Southern California Cycling Events in 2025

Southern California's perfect year-round climate, diverse terrain, and vibrant cycling community make it a premier destination for cyclists of all levels. From challenging mountain climbs to scenic coastal routes, the 2025 calendar is packed with events that showcase the region's stunning landscapes and cycling culture. Whether you're a competitive racer, recreational rider, or someone looking to participate in your first organized ride, SoCal has something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1. Spring Cycling Events (March-May)
2. Summer Cycling Events (June-August)
3. Fall Cycling Events (September-November)
4. Winter Cycling Events (December-February)
5. Family-Friendly and Community Events
6. Training Tips for Southern California Events
7. Essential Gear for SoCal Cycling Events
8. How to Choose the Right Event for Your Level

Spring Cycling Events (March-May)

Solvang Century - March 8, 2025

The Solvang Century is one of Southern California's longest-running and most beloved cycling events. Taking place in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, this iconic ride offers routes of 50, 70, and 100 miles through picturesque wine country landscapes.

Event Highlights:

• Location: Buellton/Solvang, Santa Barbara County
• Routes: 50, 70, and 100-mile options
• Terrain: Rolling hills on country roads through lush countryside
• Support: Fully stocked aid stations and SAG support
• Perks: Finisher medal, quality support, and perfect for entry-level century riders
• Registration Limit: 1,000 riders

The Solvang Century is particularly known for its well-organized support and beautiful route through one of California's most charming regions. The event has been revitalized by Planet Ultra and offers a perfect early-season challenge with reasonable elevation gain.

Register for Solvang Century

GranFondo San Diego - April 6, 2025

Celebrating its 17th anniversary in 2025, the GranFondo San Diego offers riders a spectacular route through San Diego's diverse landscapes. This Italian-inspired event combines challenging riding with a festive atmosphere.

Event Highlights:

• Location: Downtown San Diego
• Experience: Timed King and Queen of the Mountain competitions
• Post-Ride Festivities: Italian lunch, beer garden, live music, and free massages
• Support: Fantastic rest stops and on-course support

This event stands out for its lively post-ride celebration and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of beautiful Downtown San Diego. The route showcases the city's urban landscapes while providing an authentic gran fondo experience.

Learn more about GranFondo San Diego

Tour de Palm Springs - February 8, 2025

While technically a winter event, the Tour de Palm Springs kicks off the Southern California cycling season with routes through the scenic desert landscapes of the Coachella Valley.

Event Highlights:

• Location: Palm Springs
• Routes: Multiple distance options
• Features: E-bike friendly, well-supported with rest stops every 10-15 miles
• Special Recognition: Honors military and first responders

The event offers a perfect escape for cyclists looking to enjoy warm weather riding early in the year, with stunning mountain backdrops and desert vistas.

Summer Cycling Events (June-August)

Giro di San Diego - The Palomar GranFondo - June 7, 2025

This challenging event is a climber's dream, featuring the famous Palomar Mountain climb. The scenic route takes riders through picturesque landscapes in San Diego County.

Event Highlights:

• Location: San Diego County
• Feature: Includes the iconic Palomar Mountain climb
• Support: Well-stocked rest stops and mechanical support
• Post-Ride: Provided lunch and festive beer garden with live music

Perfect for riders who enjoy testing themselves on climbs, this event offers stunning panoramic views as a reward for your efforts.

Tour de Big Bear - August 1-3, 2025

Often described as "Southern California's favorite cycling event," the Tour de Big Bear offers a refreshing mountain escape during the height of summer. Set in the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest, this multi-day festival offers something for every type of cyclist.

Event Highlights:

• Location: Bear Mountain, Big Bear Lake
• Dates: August 1-3, 2025 (full weekend of events)
• Road Routes: 25, 50, 70, and 100-mile options
• Off-Road Options: Dirty Bear (50 miles) and Dirty Cub (25 miles) gravel rides
• NEW for 2025: Mountain bike event (approximately 30 miles)
• Special Events: Evening Glow Ride, Poker Ride, Family Fun Ride
• Festival Atmosphere: Beer tasting at Bear Mountain (11AM-5PM), cycling expo, live entertainment

The Tour de Big Bear stands out for its comprehensive offerings that cater to all cycling disciplines and its festival atmosphere. With the start/finish line and Big Bear Cycling Expo hosted at Bear Mountain, riders can enjoy beautiful mountain scenery and perfect summer weather at higher elevations.

Register for Tour de Big Bear

Fall Cycling Events (September-November)

Bike the Coast - October 18, 2025

This coastal celebration offers various route options along San Diego's scenic coastline, making it perfect for riders of all abilities.

Event Highlights:

• Location: Oceanside, California
• Routes: Multiple distance options
• Terrain: Flat coastal routes with optional inland challenges
• Features: Charity ride component, beach party finish

The event offers breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and typically enjoys perfect fall weather conditions.

Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) Million Dollar Challenge - October 2025

This inspirational multi-day charity ride along the California coast raises funds for athletes with physical challenges.

Event Highlights:

• Route: San Francisco to San Diego (7 days)
• Purpose: Fundraising for adaptive athletes
• Experience: Fully supported premium cycling experience
• Impact: Transformative event that changes lives

While participation requires significant fundraising, this event offers an unparalleled experience and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of challenged athletes.

Winter Cycling Events (December-February)

Resolution Ride - January 2025

Start the year right with this motivational event designed to kickstart your cycling goals for 2025.

Event Highlights:

• Location: Various Southern California locations
• Format: Casual, non-competitive
• Purpose: Begin the year with fitness and community
• Atmosphere: Supportive environment for all levels

These rides provide a perfect opportunity to connect with the cycling community early in the year.

Family-Friendly and Community Events

CicLAvia Events - Various Dates Throughout 2025

CicLAvia represents Southern California's largest open streets initiative, temporarily closing streets to car traffic and opening them for people to walk, bike, and explore the city in a new way.

Event Highlights:

• Various Routes: Different neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles County
• Atmosphere: Car-free streets for cyclists, pedestrians, and all non-motorized transportation
• Accessibility: Perfect for families, casual riders, and anyone looking to experience the city differently
• Community Focus: Local businesses, food, culture, and activities along the routes

CicLAvia has been transforming streets throughout LA County since 2010, with the 2025 calendar featuring multiple events in different neighborhoods. These events offer a unique way to experience the diverse communities of Los Angeles in a safe, car-free environment.

View CicLAvia's 2025 Schedule

Training Tips for Southern California Events

Preparing for Mountain Climbs

Many Southern California events feature significant climbing. Here are some tips to prepare:

1. Incorporate Hill Repeats: Find a local climb and practice repeated efforts to build climbing strength.
2. Work on Pacing: Learn to maintain a sustainable effort on long climbs.
3. Train for Heat: Many climbs in SoCal can be hot, especially in summer events. Acclimate by training during warmer parts of the day.
4. Gearing Matters: Ensure your bike has appropriate gearing for steep ascents.

Coastal Ride Preparation

For events along the coast:

1. Train in Windy Conditions: Coastal routes often feature headwinds and crosswinds.
2. Practice Group Riding: Many coastal events involve riding in packs where drafting is beneficial.
3. Build Endurance: Flat coastal routes often require sustained power output rather than varied efforts.

Essential Gear for SoCal Cycling Events

What to Bring to Every Event

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing
• Layered Clothing: Southern California mornings can be cool, even when afternoons are warm
• Hydration System: Multiple bottles or hydration pack depending on event distance and support
• Nutrition: Energy bars, gels, and electrolyte supplements
• Basic Repair Kit: Spare tube, mini-pump, multi-tool, and tire levers

Seasonal Considerations

• Spring: Rain gear and arm/leg warmers for variable conditions
• Summer: Extra hydration, cooling vest for extreme heat events
• Fall: Light jacket or vest for changing conditions
• Winter: Thermal layers, full-finger gloves, shoe covers

How to Choose the Right Event for Your Level

For Beginners

• Look for events with shorter distance options (25-40 miles)
• Focus on events labeled as "recreational" or "family-friendly"
• Consider supported events with frequent rest stops
• CicLAvia events are perfect entry points

For Intermediate Riders

• Century rides with moderate elevation gain (like Solvang Century)
• Metric century options (62 miles) at larger events
• Gran fondos with less challenging routes

For Advanced Cyclists

• Challenging gran fondos with significant elevation (Giro di San Diego)
• Multi-day events (CAF Million Dollar Challenge)
• Competitive timed segments or race components
• The full 100-mile routes at major events

Conclusion

Southern California's 2025 cycling calendar offers an incredible variety of events for riders of all abilities. From the historic Solvang Century in the spring to the mountain adventures of Tour de Big Bear in the summer, there's always a new cycling challenge waiting for you.

At MoVcan, we're passionate about supporting cyclists in all their adventures. Whether you're looking for the perfect e-bike for these events or need accessories to enhance your riding experience, we're here to help you make the most of Southern California's vibrant cycling scene.

Want to learn more about specific events or get advice on which ones might suit your riding style? Contact our team for personalized recommendations.

For more information about cycling in Southern California, check out SoCalCycling.com's comprehensive event calendar or read about the history of cycling events in California on Wikipedia.

Happy riding!