As the cold, wet weather starts to fade away and is replaced by brighter starts to the day, us cyclists can start getting excited about drier rides. This also beckons the beginning of race season for professionals and budding enthusiasts alike.
When does the cycling season start?
For the pros, late winter to early spring is the beginning of the cycling season. This tends to fall between January to October. So, we're already into the early stages of 2026's cycling season, but with the peaks usually coming in the summer between June to mid-August, there's still plenty of time to get geared up.
How should you prepare for cycling season?
With so many exciting events on the horizon, we know you're itching to get out and have your tires screeching against the tarmac. But like any other sport and hobby, being properly prepared gives you the best chance to achieve your goals without the added risk of injury or damage to your bike.
The most obvious preparation for the season is making sure your bike is ready for the distances you'll take it. Whether you're planning races or longer trips, ensuring everything is in top shape is crucial to knowing you'll hit your finish line. From the frame, bolts, and tires to the brakes and chain, doing thorough checks on your bike is arguably the most important preparation.
Motivation is another key factor. Cycling isn't just about the physical shape you're in, but the mental, too. Finding the drive to get out on your bike when the weather is still wintery and grey is tough, but even training yourself to get on a ride no matter what builds resilience that can translate to sportives and races.
We've prepared an essential cycling preparation checklist below so you can stay ready for all your rides and races this year.
Cycling Preparation Checklist
Bike Checks
- Identify any cracks and wear within your frame, brakes, and tires.
- Deep clean to remove any dirt, grime, and mud that has accumulated.
- Lubricate your chain and use a chain checker for its condition.
- If your bike is tubeless, replace the old sealant.
- Tighten bolts to manufacturer specifications.
- Check your lights brightness and batteries.
Cyclist Checklist
- Work on your strength off the bike, particularly with a focus on your core, glutes, and legs to prevent injury and increase power. Exercises like squats, deadlifts, and lunges are preferable.
- Staying consistent in your riding is so important to preparation. Regular, shorter rides over infrequent long rides will build your natural resistance over time.
- Keeping your body fuelled is key to maintaining your body. Plenty of carbohydrates before rides and staying hydrated will keep you ready for your distances.
- Setting goals that are realistic keeps you motivated when it comes to your approach to your rides, whether that's attending a certain number of events or hitting a time goal.
- Varied routes stop your practice rides from becoming monotonous or boring.
- Give yourself plenty of rest days and recovery time to help muscle recovery. The importance of rest gets forgotten about by cyclists and it can't be understated how important it is.
Cycling Events to Look Out For
With so many races, events, and key dates throughout the year, it might feel overwhelming to start scheduling in which ones you want to watch or ride for yourself. We've got you covered and have chosen some of the global and local events that we think will make for the most exciting to be part of.
2026 UAE Tour — 16th February, 2026 - 22nd February, 2026
Kicking off the 2026 cycling season in true world-class fashion, the UAE Tour brings riders to the Middle East for a week of racing. As one of the first major stage races on the UCI WorldTour calendar, it signals that the cycling off season is officially behind us.
Expect sprint finishes, crosswind battles, and decisive summit showdowns on Jebel Hafeet. For fans, it's the perfect way to ease back into race viewing after the winter lull. For riders, it's a reminder that when cycling season starts, it starts fast.
Omloop Nieuwsbald — 28th February, 2026
Traditionally marking the start of the Belgian Classics, this race is a fan favourite and a symbolic end to the cycling off season in Europe. Cobbled climbs, unpredictable weather, and relentless attacks define this one-day race. It's gritty, raw, and completely uncompromising, everything we love about early spring racing.
For amateur riders, Omloop is often the moment when training rides shift up a gear. The long winter miles start to turn into sharper efforts, punchy climbs, and race-specific preparation. If you've been wondering when does cycling season start in earnest, this is it. The Classics have arrived.
The Wetherby Wheel Cycle Sportive 2026 — 11th April, 2026
Maybe you've been watching some of the high-level races and it's got you itching to be in the saddle and pushing yourself. For newer cyclists and experienced riders alike, The Wetherby Wheel Cycle Sportive 2026 is the perfect opportunity to get a feel for it.
There are two distances that cyclists can sign up for; 60km and 100km. 60km is the most advisable for first-time riders looking for a new challenge, whereas the 100km is best for novices wanting to push themselves and seasoned cyclists alike.
Bamburgh Castle Cycle Sportive 2026 — 19th April, 2026
What could be more atmospheric than testing your cycling abilities against the backdrop of a castle? The Bamburgh Castle Cycle Sportive 2026 offers distances perfect for riders of all abilities.
If you're brand new to sportives or you're a beginner looking for your first ride, the 50km is the choice for you. For those with a bit more experience, the 100km is the popular choice, and the 100-mile route is for cyclists looking for a bigger challenge.
Tour de France — 4th July, 2026 - 26th July, 2026
The biggest cycling event in the world returns for its 113th edition this summer, and cyclists of all abilities are ready to see how the 3,333km race from Barcelona to Paris shapes up throughout July. For the most experienced riders looking to challenge themselves, this year's Etape du Tour de France covers stage 20 of the Tour.
This gives riders the unique opportunity to cycle on closed roads, connecting Le Bourg-d'Oisans to Alpe d'Huez. It includes some of the Tour's most well-known mountain climbs: Col de la Croix de Fer, Col du Télégraphe, and Col du Galibier. The final climb to Alpe d'Huez, via the rarely used Col de Sarenne, will make you feel like one of the pros.
Cyclone Challenge Ride — 5th July, 2026
For those closer to home, the Cyclone Challenge Ride is one of the UK's most popular sportives and a standout date in the cycling season calendar. Taking place across the North East, it offers an electric atmosphere with thousands of riders taking on the rolling roads together.
With multiple route options available, it caters to a wide range of abilities, from riders stepping up to their first major challenge to experienced cyclists looking to test their endurance mid-season.
Great North Bike Ride — 30th August, 2026
As summer begins to wind down, the Great North Bike Ride offers a brilliant way to round off your cycling season on a high. Known as one of the UK's longest-running charity bike rides, it combines community spirit with a rewarding challenge.
The route takes riders from Seahouses to Tynemouth along the stunning North East coastline. It's less about racing and more about participation, camaraderie, and soaking up the miles with fellow cyclists.
Are you ready to ride this season?
If you're looking at the upcoming cycling season schedule and thinking about getting yourself new gear? Check out our wide range of on-bike clothing and accessories to make sure you're prepared for your rides and smash your goals.
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