Central Texas Showdown 2026

The Central Texas Showdown starts riders from Castell, a small Hill Country town where the Castell General Store serves as the start, finish, and neutral support location. The main Showdown is a 500-mile mixed-surface ultra cycling race held in October. Pavement forms the majority of the course, with gravel, dirt, washboard, and sandy roads presenting the challenges. Riders also have shorter routes available: the 296-mile Slowdown is also a mixed-surface ultra race, while the 167-mile Lowdown is a self-supported ride, not a race. The route crosses the remote roads of the Central Texas Hill Country, consisting of approximately three quarters pavement and one quarter gravel or dirt, making tire selection a critical decision. A distinctive feature is the Death Loop: Showdown riders must complete a 60-mile loop that begins at the finish line. Bikes or Death organizes the event, conceived by Patrick of the Bikes or Death Podcast, following the East Texas Showdown format. The Lowdown includes reserved group campsites for Friday and Saturday nights, offering participants a designated spot to regroup while maintaining their self-supported plan.