The OG American Spring Classic. 130 miles of kasseien-crushing brutality where 1 in 3 riders DNF, and the survivors earn
4,200 miles from the Pacific to the Atlantic. The longest road ultra-race on earth. Self-supported across 10 states. Ame
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Trans Am Bike Race scores 11 points higher overall (90 vs 79), but the right choice depends on what you value most.
"Belgian suffering translated to sunny San Diego, where Double Peak turns roadies into believers and flatlanders into casualties."
"The longest self-supported bike race on earth—4,200+ miles from Pacific to Atlantic, crossing 10 states, no support crews, pure transcontinental adventure."
Trans Am Bike Race rates as the more demanding race based on our composite difficulty score (averaging length, technicality, elevation, climate, and altitude ratings). If you're looking for the bigger challenge, go with Trans Am Bike Race. If you want a more accessible race, Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego is the better pick.
Trans Am Bike Race scores 90/100 compared to 79/100 in our 15-dimension Gravel God Rating. The overall score reflects course profile, prestige, race quality, community, and value.
Trans Am Bike Race is generally more accessible for first-time gravel racers, factoring in distance, technicality, and logistical ease. Check each race's full profile for distance options and beginner-specific advice.
Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego takes place in April and Trans Am Bike Race in June. If your calendar allows, you could race both in the same season.
Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego is held in Del Mar, California. Trans Am Bike Race is held in Astoria, Oregon to Yorktown, Virginia. Consider travel logistics, especially if you're flying in — check our full race profiles for airport and lodging details.
Get a personalized training plan for either race — tailored to your fitness, schedule, and goals.
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