Winston Salem Cycling Classic & Gears and Guitars
USA Cycling Criterium National Series
May 23, 2025
Winston-Salem, NC
Road
About
Biggest Party on Two Wheels
Experience the Winston Salem Cycling Classic & Gears and Guitars on May 23-24, 2025—a spectacular way to kick off summer! Join thousands of cyclists and spectators in downtown Winston-Salem’s Innovation Quarter for a festival that fuses world-class amateur and pro cycling events with electrifying live music from national and local acts. This unique weekend features fast-paced drag sprints, route options for all riding styles, and a Saturday packed with criterium racing and unforgettable concerts. Whether you’re a competitive racer, casual rider, or music fan, this is the city’s signature celebration on two wheels!
COURSE DETAILS
• Friday features the 4th Street Drag Sprints on a flat, urban road strip in downtown Winston-Salem.
• Saturday offers community Fondo rides with both road and gravel/greenway options (distances vary) and technical downtown criterium racing at Bailey Park.
Race HIGHLIGHTS
- Free live concerts by major bands (e.g., Switchfoot) and local artists
- Exciting Friday night drag sprints with on-street dining and drinks
- Community fondo rides for all cycling levels
- Pro and amateur criterium races on Saturday
- Family-friendly festival atmosphere
RIDEΒ TYPES
Race overview
Fondo distances and criterium lap lengths vary; full details released closer to event.
Winston-Salem elevation ~970 ft (295 m); elevation gain varies by route.
Urban downtown streets (road sprints, criterium), plus road & gravel/greenway options for fondos.