CYCLE CITY
RIDE THIS WAY Emporia is the epicenter of the gravel grinding world. Every year, thousands of cyclists endure the blistering sun, steep hills and rough trails of the Flint Hills. Whether you are here to race in the epic Dirty Kanza, or to experience the solitary beauty of the landscape for yourself, Emporia has the cycling adventure for you.
THE DIRTY KANZA The first Saturday after Memorial Day, over 2,000 cyclists from across the globe descend on Emporia for the Dirty Kanza (dirtykanza.com). This grueling 200-mile bike race through the beautiful and rugged Flint Hills is one of the top endurance races in the world. Just finishing the Dirty Kanza has become a badge of honor for those in the endurance cycling world. The race winds through the very remote and unforgiving terrains of the Flint Hills. There is a reason it is on the bucket list of cyclists from around the world. Riders can also opt for the shorter DK100, the DK50, the DK25, the high school race or attempt the epic DKXL, a 350-mile race.
FINISH LINE CELEBRATION Experience the excitement at the starting line of the Dirty Kanza and cheer on the riders with thousands of other cycling fans that are lining Commercial Street. Later in the afternoon, join the finish line celebration as the first riders complete their trek. All of downtown becomes a street party that goes late into the night as fans enjoy live music, street food, games, and ringing cowbells to cheer riders across the finish line.
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