10 Offbeat Cycling Competitions Across the Globe

Cycling isn't just about the Tour de France; there's a world of wacky races out there!

Imagine pedaling naked or chasing donuts — quite offbeat, huh?

Got a bike and a sense of adventure?

Discover events where spandex isn't the norm and quirky is the course.

From the frost-bitten trails of Alaska to the urban hustles where couriers compete, the sphere of cycling is diverse.

Trust us to guide you through these wild rides, where the unusual is usual and the finish line is only a part of the fun.

Red Bull Monserrate Cerro Abajo (Bogotá, Colombia)

Ever imagined biking down at breakneck speeds in an urban setting?

Let's take a quick dive into the Red Bull Monserrate Cerro Abajo race in Bogotá, Colombia.

Picture this: You're at the top of Monserrate Hill, looking down a 2.4km track – the longest urban downhill race globally.

What's the catch?

It's not just any hill; it's a thrilling descent replete with stairs, tight corners, and all the urban fixtures to test your metal!

Did You Know?

• Location: Monserrate Hill, Bogotá, Colombia
• Path: 2.4km of urban downhill
• Challenge: Stairs and tight urban corners

Could you see yourself tearing down this course?

The local riders certainly can and do, often dominating with their experience of the area.

They thread their bikes through the endless stairways and obstacles above the Colombian capital with agility and precision that's simply mind-boggling.

What Makes It Unique?

• Urban Setting: Unlike typical mountain bike races, this one weaves through a city landscape.
• Longest of Its Kind: It's the world's longest race down urban steps!
• The Atmosphere: Spectators line up along the course, adding to the electrifying ambiance.

So, whenever you're in Bogotá around race time, why not catch this extreme cycling event?

Might just spark the daredevil in you!

And if you don't fancy the spill and thrill, watching is just as exhilarating.

Who knows, you might end up cheering louder than the cyclist!

World Naked Bike Ride (Various Locations)

Ever felt the rush of air on your skin while pedaling through the city streets?

Imagine doing it with nothing but your birthday suit on!

That's right, we're talking about the World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR), an annual, worldwide event that stands out for its bold statement and vibrant atmosphere.

The event isn't just for show; there's a serious message behind it.

It highlights the vulnerability of cyclists on the road and is a rallying cry for reducing our reliance on cars, aiming for cleaner, safer streets.

Whether you're in London, where the event celebrated its 20th anniversary, or winding through the streets of New Orleans' historic neighborhoods, the WNBR unites people globally.

Here's the nitty-gritty:

• What? A clothing-optional bike ride, promoting environmental consciousness.
• Who participates? Cyclists and eco-activists eager to make a point.
• Why? To underscore the fragility of cyclists and promote a sustainable way of living.

Are you thinking of participating, or maybe starting up a ride in your hometown?

It's straightforward!

You'll find rides mapped out on Google Maps, with resources easily available to guide your own eco-friendly protest on wheels.

And don't worry about the numbers — record participation has shown that this event only grows bigger and stronger each year.

So, grab your helmet (and maybe some sunscreen), and join in the movement for a greener and more body-positive world one pedal at a time!

Whether you're there to support the cause, observe the spectacle, or enjoy a unique cycling experience, the World Naked Bike Ride is an event that's hard to miss.

Just remember, while the dress code is "as bare as you dare," the spirit is all about safety, respect, and positive change.

Single Speed World Championship (Various Locations)

Have you ever craved the thrill of a bike race but with a twist?

Let's talk about the Single Speed World Championship, an event that's all about the simplicity of one gear and the sheer joy of cycling.

Each year, a new location is chosen, adding an element of travel and discovery to the mix.

Picture this: 260 participants gathering, not just for competition, but for camaraderie.

Since the championship's official debut in 1999, it's been a delightful mishmash of serious racing and frolicsome challenges.

What's on the agenda, you ask?

There might be pub crawls, bike love—in both shonky and bling forms—and even some pre-race games.

Don't be fooled by the merrymaking; when race day arrives, it's a genuine contest.

You'll be pushing pedals through grueling courses, like the Cairngorm hills in Scotland—a recent host.

But here's the best part: regardless of the winner, everyone's in for a treat.

Think of it as a festival where the bike is the star and the riders are the enthusiastic audience.

Did I mention the afterwards party?

As the sun sets, the event transforms.

It's a chance to forge friendships over a shared passion for single-speed bikes.

And while the World Champion earns the right to wear a special jersey, each participant goes home with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

So, pack your gear, prep your bike, and maybe I'll see you there next year, ready for an adventure on one gear!

Strider Cup World Championship (Various Locations)

Ever watched a two-year-old in race mode?

The Strider Cup World Championship is not your ordinary cycling event.

It's where toddlers and tykes get their first taste of racing—and trust me, they take their pedal-less bikes pretty seriously.

Who's welcome?

Kids from 2 to 4 years old are the stars here.

They line up with their balance bikes, hearts thumping, ready to zoom across the finish line.

This isn't just about winning; it’s about balance, coordination, and pure joy.

The tracks are tailored with twists and cones suitable for these mini racers.

And the stakes are high with the Strider World Championship on the horizon.

• When and where? This is no small-scale affair. The event sweeps across various locations worldwide, culminating in prestigious championships. For instance, past events have been in Osaka, Japan, and Salt Lake City, USA.
• What's at stake? Besides the glory, participants at certain events qualify for the championships and a chance to race against international peers.

Here's what you should know:

• Age Categories: Separated into 2, 3, and 4-year-olds to level the playing field.
• International Flavor: The championship is a melting pot. Envision kids from Japan, Europe, and the USA sharing the tracks!

Curious about the scope?

Over 250 tykes descended upon Arkansas for a 2023 event, peddling towards victory without even breaking a sweat!

Interested in signing your little one up?

Keep an eye on Strider events—it's a great way to introduce them to the cycling world, after all.

And who knows?

Your toddler might just be the next cycling prodigy in the making.

The Brompton World Championship (London, UK)

Have you ever fancied cycling in your best suit or fanciest frock?

Then you, my friend, are ready for a quirky ride at the Brompton World Championship in London!

This isn’t your typical race—imagine a scene where riders dash to unfold their Brompton bikes in a heart-pumping Le Mans-style start.

Yep, it’s as exciting as it sounds!

Event Details:

• Date: 21 - 23 June 2024
• Location: Heart of London, circuit around Coal Drops Yard
• Attire: Mandatory formal wear

This is where style meets speed.

Riders, dressed to the nines, must sprint to their folded bikes, unfurl them, and pedal away on a specially designed circuit that adds a little more charm to the already picturesque London.

It's not just about speed; it's a showcase of agility, quick thinking, and of course, a sense of humor!

Did you know?

• Over 500 competitors set the Kings Cross circuit ablaze with their speed and style in 2024.
• The Brompton Championship was part of the larger London Cycling Festival, known to combine races with vibrant stalls offering everything from cycling gear to a good old cup of coffee.

So, grab your helmet and your bow tie, and make sure you’re in London next June.

It’s not just a race; it’s a spectacle that embodies the spirit of cycling, the uniqueness of Brompton bikes, and the undeniable flair of British pageantry.

Ready to be part of this extraordinary wheeled adventure?

Keep your eyes peeled for race tickets and further event details releasing soon.

See you at the starting line—just remember to fold and go!

Tour de Donut (Illinois, USA)

Ever fancied a cycling competition where your love for donuts could actually give you a competitive edge?

Well, in Staunton, Illinois, there's a quirky event called the Tour de Donut that combines the speed of riding with the gluttony of donut eating.

Imagine pedaling through a scenic 34-mile route that not only tests your cycling prowess but also your ability to wolf down donuts.

Sure, you might consider yourself a serious cyclist, but can you handle this calorie-laden challenge?

Here's how it works:

• You start with the mass of riders, each revving to showcase their speed and syrupy stamina.
• As you traverse the course, you'll encounter two crucial "donut stops," which are your gateways to trimming down your race time.
• For every donut you eat and keep down, 5 minutes are shaved off your time. Sounds sweet, right?

Feeling a tad intimidated by the full 34 miles?

There's also a 12-mile ride for those who prefer a shorter sprinkle of fun without the pressure of time.

Remember, registration comes with goodies!

Sign up before June 15, and you're guaranteed a free T-shirt.

But if deadlines aren't your thing, there's still a chance to grab some swag with late registration while supplies last.

Here's a taste of the event details:

• Race Type: Timed event with RFID Automated timing
• Distance: Main race - 34 miles, Shorter ride - 12 miles
• Donut Stops: Main race - 2 stops, Shorter ride - 1 stop

So, do you think you've got the pedal power and the donut-devouring prowess to conquer this deliciously unique event?

Grab your bike, your appetite, and join the fun!

The Iditarod Trail Invitational (Alaska, USA)

Have you ever imagined cycling through snowdrifts and over frozen rivers, under the vast Alaskan sky?

Well, my friend, the Iditarod Trail Invitational is just the winter odyssey for thrill-seekers like you!

Think Alaska, and the first thing that pops up is that classic dog sledding race, right?

But hold on to your handlebars, because the Iditarod Trail isn't just for the dogs.

A week before the fuzzy pals dash through the snow, adventurers from around the globe gather on fat bikes, skis, or just their own two feet to embark on the world's premier winter endurance competition.

Why fat bikes, you ask?

These beasts come with wide tires perfect for gripping onto the icy landscapes.

With a choice of either a 350-mile sprint or a whopping 1,000-mile marathon to Nome, this race is not for the faint of heart.

You'll battle freezing winds, navigate through blizzards, and if you're not careful, you might just take an accidental dip into Alaskan waters!

• Starting Line: Knik Lake, Alaska
• Finish Line for the 1,000-mile race: Nome, Alaska

Intrigued?

Here's the lowdown:

• Name: Iditarod Trail Invitational
• Where: Alaska, USA
• Distance: 350 or 1,000 miles
• Terrain: Snow, ice, and everything nice...if you're tough enough!

Imagine telling your buddies you cycled where sled dogs reign supreme—it's a tale for the grandkids!

And while the Iditarod Trail Invitational might not be your usual Sunday park ride, it's a testament to the raw beauty and challenge of Mother Nature at her coldest.

Will you be adding this to your bucket list?

The World Hardcourt Bike Polo Championship (Various Locations)

Have you ever heard of a sport that's a quirky mash-up of polo, hockey, and cycling?

Let's talk about the World Hardcourt Bike Polo Championship!

Imagine the thrill of players deftly whizzing across a smooth, hard court, mallet in hand, focused on one thing – scoring goals.

Yep, it’s exactly as exciting as it sounds!

• What is it? A global event where teams showcase their bike handling, strategic play, and mallet mastery.
• Where does it happen? Unlike traditional sports, this championship doesn't call one place home; it hops around, gracing a new city with its high-paced action every couple of years.

The championship has a sort of nomadic spirit, don't you think?

One year you're packing your helmet to cheer in France, and the next, who knows?

That's the beauty of it – the world is literally their playground.

In 2024, for instance, the competition may return to its 2022 archives or find a new bustling city to leave its mark on.

Participants and followers alike eagerly await to see where their bikes will take them next.

Feeling a little FOMO?

Keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming NAH Regional Qualifier locations and dates, as these serve as the perfect pregame before the main event.

Remember, this isn't just any tournament; it's a test of agility, strategy, and pure bike-centric fun.

It’s inclusive, it’s competitive, and it’s one heck of a spectator sport.

Don't you just love how sports can bring people together?

The World Hardcourt Bike Polo Championship does just that, turning cities into vibrant hubs of sportsmanship and camaraderie, even if the pandemic threw a wrench in the works for a year or two.

And remember, if watching isn't enough and you want to be the one dodging and scoring – there's plenty of room on the court for new champs.

Who knows, maybe we'll be cheering for you next!

Megavalanche (Alpe d'Huez, France)

Ever imagined starting a cycling competition from a glacier?

Well, say hello to the Megavalanche in Alpe d'Huez, France—truly in a league of its own!

This isn't your average bike race.

Picture this: you're lined up at over 3,300 meters above sea level on the Pic Blanc glacier.

The crisp mountain air is buzzing with the anticipation of riders from around the world.

Then suddenly, you're off!

What starts as a chilling descent on snow quickly morphs into a gripping dash down rocky paths and lush alpine trails.

Here's what you can expect:

• Start: Dome des Rousses (2810m)
• Finish: Alpe d'Huez (1800m)

Getting there involves a bit of an adventure: you'd take the DMC Grandes Rousses lift up to 2100m, and then catch the gondola to Dome des Rousses.

Keep in mind that a lift pass is a must!

Now, let's talk about timing:

• Access the lift: 45min to 1 hour ahead
• Line-up: 20 minutes before the starting gun
• First Heat: 10:30am

Feel that heartbeat?

That's the thrill of the Megavalanche.

Since 1995, this race has been a magnet for enduro mountain bike aficionados and anyone seeking the rush of a true downhill challenge.

Covering diverse terrain with a palpable sense of adventure, it's more than just a race—it's an unforgettable experience where you pit yourself against the mountain.

So, have you got what it takes to ride the Mega?

Cycle Messenger World Championships (Various Locations)

Ever thought your cycling skills could earn you a world title?

Well, if you're a bike messenger or just someone who loves the thrill of urban cycling, the Cycle Messenger World Championships (CMWC) might be your playing field.

This annual event is not your average pedal-pushing competition—it's a gathering that celebrates the skill, speed, and savviness of bicycle messengers from every corner of the globe.

Why should you care?

Because this isn't just about who crosses the finish line first.

It's a test of real-world messenger mettle.

Participants are thrown into situations that mirror the day-to-day hustle of urban bike couriering.

• Speed: How fast can you deliver packages across a busy city?
• Agility: Are you adept at zipping through traffic and avoiding obstacles?
• Navigation: Can you find the quickest routes without getting lost?

Every year, this competition picks a new city to host the battle of the bikes, meaning the backdrop and the challenges change, keeping the event fresh and unpredictable.

And hey, even if you're not competing, just being a part of the atmosphere is electrifying!

Let's break it down:

• Participants: Bike messengers and cycling enthusiasts
• Format: A mix of races and skill challenges
• Locations: Changes annually—every year a new city plays host

Imagine darting through a labyrinth of urban streets, with only your wits and two wheels to earn the glory.

The adrenaline rush is real, and the stories you'll tell?

Epic.

So, whether you're in it to claim the title or cheer from the sidelines, the CMWC is an unmissable spectacle for anyone fueled by the love of cycling and community.

Remember, this isn't about fancy gear or high-tech bikes; it's about the rider, the road, and the sheer joy of the ride.

Might we see you at the next CMWC?

Keep those wheels spinning!