If you are looking for the best cycling races in the US, then you are at the right place!
Cycling race is a thrilling event for both viewers and participants. Slower than car rallies but faster than foot-races, these races tend to provide a memorable impact upon the viewers. The United States of America is one of the largest hubs, producing world class cyclists. The first American bike race took place in 1878 in Boston, Massachusetts. Moreover, Chicago soon became the hub of bike racing in the country.
Below The List Of Best Cycling Races In the US
Dirty Kanza 200
Where: Flint Hills region of Kansas
When: May (first Saturday after Memorial Day)
As it sounds, Dirty Kanza is popular for its rugged and rough route. The competitiveness of this event has been the main cause for its glamour. 1500 participants tend to participate, and eventually narrow down to 34 participants in the inaugural event. The completion of the 200-mile ultramarathon is itself an award for the participants effort and dedication. But, don’t worry if you aren’t ready for a long-distance event, then you can opt for the 100-mile race. But, beware of the rocky and dangerous hills of Kansas, as it can be thrill for some and a matter of life and death for some!
Tour of Battenkill
Where: Greenwich, New York
When: Late May
The largest pro-amateur bicycle road race in North America is held in New York’s Battenkill valley. Unlike Kansas, Battenkill valley provides a lush green, exotic landscape, where nature is at its peak. Lush greenery, blossoming flowers, lakes reflecting the sky, and valleys tearing mountains add life to the cycle race. Although the distance is shorter than the rest of contemporary events, but the dynamics of this event make the experience worth wile.
Race Across America
Where: Oceanside, California, to Annapolis, Maryland
When: June
The race across America is a life time experience and a global achievement. The 3000-mile super ultramarathon is 30 % longer than the grand event of Tour de France. For 36 years this event has been challenging extreme cyclists all around the world to push their physical and mental limits.
The event starts in Oceanside, intersects 12 states, and climbs 175,000 feet. The route of this event intercepts four largest rivers of America, three major mountain ranges, and iconic landmarks such as Sonoran deserts, Gettysburg, and Monument Valley.
Barry-Roubaix
Where: Hastings, Michigan
When: Late March
A classic-style cycling experience featuring a variety of terrains to test cyclists of multiple levels. The four race lengths of Barry-Roubaix provide riders of different calibers to test their skills. It is also the largest gravel road bicycle race in the world. The race starts with over 3800 participants, and rewards winners over 34,000$. Wave starts provides riders ample of time to enjoy the scenery and landscapes.
Tour of Utah Ultimate Challenge
Where: Utah (exact location varies)
When: Early August
If you want your legs and quads to scream for mercy then this event is just for you! An ultimate fitness test and endurance challenge! But simultaneously, the compelling scenery across Utah, compensates for its difficulty. Highlighting some of the world’s best cyclists and teams for seven days in August, this event attracts global attention as the top international cycling event following the great Tour de France. The week-long Tour of Utah has attained the reputation as “America’s Toughest Stage Race,” incorporating Utah’s profuse natural beauty with consistent elevation changes and difficult mountain climbs.
Crater Lake Century
Where: Crater Lake, Oregon
When: Late August
Surrounding the deepest lake in the United States and the 7th deepest in the world, this ride starts at the Fort Klamath Museum on Crater Lake Highway (Rte 62) at 4,000 ft elevation. Even amongst volcanic wonders, Crater Lake could be difficult to describe The lake itself inspires cyclists to exert to their fullest extent. The bright blue lake reflecting the sky provides heavenly experience for the cyclists and makes them feel as if they are riding the skies. It is dubbed as “the best race in Oregon” by bicycling magazine.
Tour of California
Where: California
When: Mid to late May
The tour of California is an extremely competitive event amongst other events. Only the pros and workaholics get across the finish line. If you are dreaming to fight in this heart throbbing war, you have to train until pain is your mate. Event arrangements are the specialty for this event. Refreshments, mechanics, and judge-selection tend to be the highest of the organizer’s priorities.
Leadville 100 MTB
Where: Leadville, Colorado
When: Mid-August
Each year only 65% of participants make it till the finish line. If you want yourself to be amongst the lucky few you need to train really hard for this event. Achieving the elevation of more than 13,000 feet, this rocky terrain challenges major cyclists all across America. Held in 1994 for the first time, The Leadville 100 MTB is the second oldest 100-mile event amongst other events held in United States. The course comprises of gravel roads and mild trails.
Mt. Tam Century Ride
Where: Marin County, California
When: Early August
If you are looking for a breathtaking experience then this one is just for you. Don’t judge this event by its distance, as its distance is deluding. Elevated terrains, rocky roads, and extreme endurance is required to finish this 100-mile event. On the contrary, cyclists find this event more challenging and thrilling as compared to other events. According to a survey held in 2019, 96% riders recommended the Marin Century to a friend. 6 route options, each with a higher elevation allow cyclists to challenge themselves. The rest stops and post-ride food incorporate 15 fresh fruits including strawberries and cherries, baked goods, Brie cheese, and CloverSonoma chocolate milk etc.
