11 Days, Dozens of Bike Races

Do you like bicycles, athletic competition, food, beer, music, being around your fellow Wisconsinites, and a general block party vibe? Well, then, you’re in luck. The Tour of America’s Dairyland begins on Thursday.

The tour is what’s known as a multi-stage criterium race, and it’s the largest competitive road cycling series in the U.S., consisting of 11 straight days of hot bicycle racing action throughout Southeast Wisconsin.

Criterium bicycle racing is done on a short course, with competitors turning laps on a circuit that’s about a mile long. It’s fast and exciting, and there are multiple heats each day.

The series holds appeal for both cyclists and fans. The pedaling set offers a competition for individuals and teams of all ages and skill levels. The unique compressed schedule even attracts elite riders from around the country because it allows them to race daily. For the less fit and/or competitive, it offers something exciting to gawk at, along with plenty of food, beverages, and entertainment to enjoy when between heats.

So whether you want to squeeze your Lycra biking shorts and ride or just throw on your Hawaiian party shirt, you’ll fit right in. You can see the full schedule of events here. And you can still register to join races here.