Much of the work on this moderate and scenic race is done in the first half. The race starts off with a fairly challenging climb to Mount Pleasant before an easy descent. The second climb near the 20-kilometre mark to Threescombe is challenging enough, but once done gives you time to settle into your rhythm. The hill at Welcome Road is an ideal place for the climbers to make a break and get some distance between them and the rest.

The notorious Maitland Hill may not be as steep or as hard as the earlier climbs, but because it is over 50 kilometres into the race it will prove a tester. The pull to Heron Road and the 80-kilometre marker is moderate and should not be too tiring. The final stretch from Schoenmakerskop is a pleasant scenic ride to the finish. This section may well be a fast ride as long as the southeaster is not blowing.