There’s a reason FoCo Fondo presented by Fat Tire has become one of the most beloved gravel events in Colorado. It’s not just a ride. It’s a full-on summer celebration of bikes, community, and a little bit of challenge yourself energy. That’s why in 2026, they are turning things up to 11.
Returning July 16–19, 2026, in Fort Collins, this gravel adventure blends wide-open riding with a weekend-long festival atmosphere rooted in bikes, beer, and connection. Whether you’re here to race, ride, or simply soak it all in, these eleven tips will set you up for your best FoCo Fondo yet.
1. Turn Up Your Bike Crew
FoCo Fondo isn’t just about structured miles. It’s about the people you ride them with. Instead of going it alone, invite a friend, build a team, or show up solo to a FoCo Fondo training ride and leave with a crew. Group rides and training events leading up to the weekend are one of the best ways to meet fellow riders and find your pace partners for event day. Because somewhere between mile 20 and mile 60, having someone to laugh (or suffer) with makes all the difference.
2. Turn Up Your Bike Fit
Nothing disrupts a great ride like a preventable mechanical. Summer is peak season for bike shops, so give yourself time to tune, test, and dial things in. Think: fresh sealant, solid tread, smooth shifting, and maybe even a little bike upgrade that makes you excited to ride. Because let’s be honest, a happy bike makes for a happy rider. If you’re unsure where to go, might we suggest Brave New Wheel or Drake Cycles, otherwise Trek Bikes and InCycle.
3. Turn Up the Heat (Literally)
Colorado summers bring the sunshine and the heat. Give your body time to adapt by spending more time outside in the weeks leading up to the event. But acclimating isn’t just physical, it’s cultural, too. FoCo Fondo weekend is a full experience. From the Bike & Outdoor Lifestyle Expo to pre-ride hangs and post-ride celebrations, the energy builds all weekend long. Lean into it!
4. Turn Up Your Ride Prep
Flats happen. Chains drop. Gravel has a personality of its own. Knowing how to fix a basic mechanical is both practical and empowering. Pack a saddle bag with an extra tube, plugs, and the all-important multitool, and give yourself the confidence to keep rolling when things get a little, shall we say, character-building. And if you need a little inspiration or a refresher on what to check, this is a great place to start.
5. Turn Up the Challenge
If you’re taking on a new distance challenge, do a “dress rehearsal” before the big day. Ride about 70–80% of your expected event duration with your full setup, including gear, nutrition, and pacing. It’s your chance to smooth out any wrinkles and show up on ride day feeling calm, confident, and ready to roll.
Why duration versus distance?
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15 miles in the mountains is not the same as 15 miles on a flat bike path in terms of physical effort.
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On event day, you can draft, which will help you achieve a higher overall speed.
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Event day excitement usually makes riding feel easier.
6. Turn Up the Ride Fuel
Eating while riding isn’t optional. It’s your secret weapon. Dial in what works for you ahead of time so there are no surprises on event day. A general starting point is 1–1.5 bottles per hour and 1–2 snacks per hour. But more importantly, limit unfamiliar fuel on race day. This is not the day to force down something you hate because you’ve forgotten what you’ve trained with, or try something that leaves you racing to the next potty. Find your go-to treats and make fueling part of the fun. Local sports dietitian Kristen Arnold, MS, RDN, CSSD, wrote a few general guidelines to help you fuel your best.
7. Turn Up Your Arrival
Spoiler alert: This is Fort Collins, and bikes can be spotted everywhere on the reg leaning against patio fences, rolling through downtown, or on the Poudre River trail. Settle into the vibe. It will be here all weekend long. Unpack your bike and take it for a shakeout spin to let your body know you’ve arrived. Grab dinner somewhere, from casual to a leveled-up experience, then hit up Tap Talks at New Belgium Brewing.
8. Turn Up the Expo Energy
The FoCo Fondo Bike & Outdoor Lifestyle Expo runs Saturday and Sunday and includes popular gravel brands, regional changemaker organizations, and many local small businesses. Saturday will also feature an extended Makers’ Fair, live music, and a costumed relay benefiting nonprofit Friends of FoCo Fondo. Expo entry is free and open to anyone; participation in FoCo Fondo is not a requirement.
9. Turn Up the Community
FoCo Fondo was built on community as much as cycling. What started as a grassroots event has grown into a celebration of connection, adventure, and shared challenge. So yes, ride your ride. But also:
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Hang out at the expo
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Cheer at the finish line
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Grab a post-ride drink
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Strike up a conversation with someone new
10. Turn Up the Celebration
The organizers of FoCo Fondo love nothing more than a solid celebration, complete with podium recognition for every route, giveaways for hitching a ride to the event, and nothing less than a handful of cheers with your favorite beverage. Celebrate yourself, the one you came with, or the stranger who left you impressed with their special feats of strength.
11. Turn It Up to 11
Because the best part of FoCo Fondo isn’t just the miles, it’s the experiences you have along the way. With route options ranging from approachable to downright audacious, there’s a place for everyone on the start line. Come for the ride. Stay for the weekend. And leave with stories that last a whole lot longer than your sore legs.
With the ride prep settled, make sure you take time to explore Fort Collins! If you need recommendations, check out our blog, "Beyond the Bike: Must-See Attractions During FoCo Fondo" and Visit Fort Collins' event calendar.
Learn more about FoCo Fondo and register at focofondo.com.
