About the race
Ride Joburg is a mass-participation road cycling event in South Africa's largest city. Its pitch to riders is simple: for one morning, cyclists get to pedal along the M1 highway and the surrounding streets of Johannesburg, with the skyline and the city's varied neighbourhoods as the backdrop.
History
The organiser's website says the event has been going for 29 years, hosted in partnership with the City of Johannesburg, and describes its role as showing off the city's energy to cyclists from around the world.
The course
The organiser describes the ride as a journey along the M1 and through the streets of the city, rather than on quiet country roads. Riders spend the day among high-rise buildings, busy suburbs and the sights and sounds that the organiser calls a rich tapestry of Johannesburg life. Detailed maps and profiles sit in the riders' guide published for each edition.
Distances
Two road events are offered: a 97 km road race for those who want a full-distance challenge, and a 35 km short ride for newer riders, families and anyone after a gentler outing. The site also mentions a free ride option, and a training portal to help riders prepare.
Cut-offs and entry
Entry is online through the event's website. The organiser notes that entries for the most recent edition have closed and invites riders to join Ride Joburg 2026. Start groups are linked to seeding events, which the site lists on its own page, and there are separate entry routes for single riders and for groups, companies and clubs. Hospitality packages, a "Ride with a Purpose" charity option and an FAQ are also listed. Check the riders' guide for cut-off times for the current edition.
Results and following the day
After the event, official results, live results and photographs are published on the site, and riders are directed to the Peak Timing app for results. A merchandise range is sold for finishers. The organiser's pages did not list specific spectator points.
Weather
November falls in the Highveld summer, the rainy season around Johannesburg. Mornings are usually pleasant and warm, with the chance of afternoon thunderstorms building later in the day. Riders usually plan for sun in the early hours and a possible change in conditions, which is general seasonal behaviour and not a forecast.
SourcesRide Joburg home