The Philadelphia Cycling Classic Returns in 2026
A Legendary Race Climbs Back Up the Manayunk Wall
After a 10-year hiatus, one of Philadelphia’s most iconic sporting traditions is returning.
The Philadelphia Cycling Classic will ride again on August 30, 2026, bringing professional men’s and women’s races back to the city’s streets — including the famous and brutal climb up the Manayunk Wall.
For cycling fans and first-time visitors alike, this is more than a race. It’s a full-city experience.
A Race with History
First launched in 1985, the Philadelphia Cycling Classic became one of the most recognized one-day cycling events in the United States. It last ran in 2016, and for many residents, its absence left a noticeable gap in the city’s summer sports calendar.
Now in 2026, the race returns as part of Philadelphia’s broader America 250 celebrations — marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Organizers, including former Mayor Michael Nutter and other civic leaders, have helped revive the event and bring it back to the streets where it built its legacy.
The Course: 14.4 Miles of Strategy and Endurance
At the heart of the race is a 14.4-mile circuit that winds through some of Philadelphia’s most scenic and historic areas.
The route includes:
🏛 The Art Museum area
🌳 Lemon Hill
🏙 Center City views
🚴 The legendary Manayunk climb
Riders complete multiple laps of the circuit, building fatigue with each pass — setting the stage for the race’s defining moment.
The Manayunk Wall: A 17% Grade Challenge
The most talked-about feature of the race is the infamous Manayunk Wall — a steep 17% grade climb located on Levering Street, turning onto Lyceum Avenue in the Manayunk neighborhood.
For amateur cyclists, it’s often described as a “nightmare.”
For professionals, it’s a strategic battleground.
Crowds traditionally pack the narrow street, creating a high-energy, festival-like atmosphere as riders grind up the incline. The sound of cheering echoes between row homes, and the climb often determines who stays in contention and who falls behind.
It’s one of the most recognizable climbs in American cycling.
Race Distances
The 2026 edition will feature both men’s and women’s professional races:
• Men’s Race: Approximately 120 miles
• Women’s Race: Approximately 62 miles
Both events use the same demanding circuit, ensuring that the Wall plays a decisive role in each competition.
What Spectators Can Expect
The Philadelphia Cycling Classic has always been known for its packed crowds and neighborhood celebration atmosphere.
On race day, visitors can expect:
🎶 Music and outdoor gatherings
🍻 Local restaurants and bars filled with fans
🚴 Prime viewing spots along the circuit
📸 Scenic city backdrops
The Manayunk neighborhood, in particular, transforms into one of the most energetic viewing areas, with spectators lining the streets several rows deep.
Why 2026 Is Special
The 2026 race holds added significance as part of the city’s America 250 commemorations. Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence, will host numerous events throughout the year — and the return of this cycling tradition adds a major international sporting component to the celebration.
It’s both a nod to history and a renewed chapter for competitive cycling in the city.
Planning to Attend
If you’re visiting Philadelphia for the race:
✔ Arrive early to secure viewing spots near the Manayunk Wall
✔ Use public transportation when possible
✔ Wear comfortable shoes — much of the best viewing is standing room
✔ Explore the surrounding neighborhoods between laps
Late August weather in Philadelphia is typically warm, so hydration and sun protection are recommended.
The return of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic on August 30, 2026, marks the revival of a beloved sporting tradition. With its 14.4-mile loop, punishing 17% climb, and passionate spectators, it promises to once again deliver one of the most exciting days on Philadelphia’s sports calendar.
For longtime fans, it’s a comeback.
For new visitors, it’s a chance to witness one of America’s most challenging urban cycling races.
August 30, 2026
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Wall rises again.
