Sportives calendar

Sportives are mass-participation cycling events over a variety of distances, usually on the road and over the course of a single day. They're typically well sign-posted with feeding stations and mechanical support along the route.

Sportives are some of the largest and most popular cycling events in the UK, often hosted by big event organisers and raising thousands of pounds for charities. While some will race a sportive, many people sign up for the experience of riding alongside crowds of fellow cyclists.

These events are generally split into the following categories:

Short sportives

These entry-level rides won't be any longer than about 40 miles in distance.

Medium sportives

Ranging between 40 and 70 miles in distance.

Long sportives

These will be anything above 70 miles, sometimes going up to over 150 miles.

Many organisers will include rides of different distances into the same event. For example, the Big Blue Bike Ride from Prostate Cancer UK includes the 'Classic' at 40 miles and their 'Epic' 65 mile ride at the same time. Which one you pick will depend on how confident you're feeling!

A sportive is a brilliant style of event for road cyclists as they are generally well signposted, feature multiple feed stations and have mechanical support on hand if needed. Many events will also have an event village for the all-important post-race pint with your fellow riders. See you on the start line!

FAQs

How far is a sportive?

Sportives vary in distance and can be classified as short (up to 40 miles), medium (between 40 and 70 miles) or long (over 70 miles).

Are sportives competitive?

Some people will race in a sportive and aim to get on the podium but many people take a more leisurely approach, just enjoying the experience of a mass-participation cycling event and the perk of riding on closed roads!

Are there beginner sportives?

We'd recommend entering a short sportive for your first event - these rides are no more than 40 miles and will give you a great experience.