The North Race 2026

The North Race 2026 – Leeds, United Kingdom

• Date: 5–6 September 2026
• Location: Leeds, United Kingdom
• Distances: Rider-determined, maximum distance north in 24 hours
• Event Type: Self-supported bikepacking race

The North Race presents a unique challenge in the world of bikepacking races in the UK. Departing from Leeds, riders are tasked not with a set course, but with a simple directive: ride as far north as possible and return to the start, all within a strict 24-hour window. It is a test of strategy, endurance, and navigation, where the route is entirely of the rider's own making. The clock starts at midday on Saturday and stops at midday on Sunday, not a second later.

The format is as simple as it is demanding. With no fixed route, participants must chart their own course northward, seeking out roads and pathways legally navigable by bike. This freedom allows for immense creativity in route planning. One could stick to fast, direct roads or explore quieter, more scenic byways. The terrain is whatever you find. The only goal is to maximize your latitudinal gain from the Leeds headquarters before turning back to beat the clock.

This event invites riders of all approaches. Some may choose a leisurely pace, finding a country pub to mark their northernmost point before meandering home. Others will adopt a time-trial mindset, pushing their physical limits to see how far north they can truly get. Whether riding solo or as part of a team, the challenge remains the same: balance speed, distance, and the knowledge that every kilometre ridden north must be retraced on the return leg.

The atmosphere at the Restrap factory headquarters in Leeds promises to be a key part of the experience. The weekend begins with coffee and conversation, as riders sign on and make final preparations. As the race unfolds, the factory becomes a hub for dot-watching friends and family, with the energy building towards the Sunday finish. The event embraces its community, celebrating the shared effort and creating a welcoming space for all participants, which is a hallmark of many great other gravel events in the United Kingdom.

Beyond the ride itself, The North Race is structured as a proper self-supported competition. Riders must carry a provided tracker and record their own GPS track. Standard unsupported rules apply: no outside assistance that isn’t available to all, and no drafting unless riding as a registered team. Categories for Men, Women, and Teams ensure a competitive element, with cash prizes for the winners based on distance and elevation gain, adding extra motivation for the journey.

The true essence of this bikepacking race in the UK is found in the personal challenge and the stories created along the way. It’s a race against the clock, the map, and oneself. From the pre-ride anticipation to the post-ride celebrations with food and drink, it’s an event that brings people together through a shared test of will. For full details and to enter, consult the official event website.