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Grab your calendar and a highlighter! 2026 is shaping up to be an EPIC year for cycling in the Carolinas. Whether you’re looking to crush some mountain climbs, cruise the coast, or circle the "Booty Loop" for 24 hours straight, there is a ride for YOU. Best part? Every single mile on this list helps someone in need.
We’re talking major community vibes, cold beers at the finish line, and that sweet, sweet feeling of giving back. Let’s dive into the best charity rides happening across North and South Carolina this year!
THE BIG ONE: Lake Norman Fondo
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026 Location: Davidson, NC
This is OUR favorite day of the year! If you only do one organized ride in 2026, make it the Lake Norman Fondo. Why? Because we pour our hearts into this event right here in our own backyard.
The Lake Norman Fondo isn't just a bike ride... it's a full-blown celebration of cycling. Starting and ending in the beautiful town of Davidson, you’ve got three distances to choose from: 35, 50, or 75 miles. Expect rolling hills, scenic lake views, and the BEST rest stops you’ve ever seen (trust us, the snacks are legendary).
Proceeds go toward local charities that make a real difference in our community. Registration is OPEN, so don’t wait until the last minute... these spots fill up FAST!
Pro Tip: This is the perfect event to show off that new Cervélo Soloist or Specialized Tarmac. If you're looking for ultimate speed on those Davidson rollers, a Cervélo P-Series will have you flying through the flats!
Spring Classics: Kicking Off the Season
RIDE the LOWCOUNTRY Date: April 11, 2026 Location: Awendaw, SC If you want mossy oaks, salt air, and perfectly flat roads, head down to South Carolina in April. RIDE the LOWCOUNTRY is a stunning tour through the Francis Marion National Forest. It’s a great way to wake up the legs after winter!
Cycle North Carolina Coastal Ride Date: April 24–26, 2026 Location: Oriental, NC Three days of coastal cruising! Cycle NC’s Coastal Ride is famously flat and incredibly social. It’s more of a "choose your own adventure" weekend where you can ride as little or as much as you want. Perfect for the whole family!
Summer Heat and Big Challenges
Carolina Hills Classic Date: June 12-15, 2026 Location: Greenville/Clemson/Brevard Area Supporting the Arthritis Foundation, the Carolina Hills Classic is for the riders who love a challenge. You’ll be weaving through the foothills and mountains on some of the most iconic roads in the Southeast.
24 Hours of Booty Date: July 24–25, 2026 Location: Charlotte, NC It’s the biggest block party on two wheels! 24 Hours of Booty takes over the Myers Park "Booty Loop" in Charlotte. You don’t have to ride for 24 hours straight (unless you want to!), but the energy at 3:00 AM is something every cyclist needs to experience at least once. It’s all for the 24 Foundation and the fight against cancer.
Cycle North Carolina Mountain Ride Date: July 31 – August 2, 2026 Location: Brevard, NC Ready to earn those descents? The Cycle NC Mountain Ride is all about the climbing. Based in Brevard, you’ll have access to some of the best road and gravel transitions in the state.
(Wait... did someone say gravel? If you’re heading to Brevard, make sure your bike is dialed. If you're hitting the rougher stuff, the Specialized Stumpjumper is our go-to for anything off-pavement!)
Late Summer & Fall: The Peak Season
Flight of the Dove Date: August 1, 2026 Location: Clinton, SC A beautiful, well-supported ride that benefits Laurens County Hospice. Flight of the Dove offers a variety of distances and some of the friendliest volunteers in the Carolinas!
Tour de Turns Date: August 22, 2026 Location: Charlotte, NC This one is unique! Instead of long country roads, Tour de Turns takes you through the beautiful, shaded, winding neighborhoods of Charlotte. It’s a great community feel and helps fight hunger through Loaves & Fishes.
Bike MS: Historic New Bern Ride Date: September 19–20, 2026 Location: New Bern, NC One of the highest-rated MS rides in the country! Bike MS: New Bern is a massive two-day event. The finish line in downtown New Bern is legendary.
Cycle North Carolina Mountains to Coast Date: October 4–10, 2026 Location: Across North Carolina The big daddy of them all. Mountains to Coast is a week-long trek across the entire state. It’s a bucket-list item for every NC cyclist. You’ll see parts of the state you never knew existed!
Finishing Strong: Late Fall Rides
Gran Fondo Hincapie Date: October 17, 2026 Location: Greenville, SC Want to feel like a pro? Gran Fondo Hincapie is the closest you’ll get. Huge crowds, pro riders, and some of the toughest climbs in the Upstate (looking at you, Skyuka Mountain).
FestiVELO Date: November 4–8, 2026 Location: Walterboro, SC Four days of Lowcountry riding and even better food. FestiVELO is the perfect way to wrap up your season with a focus on fun, food, and friends.
LOWVELO Date: Early November 2026 Location: Charleston, SC Ride to kill cancer! LOWVELO supports research at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Beautiful routes over the Ravenel Bridge make this a truly iconic SC experience.
Don't Forget the Local Scene!
While the big charity events are awesome for the "Big Goal" on your calendar, don't forget the day-to-day community. We highly recommend checking out WeeklyRides.com for the most comprehensive list of local group rides, club events, and training rides in the Charlotte and Lake Norman area. It’s the best way to find your tribe and get those training miles in!
Is Your Bike Ready to Give Back?
Nothing ruins a charity ride faster than a mechanical issue at mile 10. You've spent weeks training... don't let a worn-out chain or a skipping derailleur hold you back!
Whether you're riding the Lake Norman Fondo or trekking across the state on Mountains to Coast, your bike needs to be in top shape. If you'd rather leave it to the pros, schedule a service appointment and bring it into us to do the work. We'll make sure your shifters, tires, and brakes are ready for the long haul!
Essential Gear Checklist:
- Nutrition: Stock up on GU, Skratch, and Honey Stinger so you don't bonk!
- Comfort: A new pair of bib shorts can save your life (well, your seat) on a 75-mile ride.
- Safety: Check your helmet for cracks and make sure your lights are charged.
See You Out There!
We can't wait to see the Spirited Cyclist jerseys representing at all these events in 2026. Make sure to stop by the shop in Davidson or Huntersville to tell us which rides you’ve signed up for. Let's make 2026 the year we ride more miles and raise more money than EVER before!
Ready to upgrade for the big season? Check out our latest Road Bikes, Electric Bikes (perfect for those coastal tours!), and all the Accessories you need to cross that finish line with a smile!
HAPPY RIDING!