February Cycling Events

Each February, northern Pima County transforms into one of the top cycling destinations in the American Southwest.

The Towns of Marana and Oro Valley team up to host two marquee cycling events in the same week, bringing elite professional racers and community riders together in a region celebrated for its smooth roads, dramatic desert scenery, and nearly year-round riding weather.

Both towns are designated Purple Heart Towns and proud partners in building a regional cycling identity that serves athletes, veterans, visitors, and local families alike. In 2024, that partnership earned the Arizona Office of Tourism's Best Regional Partnership Award — recognition that cycling isn't just a recreational amenity here, it's a regional asset.

CreditTucson Bicycle Classic
Marana Time Trial
Project Echelon Fondo

Tucson Bicycle Classic: Marana Time Trial

Each February | Free to spectate

The Tucson Bicycle Classic (TBC) is one of America's premier early-season stage races. The 2026 edition welcomed 610 registered riders from 42 states and six countries, a 6% increase over the previous year, reflecting the event's continued growth and national draw. USA Cycling-sanctioned and offering equal prize purses for male and female athletes, TBC spans four days and four distinct race formats across Marana, Oro Valley, Sahuarita, and Downtown Tucson.

Marana hosts the opening stage: the Marana Time Trial Prologue.

What is a Time Trial?
A time trial is cycling's purest test — riders race solo against the clock, launching one by one down the course. No team tactics, no drafting, no hiding. Just athlete and stopwatch.

The Marana course is a flat, 4.5-mile (7.2 km) point-to-point route along the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, passing two parks and taking in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

Come Cheer — It's Free!
Spectators are warmly welcomed at Gladden Farms Community Park (12205 N Tangerine Farms Rd, Marana, AZ 85653). Bring a chair, grab something from the on-site food trucks, and stay as long as you like. Look for the Discover Marana cheering section!

2027 Dates
The 2027 dates have been set! The 39th annual event will be held February 18-21, 2027.

About the Full Race
Beyond Marana, the TBC includes the Rio Nuevo Criterium (a nighttime criterium through downtown Tucson), the Sahuarita Road Race (on the famed Shootout Route), and the Oro Valley Circuit Race (featuring a challenging hilltop finish with panoramic Catalina Mountain views). It's a full weekend worth building a trip around.

Visit the Tucson Bicycle Classic website for registration, schedules, and full race information.

CreditTucson Bicycle Classic

Project Echelon Gran Fondo

Each February | Open to all abilities
The Project Echelon Gran Fondo is a non-competitive group ride that brings together veterans, community members, and professional cyclists for a shared experience on the roads of Marana and Oro Valley. The event happens rain or shine — and the community shows up either way.

About Project Echelon
Project Echelon is a UCI Continental Professional Cycling Team with a mission that goes beyond competition: the organization educates, equips, and empowers veterans and their communities through physical activity and self-discovery. By removing barriers to healing and fostering relationships between veterans, communities, and professional athletes, Project Echelon promotes long-term health and well-being through endurance sport.

As Purple Heart Towns, both Marana and Oro Valley are proud partners in this mission. Following the 2026 event, Project Echelon described it as "an incredible week in Arizona," highlighting the strength of the local cycling community and the warmth shown by both towns.

About the Ride
The Gran Fondo is not a race. Participants choose between a 37-mile or 50-mile route through the scenic streets of Marana and Oro Valley, riding together in community with veterans and professional athletes. All traffic laws are observed, and riders of all ability levels are welcome.

2027 date coming soon — check back for registration details.

Learn more and support Project Echelon's mission

Why This Event Matters Here
"We are deeply committed to supporting our veterans. This partnership with Project Echelon not only promotes physical wellness and community engagement but also aligns with our vision to honor those who have served." — Stefanie Boe, Tourism & Marketing Manager, Discover Marana

"Oro Valley is all about wellness, connection, and supporting our community, so this event felt like a natural fit." — Crystal Franke, Destination Marketing Manager, Town of Oro Valley

Same Week. Two Great Events.

Each year, the Gran Fondo and the Tucson Bicycle Classic take place in the same week — making it easy to experience both. Come watch the pros race the clock in the Marana Time Trial, then lace up and ride alongside them in the Fondo. It's a week unlike anything else on the Arizona events calendar, and one that draws cyclists and supporters from across the country and around the world.

Plan Your Visit

Marana offers plenty of places to stay, eat, and explore before and after the rides. Keep in mind that February is one of the busiest months in the region — between the cycling events, the world-famous Tucson Gem Shows, and the Tucson Rodeo, accommodations fill up fast. Book early!

Check out our Places to Stay, Food & Drink, and cycling trails to make the most of your trip.