Bike Oxford 2026 is set to attract more than 700 cyclists this June, with a record number of local charities preparing to take part in what organisers say will be one of the event’s strongest community fundraising efforts to date.
Fifteen charities from across Oxfordshire have already registered riders, joining the event’s main charity partner, Sobell House Hospice, to raise funds for a wide range of local causes.
Among the participating organisations are Oxford Health Charity, Home-Start Oxford, Oxford Breast Buddy Group, Response, Oxford Gatehouse, SSNAP, Helen & Douglas House, The Archway Foundation, Refugee Resource, Asylum Welcome, SeeSaw, Homeless Oxfordshire, Oxford Food Hub and Restore.
Organisers are encouraging members of the public to join the event and cycle for causes they support, including health services, youth initiatives, environmental projects and local community programmes.
“Seeing so many local charities come together through Bike Oxford this year has been incredible,” said Richard Best, Founder of Iconic Cycling Events and Bike Oxford’s Chief Organiser. “It shows how powerful this event has become — not just as a cycling celebration, but as a way for people to make a real difference for the causes and community work they care about.”
Sponsored by Penningtons Manches Cooper, Biddulph Wealth Management and Decathlon, the event will take place on Sunday 21 June and offer three supported routes of 25, 45 and 75 miles.
Cyclists choosing the shorter route will travel through Oxford city landmarks, while longer rides extend into the Cotswolds countryside.
A Cyclability ride will also take place on Friday 19 June at Horspath Athletic Ground, featuring adapted bicycles in a supported setting.
“Sportives are not a race”, said Cathryn Setz, Bike Oxford Ambassador, “they’re a day out. You ride for the love of it, maybe to beat your best, but mostly to just enjoy cruising along quiet country roads together, with a smile on your face.Whether you’re brand new to cycling or a seasoned pro, it’s a fun event with a great community spirit. The ample snacks at the two feed stations certainly help, too.”
