Cycling Marathons Calendar

Cycling marathons offer numerous opportunities for riders of all levels to experience remarkable events around the world. Below is an informative guide to some of the prominent cycling marathons you might want to include in your calendar.

Tour Down Under

Held in January, this Australian race marks the start of the UCI World Tour. It’s known for its warm weather and enthusiastic crowds. Apart from professional races, there’s also a people’s ride associated with this event.

Strade Bianche

Taking place in early March in Italy, this race is famous for its challenging gravel roads. The start and finish are in Siena, making it a picturesque experience. Riders navigate the Tuscan landscape, which is quite a spectacle.

Paris-Roubaix

Known as the Hell of the North, this April classic in France features brutal cobblestone sections. The unpredictable weather adds to the challenge, making it a must-watch for cycling enthusiasts.

Liège-Bastogne-Liège

Held in late April, this is one of the oldest cycling races. It takes place in Belgium, and the route is notoriously hilly. It tests the endurance and skill of all participants.

Giro d’Italia

Running through May, this grand tour spans three weeks. Italy’s diverse terrain and scenic beauty make it a favorite. The pink jersey, or Maglia Rosa, is awarded to the overall leader.

Criterium du Dauphiné

Held in June, this French race is often seen as a precursor to the Tour de France. The course features many of the same climbs and intense competition. It’s a valuable preparation ground for Tour de France contenders.

Tour de France

Arguably the most famous cycling race, it takes place in July. Covering diverse landscapes, it starts in various locations but always finishes in Paris. The yellow jersey symbolizes the race leader.

Vuelta a España

Taking place in late August to September, this grand tour is known for its mountainous stages. It’s the final grand tour of the season and often surprises with unexpected leaders.

Il Lombardia

This October race in Italy is known as The Race of the Falling Leaves. It features challenging climbs and beautiful autumn scenery. The race caps off the European cycling calendar.

RideLondon

Held in May, this event encompasses professional races and amateur rides. Starting in London and venturing into Surrey, it’s one of the more accessible marathons for everyday riders.

Amgen Tour of California

This week-long race in May goes through diverse Californian landscapes. It’s a significant event on the American cycling calendar. It features both coastal and mountainous terrains, offering variety.

Tour of Flanders

Held in early April in Belgium, it’s famous for its short, steep climbs and cobblestone sectors. It’s a part of the Flemish Cycling Week, a time of high excitement in the region.

Prudential RideLondon

Prudential RideLondon provides different events for all levels, including the 100-mile ride. It offers closed-road routes through the capital and into the scenic Surrey Hills.

Gran Fondo New York

Held in May, this marathon offers a closed-road experience in one of the world’s most iconic cities. It finishes at Fort Lee, New Jersey, crossing the George Washington Bridge twice.

Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic

Takes place in May in Pennsylvania. It’s a unique multi-day race that features technical trails and stunning views. Ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Tour de Suisse

This June race is seen as a Tour de France warm-up. Its challenging climbs and varied stages make it an essential part of the UCI World Tour.

Tour of Britain

Occurring in early September, this week-long race moves through various UK regions. It appeals to a broad audience due to its changing scenery and competitive spirit.

Granfondo Stelvio Santini

Held in June in Italy, this marathon features a famous climb, the Passo dello Stelvio. Riders culminate their journey at the top, providing a significant challenge and accomplishment.

Maratona dles Dolomites

Also in June, this Italian event is considered one of the most beautiful and tough cycling marathons. It traverses the Dolomites, offering both splendid views and rigorous climbs.

Etape du Tour

Allows amateur riders to experience a Tour de France stage. Scheduled in July, participants ride on closed roads with full support. It provides a pro-race experience.

Leadville Trail 100 MTB

Taking place in August in Colorado, this mountain bike race is one of the toughest. It covers high altitudes and rugged terrain. Completing it is a badge of honor among serious cyclists.

The Dirty Kanza

Known as Unbound Gravel, this Kansas race occurs in late spring. It’s one of the premier gravel races, featuring harsh gravel roads and challenging weather conditions.

The Cape Epic

This South African event in March is considered the Tour de France of mountain biking. It spans eight days and covers various terrains, showcasing the beauty and extreme conditions of the region.