Winter doesn’t have to mean the end of your cycling season. And no, I’m not suggesting heading indoors to your rollers (although there might be some of that involved).
For many places around the U.S., winter days bring cool, sunny weather ideal for completing a big ride. Here are five century rides to add to your calendar this winter.
Even if you have to train in the basement, it will give you a reason to keep training — and that can be worth a lot.
Long Beach New Years Day Ride
Long Beach, CA
Start out the new year right with this 90-mile ride that starts in Long Beach and then cruises down the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s not quite a century, but 90 miles is close enough for day one of a new year!
What better way to start the New Year with coastal views and new friends?! You certainly won’t be lonely on this ride; it’s known to attract over 400 riders.
2020 Date: January 1, 2020
Learn More: http://www.granfondoguide.com/Events/Index/3894/long-beach-new-years-day-ride
San Tan Century
Chandler, AZ
The weather in Phoenix seldom disappoints The average high for this century ride is 70 degrees. Soak up some sun and get in some scenic miles.
Previously known as the Casa Grande Century, the event has been rebranded this year as the San Tan Century. The ride also has a brand new course, weaving past both the Usery Mountains and the San Tan Mountains.
At the finish, enjoy a hot BBQ meal!
2020 Date: January 12, 2020
Learn More: https://pmbc.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=943467&module_id=359096
Tour De Cape
Cape Coral, Florida
Ready for sunshine and palm trees? The Tour De Cape offers plenty of both.
This event is in its 29th year and offers plenty of bang for your buck–and your tummy. Riders receive a continental breakfast, lunch, on-route aid stations with snacks and beverages.
While this is a ride, not a race, there is a “speed zone” challenge which will time your final mile. All persons who opt to be timed will be eligible for a prize drawing at the end of the tour.
2020 Date: January 19, 2020
Learn More: http://www.tourdecape.net/
Tour De Palm Springs
Palm Springs, CA
Go do the Tour De Palm Springs and make a vacation out of it! The area is warm, beautiful, and who doesn’t want to go to the desert in February?!
This century ride is a great first event of the year. It has enough rolling terrain to provide a good workout, but nothing too steep or awful.
The course begins and ends in historic downtown Palm Springs where there’s a vendor expo, entertainment, and food court.
2020 Date: February 7, 2020
Learn More: https://tourdepalmsprings.com/
Solvang Century
Buellton, CA
Looking for a challenge? This “bucket list” century ride is for you.
The route has 5,8000 feet of elevation gain including a climb nicknamed “the wall.” But don’t worry–there’s plenty of fun involved as well. The event includes a bike festival with vendors, food trucks, and beer from Figueroa Brewing Co.
Just don’t wait to register! The ride is limited to 3,000 participants and it fills up.
2020 Date: March 14, 2020
Learn More: https://www.bikescor.com/registration.html
Get Help With Your Training!
Whether you are training for your first century or your fiftieth, here are a couple of articles that will get you motivated and ready for your winter century ride.