Big Sugar Gravel
Big Sugar Gravel runs from Bentonville on 1 October 2026 over 160 kilometres of Ozark gravel in north-west Arkansas.
Ask anyone who has ridden it and they talk about the rock before they talk about the climbing. The gravel here is sharp, chunky chert, and cut sidewalls are the most common reason people do not finish. Tyres with real casing protection, run at a pressure you would think too low on the road, are the cheapest insurance available.
The profile is rolling rather than mountainous, which sounds gentle across 160 kilometres and is not. The climbs are short and endlessly repeated, so there is no rhythm to settle into and the effort arrives as hundreds of small spikes.
Early October in Arkansas is usually cool in the morning and warm by the afternoon. Bentonville is a real cycling town, which makes the logistics of the weekend easier than at most gravel races.
Who it's for
A solid challenge for committed cycling athletes.
Good fit if you…
- have done a few events and want a real challenge
- want a well-known, high-status race
What should you know about Big Sugar Gravel?
- Date
- Saturday, 17 October 2026
- Format
- 160 km
Need to know
When is Big Sugar Gravel 2026?
Big Sugar Gravel takes place on Thursday, 1 October 2026. Dates can move year to year, so confirm the exact day on the official race page before you book travel.
How do you register for Big Sugar Gravel?
Where does Big Sugar Gravel take place?
Bentonville, United States
FAQs
What do athletes ask about Big Sugar Gravel?
Where is Big Sugar Gravel held?
Big Sugar Gravel is held in Bentonville, the United States. The race page has the venue location and a map, and links straight through to the official site for the precise start area.
What distances can you race at Big Sugar Gravel?
Big Sugar Gravel offers 160 km. Pick your distance and enter on the official site. Each format usually has its own start wave and cut-offs.
How hard is Big Sugar Gravel?
Big Sugar Gravel is rated serious (3/5) for difficulty on FindMyNextRace, based on its distance, terrain, and the level of the field. Use that as a guide and match it to your current fitness before you commit.
What is the terrain like at Big Sugar Gravel?
Big Sugar Gravel is held on mixed-surface terrain. Terrain shapes your pacing, kit, and shoe choice, so factor it into your prep. The official course page has the detailed route.
How do I enter Big Sugar Gravel?
You enter Big Sugar Gravel through the official organiser. Registration is handled on their site, and FindMyNextRace links you straight there. Places for popular editions can sell out early, so register as soon as entry opens.
Is Big Sugar Gravel part of a race series?
Yes, Big Sugar Gravel is part of the UCI Gravel World Series series. Series events often share a qualification, points, or championship pathway, so if you're chasing the series, check how this race fits its calendar.
How should I train for Big Sugar Gravel?
Training for Big Sugar Gravel depends on your target distance and current fitness. Most athletes follow a structured block of 12–20 weeks for a 160 km effort. Build a plan tailored to your race date and level with AI Training Plan (https://aitrainingplan.app).
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