SPECIALIZED CACTUS CUP
SPECIALIZED CACTUS CUP is a mountain bike and road cycling race on March 12–14, 2027 in Fountain Hills, AZ, with entry fees from $10 to $150.
- Date
- March 12–14, 2027 (194 days to go)
- Price
- $10–$150
- Sports
- Mountain BikeRoad Cycling
From the Organizer
🌵 The Cactus Cup 2-Day Stage Race Returns for 2027! 🌵
Arizona’s Original Mountain Bike Stage Race is back with another action-packed 2-day weekend of desert riding, fast racing, and good times.
Since 1991, The Cactus Cup has been the season kickoff for mountain bikers of all levels. In 2027, we’re bringing back the 2-day format with iconic trails, multiple race options, and plenty of ways to take on the weekend.
🔥 The 2027 Format
For the Pros
Saturday
- XC 40-Mile Big Loop
- Short Track Showdown — an evening throwdown!
Sunday
- XC 20-Mile Sprint
🏆 Pro Cup Winner: Aggregate time from all three races
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For Age Groupers – Choose Your Cup
Option 1: The Cactus Cup
Saturday: XC 40-Mile — same course as the pros
Sunday: XC 20-Mile Sprint
🏆 Winner: Combined time from both days
Option 2: The Mini Cup
Saturday: XC 25-Mile
Sunday: XC 20-Mile Sprint
🏆 Winner: Combined time from both days
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Just want to race one day? You can do that too.
Race Saturday, race Sunday, or make a full weekend of it and take on one of the two-day Cup options.
Whether you’re chasing the podium or just looking for a fast desert rip, there’s a way to make the Cactus Cup weekend your own.
The Cactus Cup is back for 2027.
Same iconic trails. Same legendary Cactus Cup vibe. Two packed days of racing.
Let’s ride!
Events
Weather
Typical Conditions
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
73°
Typical Low
50°
Chance of Rain
12%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Fountain Hills, 9 mi from the venue.
Host City
About Fountain Hills, AZ
Nearest Airport
PHX
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport · 27 mi
Time Zone
Mountain Time
From Endurance Grid
Line up lodging and travel early to lock in your race weekend.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
What Are You
Waiting For?
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at SPECIALIZED CACTUS CUP, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
194
Days to train
- Race
- SPECIALIZED CACTUS CUP
- Date
- March 12–14, 2027
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From Endurance Grid
About These Sports
This race spans more than one sport — here’s a guide to each, so you can understand what’s involved and decide if it’s the right fit. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
Mountain Bike
Mountain bike races take place on singletrack trails and natural terrain — dirt, roots, rocks, and forest roads. Mountain biking rewards skill as much as fitness.
Road Cycling
Built around sustained effort on a bike, exploring cities on the open road. Beginner distances create a great entry point into endurance sports.
Coming Up
More Mountain Bike races near Fountain Hills, AZ
Rim Nordic XC MTB Race Series #4
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313 miles away
BearJaw Groove
From $65 · Fort Valley Trailhead
101 miles away
Southern Nevada Pedal Fest
From $20 · 9200 Tule Springs Rd
271 miles away
Chuska Challenge Mountain Bike Race
From $20 · Buffalo Pass on N13
161 miles away
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SPECIALIZED CACTUS CUP?
When and where is the SPECIALIZED CACTUS CUP?
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SPECIALIZED CACTUS CUP
Mar 12, 2027