Riva del Garda, 16 December 2025. It is still winter in Lake Garda, but preparations for one of Europe’s most popular bike events are already in full swing: the 32nd Bike Festival Riva del Garda returns to the iconic lakeside promenade from 1 to 3 May 2026 – bigger and more immersive than ever.
Title sponsor FSA has renewed its eight-year partnership for another three years. “We are proud to be extending our collaboration with Garda Trentino for the third consecutive time,” says Giorgio Marra, Project Manager at FSA. “The Bike Festival is not just an event, but a project that was launched back in 2018. It developed continuously thanks to both partners – with the aim of making it more accessible and attractive to a wide audience year after year.” This is one of the reasons the festival is unveiling a new key visual that captures the unique Garda feeling. The region is also strengthening its role as a meeting point for the entire off-road bike world, from (e-)mountain biking to gravel riding. “This is all thanks to the joint efforts of the teams at Garda Trentino and FSA, who work together on new concepts, activities, competitions and formats for everyone,” adds Marra.
In 2026, the Bike Festival will increase its focus on sustainability, ensuring environmentally-friendly event logistics, supporting regional partners and embracing its social and economic responsibility. The aim is to preserve the beauty of the region while having a long-term positive impact on the local community. “In recent years, Bike Festival Riva has increasingly distinguished itself through its attention to sustainability,” says Silvio Rigatti, President of Garda Dolomiti Azienda per il Turismo S.p.A, “not only in ecological terms, but also from a social perspective. More than 170 volunteers took part in the last edition. This highlights the value of an event that can generate positive impacts for the community and the local economy: the best results can only be achieved together.”
“This path is fully aligned with the commitment we pursue as a destination certified by the GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council), the most important international certification for ecological, social, cultural and economic sustainability in tourism,” adds Rigatti.
Registration Open for the First Races
From youth to pros, from hobby riders to adrenaline seekers, four competitions will once again be available to participants in 2026. This year’s race package is even more extensive thanks to an expanded collaboration with title sponsor FSA. Riders of all levels can now look forward to exclusive starter kits: “Anyone who registers for one of the competitions will receive a special gift jointly designed by FSA and Garda Trentino,” reveals Marra.
The legendary Bike Marathon features three routes around Riva del Garda: Ronda Piccola (30.67 km, 1,065 m elevation gain) is ideal for recreational riders, Ronda Grande (59.56 km, 2,406 m elevation gain) will thrill more experienced participants, and Ronda Extrema (82.77 km, 3,434 m elevation gain) is classified as a UCI race for professionals and promises intense competition.
E-bike enthusiasts can take part in the E-Bike Marathon (48 km, 1,700 m elevation gain), which guarantees both uphill and downhill riding sensations and combines cutting-edge technology with a unique experience in nature.
The MAXXIS Gravel Garda Trentino, held on two different courses, is about speed and fun combined. Breathtaking views and an authentic Garda atmosphere make this race one of the most important gravel events on the European calendar, taking place for the first time on a Sunday this year.
Young riders take centre stage at the SCOTT Junior Trophy, where children and teenagers can find fun courses ranging from 250 m to 3.5 km. Registration for all races is already open; registration for the BOSCH eMTB Challenge will follow soon.
Three Days of Action, Bikes and Holiday Flair
For more than three decades, the FSA Bike Festival has been a must-attend event for tens of thousands of bike fans, from UCI professionals and amateur riders to families. In the EXPO Area, a space made even larger this coming edition, exhibitors will showcase the latest bikes, trends and innovations. Test rides, side events and guided tours will once again make the festival a 2026 highlight that appeals beyond the bike community. Anyone who wants to soak up those Garda Trentino vibes before the May event can find sustainable festival merchandise in the online shop. From organic cotton T-shirts and socks made from recycled yarn to the popular gravel collection, there are perfect as a gift, or to get yourself ready for the new season in style.
EXPO Registration for Exhibitors
Registration is now also open for exhibitors. Manufacturers and brands have until 31 January 2026 to book their stand in the expanded EXPO Area at the FSA Bike Festival HERE
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