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Gran Fondo Isle Of Man Powered By Altenar To Reboot In 2026 As Epic Off Road Challenge

After a decade of organising successful large-scale cycling events, Gran Fondo (Isle of Man) Ltd will switch focus on the rapidly growing gravel cycling scene, delivering a mass-participation gravel and XC Mountain Bike event on the Isle of Man in July 2026

Gran Fondo Isle Of Man Powered By Altenar To Reboot In 2026 As Epic Off Road Challenge

Taking inspiration from the End 2 End Mountain Bike Race which took place on the Island for 25 years up until 2019, the 2026 edition of Gran Fondo Isle of Man powered by Altenar will see riders take on an epic 90km route; starting in the north of the Island and working it’s way to the finish in the Island’s ancient capital, Castletown, in the south.

The carefully constructed route will utilise a range of gravel roads, single track, bridle-paths, tarmac and private land, to create an assault on the senses for those who take on the challenge.

Featuring some of the iconic climbs so prominent in the End 2 End Mountain Bike Race, the route will twist and turn it’s way across the Island, utilising roads, tracks and private land never before raced over, creating something that is part cycle race and part adventure!

The main Gran Fondo will feature separate classes for Gravel Bikes and XC MTB bikes respectively, whilst a 40km Medio Fondo will take place at the same time, for any type of bike (including e-bikes), ran under sportive conditions.

In addition to Sunday’s main events, the weekend will also see the return of the Piccolo Fondo; now reimagined as a guided social ride on Saturday 25th of July, along with the ever popular Minisculo Fondo for younger riders, now set to take place on the morning of Sunday 26th of July in the new location of Castletown.

True to the values of Gran Fondo Isle of Man, the events schedule will be inclusive and accessible, welcoming riders of all ages and abilities, with events suited to gravel bikes, mountain bikes, cyclo-cross bikes, e-bikes and in the case of the Piccolo Fondo, traditional road bikes.

Paul Phillips, Director, Gran Fondo (Isle of Man) Ltd, said, “When we decided to conclude Gran Fondo Isle of Man, we wanted to keep the team together and deliver another top-tier event for the Island. Gravel cycling is experiencing rapid growth, and it felt like the ideal time to apply our expertise to a new project.”

“We’re excited about the plans we have in the works and can’t wait to share them with the riders who have supported us over the years – and hopefully attract new faces who prefer off-road cycling.”

“We’re also delighted to partner with Castletown, and look forward to complementing its already impressive event portfolio. The backdrop of Castle Rushen for the finish will make for an unforgettable experience.”

Gran Fondo Isle of Man powered by Altenar will take place on the 26th of July 2026.

Gran Fondo

Date: 26th July 2026
Distance / Duration: 90km
Bike Eligibility: Gravel and XC MTB (No E-Bikes)
Format: Competitive race (separate classes for Gravel and XC MTB)
Minimum Age: 16 on event date

Medio Fondo

Date: 26th July 2026
Distance / Duration: 40km
Bike Eligibility: Gravel and XC MTB (including E-Bikes)
Format: Non competitive sportive
Minimum Age: 14 on event date

Piccolo Fondo

Date: 25th July 2026
Distance / Duration: 32km
Bike Eligibility: All
Format: No drop social ride - fast, medium, slow groups
Minimum Age: 12 on event date

Minisculo Fondo

Date: 26th July 2026
Distance / Duration: 1 hour
Bike Eligibility: All
Format: Closed roads family and friends ride
Minimum Age: None