Find Your Next Bike Race in California
Find local USA Cycling sanctioned events, learn how to get started, and get ready for race day.
Racing in California brings together riders of all ages and experience levels across road, mountain bike, cyclocross, gravel, track, junior, and collegiate events. Use this page to explore upcoming races, learn what to expect on race day, and stay connected to the local racing scene.
How to Get Started
Getting started does not have to be complicated. Find an event, understand what you need, and get ready to race.
Find an event that fits how you like to ride. California offers opportunities across road, mountain bike, cyclocross, gravel, track, clinics, and other rides throughout the year.
A USA Cycling race license is required for sanctioned competitive events. Your license connects you to thousands of events, results and rankings, category upgrades, and year-round racing opportunities. You can purchase your race license here.
Race categories help group riders by experience, age, ability, or discipline. New riders will start in an entry level category, then move up through race experience and upgrade points. Events will list the categories offered for that race. Learn more about category upgrades.
Once you find an event, review the event details, course, categories, and schedule, and make sure you know what to bring on race day. A coach can also help you prepare and be ready for race day.
Before you head to the event, make sure you have your bike, helmet, race clothing, cycling shoes, water bottles, nutrition and fluids, tools or spare tubes, towel, a change of clothes, and any other important items. Bring your USA Cycling license information, registration confirmation, and a photo ID if needed for check in.
It is also a good idea to arrive early, check the schedule, pick up your number, and give yourself time to warm up before your race.
After your event, check results, learn from the experience, and find your next race. Racing gets easier to understand once you have been through the process.
State, Regional, and National Championships in California
DATE | EVENT | LOCATION | DISCIPLINE | REGISTRATION |
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April 18 | San Luis Rey Road Race | Bonsall, CA | Road |
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May 31 | SCNCA "Race for the Bear" JR's & Masters Criterium Championships p/b Methods to Winning | Long Beach, CA | Criterium | |
June 6 | Christian Cycling Dash for Cash & NCNCA Junior Criterium Championships | Pleasanton, CA | Criterium |
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June 13 | NCNCA Junior District Track Championship | San Jose, CA | Track |
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June 21 | 2026 NorCal Crusher Cup #1 - Lake Sonoma | Cloverdale, CA | Cross-Country MTB | |
July 11 | Pescadero Coastal Classic | Pescadero, CA | Road | |
July 12 | Manhattan Beach Grand Prix --California State Championship | Manhattan Beach, CA | Criterium | |
August 1 | Costa Mesa Grand Prix Elite District Championships | Costa Mesa, CA | Criterium | |
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Racing Disciplines
Cycling offers many ways to race, including road, mountain bike, cyclocross, gravel, track, and para-cycling events. Learn more about each discipline.
Racing Resources in California
Northern California Local Association
Northern California Nevada Cycling Association (NCNCA)
The Northern California Nevada Cycling Association (NCNCA) serves and supports the cycling community across the northern parts of California and Nevada.
Southern California Local Association
Southern California Nevada Cycling Association (SCNCA)
The Southern California Nevada Cycling Association (SCNCA) serves and supports the cycling community across the southern parts of California and Nevada.
Collegiate Racing
Western Collegiate Cycling Conference (WCCC)
Collegiate riders in California compete through the Western Collegiate Cycling Conference (WCCC) with other schools located in Hawaii, and the western half of Nevada.
Category Upgrades
Advancing Through the Ranks
Category upgrades are the foundation of USA Cycling’s competitive pathway, providing athletes of all ages and skill-levels a nationwide structure for continual advancement.