Retro cycling is in fashion: the rise of classic cycling tours
That retro is in fashion is undeniable. Vinyl records are making a comeback, vintage shops are flourishing, and even old video game consoles are enjoying a second youth. Why wouldn't the same thing happen in sports and, more specifically, in cycling?
Pedal lovers have always been deeply respectful of the history of their discipline, but in recent years some have gone beyond talking about which stage of the Giro d'Italia was the most legendary. They have revived the classic spirit not only in memory, but also in practice: classic cycling tours are gaining ground in the national calendar.
These events not only pay tribute to the golden ages of cycling, but also invite you to experience it fully: old steel bikes, wool jerseys, retro footwear, and routes inspired by the great rides of the past. Although most of these rides are aimed at users of classic road bikes, it is increasingly common to see variants or versions adapted to mountain bikes with vintage aesthetics, especially on mixed terrain or gravel.
This type of event is not just a nostalgic trend, but also a different way of understanding cycling: without rushing, without power meters, and with the idea of enjoying the journey, the surroundings, and above all, the history.
What ingredients does a classic cycling tour have?
First of all, forget about competition. Leave the stopwatch at home and don't worry about rankings. What rules here is camaraderie and old bikes, in some cases over 40 years old. Here, it's not about being first, but about enjoying the ride and doing it without hurry, savoring every meter of the route. Of course, in these classic events, style is paramount, starting with the bikes themselves. From steel frames to downtube shifters, including toe-clip pedals, you can see a whole array of technology that has been surpassed by successive innovations, but still retains a unique charm.
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The retro style is not only present in the bicycles, but also in the protagonists themselves, who do not hesitate to wear the most authentic outfits. You can see jerseys from teams such as the legendary KAS, Fagor, Reynolds, Kelme, or Teka.
There are even those who carry spare tires over their shoulders, in the oldest style of the first participants in the grand tours. In this type of ride, every last detail is taken care of, such as the escort motorcycles, which are also vintage. And the refreshments? Don’t expect gels or energy drinks—here, you’ll find traditional foods like Spanish omelette and typical local products, often homemade desserts. Don’t be surprised if, suddenly, someone hands you a wineskin.
What classic cycling tours are held in Spain?
Lovers of the authentic flavor of this type of race have three unmissable events to mark in red on their calendars:
La Pedals de Clip
It takes place in May in the Catalan town of San Martí Sarroca, in the province of Barcelona. It features two routes, one of 70 kilometers and another of 46 kilometers. It’s not just a cycling tour, but an entire program of activities is organized around it to pay homage to the classic bicycle, such as exhibitions of old cycling equipment, painting exhibitions with the same theme, talks, workshops, etc. In addition, there are talks with cyclists from the past and key figures connected in one way or another to the world of cycling. It’s common for former professionals like Perico Delgado, Joan Llaneras, or the Lejarreta brothers to participate.
La Histórica
Every May, this 55-kilometer cycling tour is held, starting and finishing in the town of Abejar in Soria, and passes through several charming villages in the Castilian province. A visit to the Abejar Cycling Museum is a must, and it’s highly recommended to take part in the parallel events that accompany the carrera. Participants ride on dirt roads and unpaved tracks. To regain strength, the traditional torreznos are never missing at the refreshment stops. It’s common to see historic riders at the starting line.
La Retrovisor
In September, in Valdecilla-Medio Cudeyo (Cantabria), a feast of nostalgia on wheels takes place thanks to a ride in which bicycles less than 25 years old or with brake lever shifters are not allowed. The total distance is 60 km and the route, which passes through the Cabárceno Nature Park, is a pleasure in itself. Without the need to use power meters, electronic shifting groups, or carbon fiber frames, retro-style cycling tours are enjoying a great moment. It's another way to experience cycling with an eye on the great feats of the past.