The Gran Fondo: Cycling’s Fastest-Growing Group-Ride Phenomenon

You've probably heard about the party on wheels that is a gran fondo. It's actually a little shocking how quickly its popularity is growing in the United States: Nearly every major North American city from San Diego to New York now hosts one.

The Italian import (the name translates roughly to “big ride”) is different than a charity ride or a century in that it traditionally begins with thousands of riders lining up for a mass start. And though a gran fondo is not a race, the pace can be brisk because many events feature timed sections (usually climbs).

That’s why Bicycling magazine is offering a unique gran fondo training opportunity for cyclists of all levels. Choose one of two premium 8-week programs—the result of an exclusive collaboration between Bicycling and professional cycling coach Alec Donahue of Cycle-Smart Coaching in Massachusetts. Whether you want to crush a time goal or simply finish with enough energy to enjoy the post-fondo festivities, these plans will get you there.

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