Nedbank Gravel Burn has confirmed a unique, collaborative partnership with bike industry brands to bolster the event’s race-week Tech Support for the seven-day gravel stage race in the Karoo from 25 to 31 October. Component manufacturers Shimano and SRAM are named as the event’s Industry Partners.
Given the unpredictable road surfaces and conditions over seven days and 750km of gravel racing, neutral tech support is key to the rider experience. Mechanicals do happen out in the remoteness of the Karoo, but a single, hidden rock should never be the cause of a rider being unable to continue with their race. In keeping with the event’s philosophy, the same premium-level tech support is to be available to every rider and Nedbank Gravel Burn continues this non-exclusive, collaborative approach to bike industry partnerships, welcoming brands across the spectrum.
Out on the course, SRAM and Shimano will provide Tech Support at all Padstals (the local name given to on-route service stations). All riders, from major professional team members to “privateer” racers, as well as all Age Group categories, have complimentary access to the on-route technicians’ expertise (riders only cover the cost of replacement parts).
Both Shimano and SRAM will offer neutral support at the 2026 Gravel Burn. Photo by James Cameron Heron/Gravel Burn.
Post-stage in the Burn Camps, independent service providers offer comprehensive maintenance and repair packages in the designated workshop areas. Parts depots with SRAM, Shimano and Campagnolo, as well as warranty support and workshop know-how, will be available. Riders may take advantage of this service by either purchasing priority packages in advance or as ad-hoc walk-in repair and maintenance.
Edition #2 builds on the inaugural event in 2025 when Specialized South Africa and its retailer network played a central role in supporting the riders at Padstals and in Burn Camps. The brand remains a valued Industry Partner for 2026, including at the pre-event Training Camp at Shamwari from 11 to 13 September.
Kevin Vermaak, founder of Nedbank Gravel Burn, said, “The priority is getting the rider to the finish. This supersedes any exclusive sponsorship deal – neutral support on-course for all, fully equipped workshops in the Burn Camps and package options for riders who want professional bike care throughout the week. Riders may choose a provider and reserve a slot directly with them. What we offer is a platform to ensure there is top-level and fair support for the riders, covering almost any eventuality.”
Neutral service will be available at each Padstal. Photo by Paul Ganse/Gravel Burn.
Sam Bull at Rush Sports (representing SRAM in South Africa) said the partnership is about backing riders in real conditions. “They put their bikes through terrain you will not see in a catalogue, yet with the expectation of finishing the race – the demand on equipment can be extreme. Being a part of Nedbank Gravel Burn is about helping riders get back on the road when things go wrong.”
Steve Meltzer at Coolheat (Shimano’s South African distributor) said, “Riders deserve the same confidence in the middle of the Karoo that they have at home. Shimano has been part of South African cycling for decades. We are proud to join as an Industry Partner, working alongside SRAM so riders can focus on the race, knowing support is there if they need it.”
Riders who would like daily bike care may book week-long service packages directly with Techno Guide, a leading South African race support provider. All optional technical service packages are arranged with providers, not through Nedbank Gravel Burn.
Potential adverse weather and long stages necessitate the need for neutral service support. Photo by Fahwaaz Cornelius/Gravel Burn.
Full details are available on the Nedbank Gravel Burn website under Optional Extras.
