2026 FREEWHEEL CUP MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE SERIES

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MOUNTAIN BIKE RACING RETURNS TO BUCK HILL

THE MOST SERIOUS CASUAL RACE IN THE GALAXY

There are many ways to spend a Thursday evening. You could sit on the couch. You could scroll endlessly through your phone. Or you could race your mountain bike down Buck Hill alongside dozens of riders chasing podiums, bragging rights, and the title of weekly champion.

We think the choice is pretty obvious.

The 2026 Freewheel Cup Mountain Bike Race Series returns to Buck Hill this summer, bringing nine action-packed race nights to the hill beginning June 11th, 2026. Presented by Freewheel Bike and Buck Hill, this beloved summer tradition welcomes riders of all ages and abilities for an evening filled with competition, community, and enough dirt to keep your washing machine employed all season long.

2026 Freewheel Cup Mountain Bike Race Series Schedule:

– June 11th
– June 18th
– June 25th
– July 16th
– July 23rd
– July 30th
– August 6th
– August 13th
– August 20th

You might be a first-time racer, a recreational rider looking for a new challenge, or an experienced competitor searching for another podium finish, whatever you may be – the Freewheel Cup offers a category for you.

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Race Your Way

One of the best parts of the Freewheel Cup is that it welcomes everyone. Riders self-select the category that best matches their experience level and fitness.

Race categories include:

– Beginner Class (1 lap)
– Sport Class (2 laps)
– Advanced Men (4 laps)
– Advanced Women (3 laps)
– Fat Bike Category
– Kids Fun Race

Masters Category

Last summer Freewheel Bike introduced a new two-lap Masters Category for riders ages 25 and older.

Let’s be honest. Your knees may crack a little louder than they used to. You might stretch before riding. You may even own more bike tools than actual bikes. The Masters Category was built for riders who still love competition but appreciate getting home before midnight.

Like all Freewheel Cup categories, riders can choose the division that feels right for them, and Masters racers are eligible for the same podium ceremonies and prizes awarded throughout the evening.

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What to Expect on Race Night

The atmosphere at the Freewheel Cup is one of the reasons riders keep coming back year after year.

You’ll find:

– Friendly competition
– Fast racing
– Local mountain bike community
– Food and beverages
– Podium celebrations
– Plenty of post-race storytelling

The racing may end at the finish line, but the stories are just getting started. Gather with fellow riders after your race to celebrate, swap trail tales, and maybe add a little extra speed to your best lap story. It’s all part of the Freewheel Cup tradition. When you’re ready to race, packet pick-up opens from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM before the evening’s races begin.

Approximate Start Times:

6:30 PM – Sport Class
6:33 PM – Masters Category
6:35 PM – Beginner Class
7:15 PM – Advanced Men
7:18 PM – Advanced Women + Fat Bike
7:20 PM – Kids Fun Race
8:15 PM – Podium Ceremony

Think you’ve earned a spot on the podium? Make sure you stick around after the races conclude, as riders must be present during the awards ceremony to collect their prizes.

Before race day arrives, be sure to register online. There is no onsite registration, and registration closes promptly at 6:15 PM on race day through the It’s Your Race platform. The only thing you can’t do at the Freewheel Cup is wait until you get here to sign up.

Pricing:

– Riders Under 18: $1 ($5 day of race)
– Adults: $15 ($20 day of race)
– Kids Fun Race: FREE

Planning ahead not only saves money, it guarantees your spot on the starting line.

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Beyond the Finish Line

The Freewheel Cup has earned a reputation as one of Minnesota’s favorite weekly mountain bike events because it combines competition with community.

Some riders come for the podium. Some come for the workout. Others come because it’s the most fun they can legally have on a Thursday night. No matter your reason, you’ll find a welcoming environment, great trails, and a group of riders who share the same passion for mountain biking.

See You on the Hill

The countdown to the first race is on.

Gather your riding friends, tune your bike, and prepare for a summer filled with fast laps, friendly rivalries, and unforgettable Thursday nights at Buck Hill. The mountain may technically be a hill, but the fun is absolutely championship caliber.

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