Reputation: Regional KS event.
[01]
Course Overview
Kansas Flint Hills gravel in Leonardville.
65 mi
Distance
3,500 ft
Elevation
Leonardville, Kansas
Location
April 5-6, 2025
Date
~200
Field Size
$60-100
Entry Cost
Facts & History
[03]
The Course
Rolling Flint Hills prairie gravel with moderate climbing.
Signature challenge: Flint Hills prairie gravel in central Kansas.
20
MILE
Early Rollers
First rolling prairie sections.
35
MILE
Midpoint
Halfway through the course.
55
MILE
Final Rollers
Final rolling sections before finish.
RACER
Racer Reviews
Raced Switchgrass? Be the first to rate it.
[07]
Training
April 5, 2025 SWITCHGRASS
[08]
Train for Switchgrass
RACE DEMAND PROFILE
Durability
2
Climbing
4
VO2 Power
4
Threshold
5
Technical
4
Heat
1
Altitude
2
Race Specificity
6
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[09]
Race Logistics
Airport
Manhattan (MHK) 30 minutes or Kansas City (MCI) 2 hours
Lodging
Leonardville has limited lodging. Manhattan has more options.
Food
Small town with limited dining. Stock nutrition.
Packet Pickup
Day before typically
Parking
At start/finish
[10]
Tire Picks
38mmMIXED
1
Specialized Pathfinder Pro
high puncture protection for sharp surfaces
2
Goodyear Connector
high puncture protection for sharp surfaces
3
Continental Terra Trail
high puncture protection for sharp surfaces
FRONT/REAR SPLIT Vittoria Terreno Dry 40mm / Specialized Pathfinder Pro 38mmFaster front for reduced rolling resistance on straights, grippier rear for traction on loose climbs and corners
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Similar Races
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like at Switchgrass?
Mid-80s temperatures create heat management challenges. Muir experienced how "the temps were in the mid-80s and the heat got my attention...A few hours later the mercury started cranking back up again" after dawn relief. More weather exposure than Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego.[1]
How are the logistics for Switchgrass?
Graham 'Bush' Muir hit mechanical issues early: "After only 40 miles in, I was plugging a hole in my first flat of the race." The course relies entirely on GPS navigation with "no event signs marking turns from roads to dirt paths or grass trails to gravel."[1]
How adventurous is Switchgrass?
The course travels through authentic Flint Hills where "the big bluestem and the wild alfalfa and the switchgrass and the Indian grass and the buffalo grass waving and swaying in the wind" create immersive prairie adventure beyond typical gravel racing.[2]
How prestigious is Switchgrass?
The event connects to Kansas's premier IMBA Epic trail system but lacks major industry recognition. Riders tackle challenging distances that push personal limits rather than competing for significant cycling community status or media coverage.[1]
Should I race Switchgrass?
If you're in Kansas and want a local Flint Hills event—yes, it's a solid regional race. If you're from out of state—there are better options.
[11]
Sources & Citations
Research sources used to build this race profile. Always verify details with official race sources before making travel or registration decisions.
- Official Official Websitewww.empireswitchgrass.com/about-switchgrass
- Route Maps RideWithGPS: Switchgrass Loopridewithgps.com/routes/53002568
- Community themaniclab.com: Unbound Gravel Xl 2021www.themaniclab.com/posts/unbound-gravel-xl-2021