Top Cycling Events in Southern California 2025

Southern California's Cycling Paradise

With its perfect blend of stunning coastlines, challenging mountain ascents, and near-perfect year-round weather, Southern California has rightfully earned its reputation as a cycling paradise. The 2025 calendar brings an impressive lineup of events catering to every type of rider—from competitive racers seeking timed segments to recreational cyclists looking to experience the camaraderie and joy of group rides.

Whether you're searching for your first organized ride or planning your next cycling challenge, Southern California offers an extraordinary variety of events throughout the year. From the coastal routes of San Diego to the mountain climbs of Big Bear and everything in between, there's something for every rider's preference, ability level, and ambition.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most anticipated cycling events in Southern California for 2025, providing key details on routes, registration information, and what makes each ride special. Let's dive into the exciting world of SoCal cycling events!

Gran Fondos and Century Rides

Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego

Date: April 6, 2025
Location: Downtown San Diego (Start/Finish at Ruocco Park)
Distances: 100, 60, and 35 miles

The 17th annual Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego brings together the vibrant energy of Southern California with the rich tradition of Italian cycling culture against the backdrop of San Diego's picturesque waterfront. This event combines challenging routes with outstanding support and culminates in a massive celebration.

What makes this event special is the attention to detail and rider experience. The event features:

• Timed King and Queen of the Mountain (KOM/QOM) competition on the challenging Honey Springs climb (100-mile route)
• Fully supported aid stations with Italian-inspired refreshments
• Post-ride Italian feast, beer garden, and live music
• Finisher medals for all participants

This is consistently rated as one of the top gran fondos in the United States and attracts riders from across the country and internationally. The main 100-mile route takes riders through the beautiful East County region with over 5,000 feet of climbing, while the 60 and 35-mile options provide accessible alternatives for riders of all abilities.

Registration: Registration is currently open with early-bird pricing available until February 1, 2025. Visit SDGranFondo.com for more information.

Giro di San Diego GranFondo

Date: June 7, 2025
Location: Escondido (Start/Finish at Ryan Park)
Distances: Multiple routes available

Known for being one of Southern California's most challenging rides, the Giro di San Diego GranFondo returns in 2025 with multiple route options tailored to different rider abilities. This event is particularly notable for featuring some of the region's most iconic climbs, including the formidable Mount Palomar.

Highlights include:

• Multiple route options to accommodate different fitness levels
• Some of the most scenic roads in North County San Diego
• Professional ride support with fully stocked aid stations
• Impressive finisher medals and post-ride festivities

The event supports the Life Sports Foundation, which helps provide sports opportunities for challenged athletes and foster youth in San Diego County.

Registration: Early registration is recommended as this event typically sells out. Visit GiroDiSanDiego.com for complete details and to secure your spot.

Tour de Big Bear

Date: August 2, 2025 (Full weekend of events August 1-3)
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA (Start/Finish at Bear Mountain)
Distances: 25, 50, 70, and 100 miles (road); 25 and 50 miles (gravel); Mountain bike course

The Tour de Big Bear has established itself as Southern California's premier mountain cycling event, offering participants breathtaking scenery along with the challenge of high-altitude riding. The 2025 edition expands to a full weekend of cycling activities for the entire family.

The event features:

• Multiple road routes ranging from 25 to 100 miles
• The "Dirty Bear" and "Dirty Cub" gravel rides (50 and 25 miles)
• New mountain bike event
• Family-friendly activities throughout the weekend
• Evening events including a Poker Ride and Glow Ride

Situated in the stunning San Bernardino National Forest at an altitude of 6,752 feet, this event provides ideal cool temperatures for summer riding—a welcome relief from the typical August heat in lower elevations. The challenging routes offer spectacular views and take riders through high mountain areas including Onyx Summit.

Registration: Registration opens January 15, 2025. A special "Golden Bear Pass" VIP option is available for those wanting premium benefits. Visit TourDeBigBear.com for details.

Charity and Community Rides

Bike MS: Los Angeles Coastal Challenge

Date: May 17-18, 2025
Location: Ventura, CA
Distances: 30, 60, and 90 miles (Saturday); multiple options Sunday

This two-day cycling event offers various route options along the Southern California coastline and through the beautiful countryside. The 2025 edition features new routes starting and ending at San Buenaventura State Beach park in Ventura.

What sets this ride apart is its mission—raising funds for multiple sclerosis research and support services through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Riders can choose from several distance options:

• Saturday: 30, 60, or 90 miles
• Sunday: Various options including a coastal route and a challenging 40-mile loop around Lake Casitas

The event features excellent support, overnight accommodations for two-day riders, and a powerful sense of community united for a cause.

Registration: Registration includes a fundraising minimum, which helps support the National MS Society. Visit nationalmssociety.org for registration details.

CicLAvia Events

Various dates throughout 2025
Locations: Various neighborhoods in Los Angeles
Distance: Varies by event

While not a traditional cycling event, CicLAvia transforms Los Angeles streets into temporary car-free spaces where people can bike, walk, or skate. These community-building events showcase different neighborhoods throughout the year.

Confirmed CicLAvia events for 2025 include:

• April 6, 2025: CicLAvia—Koreatown meets Hollywood
• June 22, 2025: CicLAvia—Historic South Central meets Watts

These family-friendly events are free to attend and perfect for casual riders who want to experience Los Angeles from a completely different perspective. Each route is typically 6-8 miles and features activity hubs along the way.

Registration: No registration required—simply show up with your bike! Visit CicLAvia.org for route maps and additional information.

Mountain and Gravel Events

Big Bear Grizzly 100 & MTB Gran Fondo

Date: July 26, 2025
Location: Big Bear, CA
Distances: Multiple options

This event combines a National Ultra Endurance Race series event with a friendly mountain bike ride experience suitable for various skill levels. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Big Bear Lake, participants can choose from several course options through some of Southern California's best mountain bike terrain.

Features include:

• Multiple course options for different ability levels
• Professional course marking and trail support
• Aid stations and rider support throughout the course
• Part of the broader Big Bear Cycling week

This event is organized by the Big Bear Valley Race Association and showcases the extensive trail network that has made Big Bear a premier mountain biking destination in Southern California.

Registration: Registration opens March 1, 2025. Visit BigBear.com/events for more information.

The Dirty Bear and Dirty Cub Gravel Rides

Date: August 2, 2025 (Part of Tour de Big Bear weekend)
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
Distances: 25 miles (Cub) and 50 miles (Bear)

For gravel enthusiasts, these challenging off-road rides take cyclists along beautiful bike trails around Big Bear Lake. Part of the Tour de Big Bear weekend, these gravel-specific events have grown in popularity as the gravel cycling discipline continues to expand.

These routes feature:

• Mixture of fire roads and maintained gravel paths
• Stunning views of Big Bear Lake and surrounding mountains
• Support stations with food and hydration
• Finisher medals and event swag

Note that unlike the road events, e-bikes are not permitted on the gravel courses.

Registration: Registration opens January 15, 2025, as part of the Tour de Big Bear event. Visit TourDeBigBear.com for details.

Road Racing and Time Trials

L.A. Tourist Race

Dates: April 5 and June 7, 2025
Location: Starts at Let's Ride Cyclery, Burbank, CA
Format: Self-supported navigation race

This unique event is a self-supported, self-navigated race that sends participants searching for GPS locations throughout the Los Angeles area. Unlike traditional races with marked courses, riders must use their navigation skills to find checkpoints while covering significant distance.

The race features:

• Pre-dawn start time
• Challenging navigation elements
• Mix of urban and rural terrain
• Strong emphasis on self-sufficiency

This event appeals to adventurous cyclists looking for something beyond the traditional organized ride format. The course changes for each edition, ensuring a fresh challenge even for returning participants.

Registration: Visit LetsRideCyclery.com for registration information.

Tips for Choosing the Right Southern California Cycling Event

With so many outstanding events to choose from in 2025, selecting the right one for your abilities and preferences can be challenging. Consider these factors when making your decision:

1. Assess Your Fitness Level Honestly

Most events offer multiple distance options, but be realistic about what you can comfortably complete. Consider not just the distance but also the elevation gain:

• Beginner/Recreational: Look for events with shorter options (25-35 miles) and moderate elevation gain. The 35-mile option at the Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego or the 25-mile route at Tour de Big Bear are excellent starting points.
• Intermediate: If you regularly ride 40+ miles, consider middle-distance options (50-70 miles) like the 60-mile route at GranFondo San Diego or the 50-mile Tour de Big Bear.
• Advanced: For experienced cyclists, the full 100-mile routes with significant climbing (such as Tour de Big Bear or Giro di San Diego) will provide a worthy challenge.

2. Consider the Terrain and Conditions

Southern California offers diverse riding conditions:

• Coastal routes typically feature milder temperatures and more moderate elevation profiles, ideal for early-season events.
• Inland and mountain events often include more challenging climbs but can provide relief from summer heat at higher elevations.
• Urban events like CicLAvia offer unique cultural experiences with minimal physical demands.

3. Evaluate the Support Level

Events vary significantly in terms of rider support:

• Fully supported events like the Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego feature numerous aid stations, mechanical support, and SAG vehicles.
• Minimally supported or self-supported events like the L.A. Tourist Race require greater self-sufficiency and preparation.

Choose an event with support appropriate for your experience and comfort level.

4. Don't Forget the Social Aspect

Many riders find the post-event festivities as rewarding as the ride itself:

• The Italian feast and beer garden at the Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego
• The community atmosphere of CicLAvia events
• The full weekend of activities at Tour de Big Bear

Consider what type of experience you want beyond just the cycling portion.

Training for Success

Once you've chosen your event, proper preparation will ensure you have the best possible experience. Here are some training tips specifically tailored for Southern California's unique cycling challenges:

Climate Considerations

Southern California's climate varies significantly by region and season:

• For coastal events: Practice riding in potentially foggy morning conditions, which often clear to sunny skies later in the day.
• For inland events: Heat acclimation is crucial, especially for late spring and summer rides. Train during warmer parts of the day as the event approaches.
• For mountain events: If possible, include some higher-elevation rides in your training to acclimate to the reduced oxygen levels. At minimum, prepare for the increased climbing demands.

Terrain-Specific Training

Match your training to the demands of your chosen event:

• For hilly events like Tour de Big Bear: Incorporate regular hill repeats and gradually increase the total elevation gain in your training rides.
• For flatter, speed-focused events: Work on sustained efforts at threshold power and practice riding efficiently in groups.
• For gravel events: Practice on similar surfaces to develop bike handling skills specific to loose terrain.

Local Training Routes

Fortunately, Southern California offers abundant training opportunities that can simulate event conditions:

• San Diego County: Practice on Honey Springs Road to prepare for the Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego's KOM segment.
• Los Angeles Area: The climbs in the Santa Monica Mountains provide excellent training for hilly events.
• Inland Empire: The roads around Redlands and San Bernardino offer challenging terrain similar to the Tour de Big Bear routes.

For more detailed training suggestions, visit the Tamobyke Training Guide section of our website.

Essential Gear for Southern California Events

While your standard cycling kit will work for most events, there are some region-specific considerations for Southern California rides:

Sun Protection

Southern California's abundant sunshine demands serious sun protection strategies:

• Sunscreen: Apply waterproof, sweat-resistant sunscreen (minimum SPF 30) and reapply during longer events.
• Appropriate Eyewear: Quality cycling sunglasses with UV protection are essential.
• Arm Sleeves: Consider UV-protective arm sleeves, which can provide sun protection while being easily removable if temperatures rise.

Temperature Management

The region's microclimate variations can create challenging conditions:

• Layering: Even on warm days, starting early (as many events do) can mean chilly temperatures. Bring easily removable layers.
• For mountain events: Always pack a lightweight wind jacket, as temperatures at higher elevations can change rapidly.
• Hydration Systems: Ensure you have sufficient water capacity for the varying conditions. For hotter inland routes, consider both bottles and a hydration pack.

Mechanical Preparedness

While most major events provide mechanical support, being self-sufficient is always wise:

• Appropriate Tires: Choose puncture-resistant tires suited to the event terrain. For gravel events, tubeless setups are increasingly popular.
• Basic Tool Kit: Carry essentials including spare tubes, tire levers, a multi-tool, and mini-pump or CO2 inflator.
• Pre-Event Tune-Up: Have your bike professionally serviced before major events, particularly if you'll be tackling challenging terrain.

For all your equipment needs, check out our Tamobyke Accessories Collection, designed specifically for the demands of Southern California riding.

Resources for Southern California Cyclists

To stay informed about events and cycling conditions in Southern California, these resources are invaluable:

Websites and Calendars

• BikeRide.com maintains a comprehensive calendar of cycling events throughout California.
• GranFondoGuide.com offers detailed information about gran fondos throughout the region.
• SoCalCycling.com provides up-to-date news on the Southern California cycling scene.

Local Cycling Organizations

• San Diego Bicycle Coalition advocates for cyclists and provides resources for San Diego County.
• Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition offers similar support for L.A. County cyclists.
• Inland Empire Biking Alliance serves riders in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Weather and Trail Conditions

• Mountain Bike Project provides trail status updates for off-road routes.
• Caltrans QuickMap offers real-time road conditions, especially useful for mountain routes.
• National Weather Service provides detailed forecasts for planning rides in variable conditions.

Conclusion: Your Cycling Adventure Awaits

Southern California's 2025 cycling calendar offers an incredible variety of events for riders of all abilities and interests. From the coastal routes of San Diego to the mountain climbs of Big Bear, there's truly something for everyone.

Whether you're challenging yourself on a century ride, supporting a charitable cause, exploring car-free streets with family, or tackling rugged mountain terrain, these events provide unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to connect with the broader cycling community.

At Tamobyke, we're passionate about helping cyclists get the most out of Southern California's world-class riding opportunities. Our bikes are designed with these diverse terrains and conditions in mind, providing the perfect platform for whatever cycling adventure you choose to undertake in 2025.

Which event are you most excited about? Have you participated in any of these rides in previous years? We'd love to hear about your experiences and plans in the comments below!