GRAN FONDO

A road race for everyone who wants to take part

Gran Fondo – which translates as Big Race – is a long-distance mass participation event celebrating competitive cycling for everyone, not just the professionals.

The top 25% of riders from 30 qualifying events held around the world have been invited to compete in Scotland for the Championships.

Yes, Gran Fondo is about inclusion and community, but make no mistake: between the start and finish line, it’s seriously competitive. The stakes will be high, the battles will be intense, and the times will be quick.

In both Time Trials and Road Races, riders of varying ages and abilities take on a beautiful but challenging course. The seriously fast cyclists will be competing for medals, while everyone else is hoping to put in their personal best performance

Traditionally, a huge feast takes place at the finish line at these events. With Scottish hospitality being what it is, there’ll no doubt be a big party after the big race.

Did you know?

Impress

Size Matters

Gran Fondos are usually raced on courses between 120–200km, with climbs of 2000–4000m. Most events also feature a shorter and less physically demanding course, known as the Medio Fondo.

Viva It

The first Gran Fondo took place in Italy in 1970. With the introduction of chip time technology in the ’90s, Gran Fondos boomed in popularity around the world.

The Bike

From aero bikes to