The Gran Fondo Hincapie is more than just a “big ride.” It’s a multi-day cycling celebration with scenic rides, live music, and a family festival with free fun, food, and drinks. Join thousands of cycling pros, celebrities, weekend warriors, and first-time riders in the excitement of the Gran Fondo Hincapie hosted by George and the family. Choose between a shorter Piccolo, a mid-length Medio, or a longer Gran ride on one of the scenic routes mapped and tested by George Hincapie. The event is a chance to connect with other cycling enthusiasts and indulge your passion for cycling, no matter your skill level. Questions? Check out our FAQs.
Events
Gran FondoHincapie
Gran Fondo /
The Ultimate Cycling Experience
Gran Fondo Hincapie Events
Choose from six Gran Fondo Hincapie rides in 2024. Each event has three course options, so there’s a ride for everyone.
SEP
07
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Bentonville
Arkansas
JUN
22
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Bangor
Maine
MAY
4
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Chattanooga
Tennessee
OCT
19
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Greenville
South Carolina
SEP
07
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Junior Challenge Bentonville
Arkansas
SEP
07
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Bentonville Saturday
Arkansas
SEP
08
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Bentonville Sunday
Arkansas
OCT
19
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Junior Challenge Greenville
South Carolina
JUN
1
2024
Hincapie Gran Fondo
Lehigh Valley
Pennsylvania
About /
A Little Bit About Gran Fondo
Gran Fondo Hincapie is the ultimate cycling experience. Created for riders of all levels, our Gran Fondo Hincapie events provide a scenic tour of the host cities, show you the best views, forge new friendships, and celebrate as you cross the finish line. Whichever race you choose, this will be a ride you never want to forget.
See all EventsRockin’ Rest Stops
Stretch. Refuel. And listen to some tunes.
Family Festival
Bouncy houses, cotton candy, food and beer—all free for you and your family
Celebrities and Pros
Past participants include Patric Dempsey, Cadel Evans, Mark Cavendish and Sir Bradley Wiggins
Podium Awards
All Gran Fondo Hincapie have a podium ceremony following the ride including overall to age group winners.
Results on site
Riders can view their results as they cross the finish line at our results tent!
Food & Brew
Enjoy the ride. Food and drinks are on us.
Gran Fondo FAQs
Want to know more about how a Gran Fondo Hincapie works? Here are some general answers that may help, but if you're looking for more specific answers check out our FAQ section.
What is a Gran Fondo? add
A Gran Fondo is Italian for a “big ride” that includes a timed race, scenic routes, sustained climbs, and days of festivities for cycling pros and newbies. Thousands of cyclists start the race en masse and enjoy hours of cycling across a beautiful landscape.
Where was the first Gran Fondo? add
Gran Fondos began in the 1970s in Cesenatico, Italy. They were such a hit that they spread across Europe and to the USA, where over 200 Gran Fondos happen each year.
How long is a Gran Fondo? add
There’s no distance requirement. In Italy, the birthplace of the Gran Fondo, the events are 120 km or about 75 miles long. Most Fondos give you the option of several distances. Gran Fondo Hincapie always offers three course options at every event that are approximately 15, 50, and 80-mile rides. The 15-miler is a family-friendly ride, and the longer rides are for cyclists who’ve trained for the event.
Are Gran Fondos competitive? add
A Gran Fondo is not a competition, at least not between other cyclists. You’ll be timed, but mostly to prove to yourself that your hard work has paid off. The event has an exciting, energetic, and inclusive atmosphere where cyclists of all skill levels are welcome. Of course, if you want to compete for a certain time or with your group of friends, be our guest! But competition is not the emphasis of the event.
What should you bring to a Gran Fondo? add
Other than your bike, cycling kit, and shoes, you should bring something to carry water in as you ride. And if time is important to you, bring a stash of energy bars or gels to limit your refuel stops. Carrying your phone, keys, and ID is also a good idea. Lastly, pack bike maintenance tools (i.e., tire levers, spare tubes, inflator, etc.) in case of unexpected emergencies.
What should you wear to a Gran Fondo? add
Wear what the weather calls for, and be sure to check the forecast the day before the event in case you need to make a few tweaks to your kit. You’ll be in the saddle for a long time, so wear shorts with a good chamois and sun protection. Your kit should include moisture-wicking fabrics because you’re guaranteed to work up a sweat. To make sure you’re prepared for anything, wear a jersey with pockets for snacks or extra layers. If rain is possible, pack a light shell to slip on if needed.
If your cycling kit needs an update, check out our men’s or women’s cycling apparel.