Bicycling Australia is excited to announce the return of the Mudgee Classic on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May 2026, a milestone year celebrating 10 years of The Classics Gran Fondo series. The Classics first began in 2016 with the inaugural Bowral Classic, and in 2026 it marks a decade of unforgettable rides, iconic destinations, and bringing cyclists together from across the country and globe.
Set amongst rolling countryside, heritage streetscapes, and world-renowned cellar doors, the Mudgee Classic offers riders the ultimate autumn cycling escape. Cyclists can expect a spectacular weekend of gravel adventure, smooth road terrain, outstanding regional hospitality and a festival atmosphere that continues to deliver major tourism benefits to the Mudgee region.
NSW Minister for Sport and Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper, said: “The NSW Government is thrilled to support the Mudgee Classic, which has fast become a staple of the national cycling calendar, attracting riders of all abilities from across the nation and providing a fantastic boost to the local visitor economy.”
“We want to showcase the wide variety of unique visitor experiences right across regional NSW and the Mudgee Classic delivers this by providing an incredible cycling experience through the stunning landscapes of the NSW Central West in one of Australia’s premium food and wine regions.”
Saturday, 2 May: Dirty Mudgee Gravel Rides – now with more gravel & two distances!
Now with new courses, the Dirty Mudgee gravel ride returns on Saturday, 2 May 2026. For the first time, there will be two course options: the 55km Dash and 90km Grit. With expanded gravel sectors and more pure adventure terrain than ever before, the 2026 Dirty Mudgee is not to be missed!
Sunday, 3 May: Gran Fondo Road Rides
The fun continues Sunday, 3 May with the Gran Fondo Road Rides. Catering to all levels of experience, there are four courses to choose from:
- Maxi Classic: A 170km endurance ride for seasoned cyclists ready to tackle the rolling hills and expansive vineyards.
- Challenge Classic: A 120km ride offering a balance of challenge and enjoyment, ideal for regular riders.
- Rouleurs Classic: A 65km course perfect for those seeking a more leisurely yet rewarding experience.
- Social Classic: A 35km ride suited for beginners, families, and those wanting to enjoy a relaxed ride through the countryside.
About Mudgee
Located just a few hours from Sydney, the Mudgee region is celebrated for its premium wineries, gourmet produce, country hospitality, and breathtaking rural scenery, The Mudgee Classic weekend injects significant visitation and economic benefit to the region, filling accommodation, supporting local businesses and suppliers, and inspiring visitors both Australia-wide and internationally to return throughout the year.
Mid-Western Regional Council Mayor Des Kennedy said he was excited to welcome the Classic and its riders back to the region.
“I’m thrilled to see the Mudgee Classic returning in 2026 for its sixth year following the incredible success of this year’s event,” said Mayor Des Kennedy.
“The 2025 ride brought thousands of visitors to our region, filling our local cafes, wineries and accommodation venues. Our rolling hills, quiet country roads and picturesque landscapes make the Mudgee Region the perfect destination for a cycling race of this calibre, delivering real economic and social benefits for our community.”
Registration Information
Early Bird registrations for the 2026 Mudgee Classic are now open. Participants are encouraged to secure their spots and book their accommodation early to avoid disappointment. Join in on the fun as The Classics celebrate 10 years of Australia’s most iconic Gran Gondo series.
About The Classics
The Mudgee Classic is part of The Classics series by Bicycling Australia. Bicycling Australia is the nation’s most established and highly respected cycling media platform. Over the last nine years, The Classics have proudly hosted Gran Fondo Cycling events in three states and continue to deliver The Classics series: the Bowral Classic and the Mudgee Classic.
The Mudgee Classic is proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.