenic farmland towards Warden and Eenzaamheid. The generous road shoulder allows teams to establish efficient pacelines and maintain a steady pace.
Refreshment Station 2 is situated at approximately 70 km, just before the right turn onto the R57 towards Kestell.
The R57 continues through rolling terrain, where teams will need to manage their efforts carefully to reach the Kestell Team Support Zone before the cut-off.
Kestell Team Support Zone
The official Team Support Zone is located in front of the Kestell Hotel, where teams can meet their accredited support vehicles. Breakfast, light meals and refreshments will be available for purchase.
Teams must arrive at the Support Zone before 11h30 to remain in the event.
A maximum 30-minute time-out is permitted at the Support Zone. The team’s race clock stops when the sixth rider crosses the entry timing pod and restarts when the first rider crosses the exit timing pod.
Important: Team support vehicles are strictly prohibited from following riders along the route. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.
Kestell to Clarens | Final 90 km (approx.)
The second half of the route presents the event’s toughest challenges as teams make their way towards the spectacular Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
With the highest point reaching 2,050 m above sea level, riders will face demanding climbs and breathtaking mountain scenery.
One of the route’s most formidable challenges is the Mine Shaft, featuring a maximum gradient of 22% at approximately the 155 km mark.
Teams will need to conserve energy, work together and maintain a consistent pace to reach the finish in Clarens before the final cut-off.
Route Statistics at a Glance
| Route Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total distance | 180 km |
| Total elevation gain | 2,220 m |
| Average altitude | Approximately 1,900 m |
| Highest point | 2,050 m – Golden Gate Highlands National Park |
| Steepest gradient | 22% – Mine Shaft |
| Steepest climb location | Approximately 155 km |
Refreshment & Feeding Stations
Five stations will be available along the route, providing opportunities to replenish fluids and energy supplies.
| Station | Distance | Location |
|---|---|---|
| RS 1 | 40 km | Just outside Bethlehem |
| RS 2 | 70 km | Before the R57 turn towards Kestell |
| RS 3 | 125 km | Between Phuthaditjhaba and Golden Gate Highlands National Park |
| RS 4 | 148 km | Protea Corner, Golden Gate Highlands National Park |
| RS 5 | 153 km | Red Mountains Lookout, Golden Gate Highlands National Park |
Compulsory Cut-Off Times
| Location | Cut-off |
|---|---|
| Kestell Team Support Zone | 11h30 |
| Refreshment Station 5 | 15h30 |
| Finish Line – Clarens | 16h45 |
Important Team Riding Regulations
To ensure a safe and fair event, all teams must adhere to the following regulations:
- Teams must remain separate: Teams may not join or ride together at any point along the route, except when overtaking.
- Overtaking: Teams must ride in single file when passing another team until completely clear.
- Support vehicles: Vehicles may not follow teams or provide assistance outside the designated Team Support Zone in Kestell.
- Road safety: Riders must obey traffic regulations, follow marshal instructions and exercise caution on roads open to public traffic.
Failure to comply with event regulations may result in penalties or disqualification.
King and Queen of the Maluti
Ready to take on an extra challenge? Keep an eye out for the King and Queen of the Maluti segment markers as you ride through the spectacular Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Give it your best effort, record your ride on Strava and stand a chance to claim the title of King or Queen of the Maluti, along with a R1,000 cash prize.
View the Strava segment HERE.
Route Map
GPX File – CLICK HERE to download
