Tucson Road Routes & Group Rides
Tucson Road Routes & Group Rides
Tucson is one of the best road cycling destinations in the country, with long climbs, desert loops, fast group rides, winter training routes, and scenic roads leaving from town. Use this page to explore Fair Wheel Bikes’ road route suggestions, major group rides, and rental bike options for pavement-focused Tucson riding.
Need a road bike for your ride? Fair Wheel Bikes road rentals are picked up and returned through the 6th Street Location at 1110 E 6th St, Tucson, AZ. Visit the Road Bike Rentals page or call (520) 884-9018 for sizing and pickup help.
Featured Road Rides
The Original Shootout
The Shootout is Tucson’s classic fast Saturday group ride. The ride begins with a neutral rollout before opening up after Valencia, drawing strong local riders, visiting racers, gravel pros, and professional-level talent throughout the season.
Tuesday Morning Fast Ride
The Tuesday Morning Fast Ride is the weekday version of Tucson’s famous fast group ride. The route is shorter and more technical than The Shootout but still carries plenty of speed, power, and local ride history.
Mt. Lemmon
Mt. Lemmon is Tucson’s signature road climb. Riders can start from town or near Le Buzz and climb Catalina Highway toward Windy Point, Thimble Peak Vista, and Summerhaven. It is a true benchmark ride for visiting road cyclists.
Tucson Mountain Passes
The west side of Tucson offers shorter but classic road climbs through Tucson Mountain Park and Saguaro National Park West. Gates Pass is a local favorite and a strong choice for visitors who want desert scenery without committing to Mt. Lemmon.
Big Square
Big Square is another west-side road route that uses Gates Pass and heads deeper into Tucson’s desert landscape. It is a good choice for riders looking for a bigger loop with rolling terrain and open scenery.
Saguaro East / Colossal Cave
The east side of Tucson has excellent road riding beyond Mt. Lemmon. Saguaro East, Colossal Cave, and Pistol Hill make a strong loop for riders looking for rolling desert roads, more distance, and a different view of Tucson.
Tucson Group Rides
Tucson’s group ride culture is a major part of the local road scene. The Shootout and Tuesday Morning Fast Ride are the best-known fast rides, but pace, route expectations, and start times can change by season. Review the ride details before joining and be prepared for a self-supported group ride.
The Shootout
Saturday fast group ride and one of Tucson’s most recognized road rides. Expect a neutral rollout, high speed, and strong riders.
Tuesday Morning Fast Ride
A shorter weekday fast ride with technical roads, sharp efforts, and local race-pace history.
Before Joining
Bring water, food, flat repair, and know the route. Tucson group rides can split quickly once the pace increases.
For current group ride information, visit the Fair Wheel Bikes Group Rides Page →
Best Rental Bikes For Road Routes
Carbon Road Rentals
Best for Mt. Lemmon, Gates Pass, The Shootout, Saguaro loops, long paved rides, and faster road efforts.
Gravel Rentals For Rougher Roads
Some Tucson routes include rough pavement, shoulders, and mixed-surface options. A gravel bike may be better for rougher route plans.
Before You Ride
Tucson road rides can involve long distances, exposed desert, fast descents, rough pavement, and quick weather changes. Bring water, food, sun protection, flat repair, and a charged phone. Check route distance, climbing, daylight, and seasonal conditions before heading out.
Road Route & Rental Questions?
Call the 6th Street Location at (520) 884-9018 for road rental sizing, pickup details, route suggestions, or help choosing the right bike for your Tucson road ride.