Baumier wheels offer two remarkable qualities – a lifetime warranty and they’re made in Canada – and we were excited to test their RT40 Lifetime wheelset this spring. Other wheels in the lineup include the RT40 Hors-Catégorie (HC), the GT24 Ultralight, and the GT24 Lifetime.

Founded by Benjamin du Haÿs, who previously co-founded Mobeewave that developed secure contactless payment technology and was acquired by Apple, Baumier also recently launched its very first complete bicycle, the B01 that also features their wheels – read our Baumier B01 Toronto launch report here.

According to the Baumier website, “From manufacturing to assembly, Baumier takes the time to ensure that every rim meets the highest standard of quality and reliability. We’re all about high-performance wheels designed to last.” Of note, the company also reflects a philosophy, “where performance and responsibility go hand in hand,” underscoring Baumier’s commitment to more ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices.

When looking for a set of carbon fibre wheels, there’s a lot to consider such as size and weight which are two key factors in the evaluation process. The Baumier RT 40 wheels measure up at 40mm in height with a 19mm inner width, and they weigh in at 1,387gms for the wheelset. 

Where these wheels truly differentiate themselves from the rest of the peloton, is in their durability. The RT 40 utilizes 24 titanium spokes and a titanium freehub body, which are intended to maximize longevity, and as noted, Baumier confidently backs their wheelsets with a lifetime guarantee. 

While many brands market carbon wheels primarily around speed, Baumier positions their RT40 as a wheelset designed to be ridden hard for many years, rather than be replaced after a few seasons. 

The wheels can be configured with a SRAM or Shimano compatible freehub body, and come with a center lock disc brake mount and thru axles. Being tubeless ready is another nice feature, but for our test report they were ridden with tubes for simplicity’s sake. 

The RT40s are the kind of wheels that you can put on your bike and ride all day long, and in all conditions. These wheels offer a natural feel and stiffness while cornering and climbing, but not a teeth-rattling, rigid feel when the road gets rough. 

They do a good job of taking any road vibrations out of the ride, and they make the ride feel more compliant and easier during longer excursions.

Another standout feature of the RT40 wheelset is its focus on ride comfort. Baumier claims the titanium spokes naturally absorb vibration, creating a smoother ride than many traditional carbon wheelsets.

For endurance riders, gran fondo participants, and cyclists who spend long hours on rough pavement, this could be a genuine advantage over ultra-stiff race wheels.

These wheels also shine when the road turns to gravel. Their dampening quality really help take the edge out of gravel roads which helps minimize bike vibrations, allowing for longer gravels rides and less fatigue at the end of the outing. 

The 40 mm profile is a great height and is the sweet spot between aerodynamics and crosswind stability. This depth is great for all-around road riding because it maintains its aerodynamic qualities without becoming overly difficult to handle in gusty conditions. 

The no frills finish also provides a durable look to the wheels that isn’t high polish, but rather presents a visually striking classic carbon weave that can handle the rigours of gravel races and still come out looking great. 

Baumier’s RT40 wheelset is less about chasing marginal gains and more about creating a premium wheelset that remains comfortable, dependable, and enjoyable over thousands of kilometers – all with an aero advantage. Made in Canada is just the icing on the cake!

The MSRP is $3,495 with specs below and for more information please visit here.

Size        700c
Construction      Carbon – hooked
Tire Compatibility             23mm – 40mm – tubeless or tubed
Brake Compatibility         Disc (Center Lock)
Inner Width        19mm
Outer Width       26mm
Rim Depth           40mm
Max Tire Pressure            120psi/8.4bar
Max Recommended System Weight         265lbs/120kg
Front Weight      648g
Rear Weight       749g
Wheelset Weight             1397g
Hub Type             Erase Centerlock SP
Engagement       36 points of engagement / 10 degrees
Freehub Body    SRAM XDR / Shimano HG / Shimano Micro spline
Spoke Type         Ti Duo Aero
Spoke Count       24
Bearing Material               Steel

Over the course of the weekend, riders will race up picturesque mountain roads, experience historical downtown Fernie and connect with a growing community of Canadian gravel cyclists. Following their mission, Anything Goes With Gravel, the race itself is open to anyone and everyone and offers multiple distances, race categories and fun activities for the whole family all weekend long.

FGG Weekend Schedule

Friday, July 3rd | Station Square 
FESTIVAL & EXPO DAY 
12:00pm – Venue & Rider Package Pickup Opens
1:00pm – Shakeout Ride p/b Specialized
2:00pm – Women’s+ Ride p/b Tactic Nutrition
4:30pm – Athlete Panel Q&A
5:30pm – Rider Welcome Meeting
6:45pm – Beer Garden Last Call 
7:00pm – Industry Night Closes

Saturday, July 4th | Station Square
THE GRAVEL GRIND 
7:30am to 8:45am – Late rider sign in and package pickup 9:00am – Long Haul Start
TBA- Medium Haul Start
TBA – Short Haul Start 
12:30-3:30pm – Riders Finish at Station Square
TUNES IN THE TOWN – Everyone Welcome! Live Music, Beer Tent, Food Trucks and more! FREE!
4:00pm – Wattsup Challenge p/b Bowhead Corp. 
5:30pm – Award Presentations p/b 7mesh Apparel
6:30pm – Little Bit Good Band
8:30pm – Rubber Tire Peep Show 
11:00pm – Tunes in the Town Closes

Register here.

“Since releasing our original statement on the unfortunate cancellation of the Canadian Gravel Championships, we were heartbroken to see disinformation and misguided rhetoric posted online that completely mischaracterized what happened and how the extremely difficult decision was reached. It is important to us that people take time to get the facts before reaching their respective conclusions,” wrote Jon Watkin, President and CEO of Panache Cycling Sports.   

While high temperatures were expected in the weather forecast that day, conditions were much worse than anticipated. “However, race day conditions rose far beyond what we and the majority of racers predicted. While regional and start/finish air temperatures reached 35°C, riders were experiencing recorded peak temperatures near 40°C on the steepest and exposed parts of the course where the radiant heat was almost unbearable.” 

“The event team reviewed conditions against UCI Extreme Weather Protocol criteria where on course measurements and medical reports confirmed air temperatures ≥ 35°C, heat‑related medical cases were rising, medical teams were overloaded, response times were delayed, and water supplies were depleting faster than expected. These conditions met the threshold requiring race cancellation.”

Former to pro, Michael Woods, had apparently already finished the men’s race as the “unofficial” winner when the announcement was made. Woods had broken away from defending champ Benjamin Perry and Andrew “Lespy” L’Esperance who also finished the 123km race.

The women’s race included top riders such as Hailey Smith, Lucy Hempstead and Kaitlyn Rauwerda, who were leading at the time that the event was cancelled.

Despite the disappointment felt by riders, teams and fans, the safety of all competitors took precedence. The entire situation and the status of the championship race results and titles is being reviewed by Cycling Canada and organizer Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.

“We are deeply disappointed that we could not properly recognize on race day the incredible effort and dedication so many athletes brought to this championship. No one is more devastated than we are. But your safety will always come before results, podiums, or expectations and that is a principle we will never compromise,” wrote Jon Watkin, President and CEO of Panache Cycling Sports.

“Panache Cycling Sports has always taken pride in an impeccable safety record, built over years of careful planning, professional standards, and respect for every rider who lines up at our events. That commitment guided us here as well,” wrote Jon Watkin, President and CEO of Panache Cycling Sports – read the full statement below.

Updated Statement on the 2026 Canadian Gravel Championships
Since releasing our original statement on the unfortunate cancellation of the Canadian Gravel Championships, we were heartbroken to see disinformation and misguided rhetoric posted online that completely mischaracterized what happened and how the extremely difficult decision was reached. It is important to us that people take time to get the facts before reaching their respective conclusions.

The event team spent the entire week preparing for a forecast of 28-30°C, following all UCI Extreme Weather Protocol requirements. Prior to race day, we made every effort to notify and warn participants through email communications as well as the riders/managers meeting on June 13. In that meeting (which was in person and available to watch online), we clearly communicated that high temps of up to 30°C were expected on race day and that participants plan accordingly. Safety protocols were also communicated which included how to handle any emergency situation, locations of radio relay points/medical/food stations/on the course, and explaining the emergency evacuation protocol for fire/heat/air quality. A 1:30pm mandatory cutoff mid way at aid station 2 / course lap junction was also highlighted and explained. Further Details of the bottle drop were provided that allowed Championship racers to arrange to have their own feed bag/bottles dropped off on race day early morning and taken to any of the aid stations for them to access. From that point, we were comfortable that the event could proceed as planned.

However, race day conditions rose far beyond what we and the majority of racers predicted. While regional and start/finish air temperatures reached 35°C, riders were experiencing recorded peak temperatures near 40°C on the steepest and exposed parts of the course where the radiant heat was almost unbearable. Water stations were depleting quickly from participants of all ability levels underestimating their respective consumption rates and were experiencing obvious heat related distress. Medical teams reached capacity while responding to multiple incidents and could no longer guarantee safe response times in the very remote areas of the course. Numerous calls for numerous racers requiring pick up and transportation mid-race reached a critical point, adding a new risk situation where introducing more vehicles on course would pose a further risk to racers, especially on the steep downhill gravel sections.

The event team reviewed conditions against UCI Extreme Weather Protocol criteria where on course measurements and medical reports confirmed air temperatures ≥ 35°C, heat related medical cases were rising, medical teams were overloaded, response times were delayed, and water supplies were depleting faster than expected.

These conditions met the threshold requiring race cancellation. The collective decision was made to cancel the event in the interest of rider safety. Radio operators activated the emergency evacuation protocol and instructed riders to return to the start/finish via the shortest route. A coordinated pickup caravan was deployed to retrieve riders who were unable to return on their own due to heat distress.
At the end of the day, the decision to cancel was the only responsible choice. When temperatures spiked far beyond all forecasts and the majority of riders of every ability level began experiencing heat related distress, our duty was clear……protect the athletes. We stand by that decision wholeheartedly.

Panache Cycling Sports has always taken pride in an impeccable safety record, built over years of careful planning, professional standards, and respect for every rider who lines up at our events. That commitment guided us here as well.

We are deeply disappointed that we could not properly recognize on race day the incredible effort and dedication so many athletes brought to this championship. No one is more devastated than we are. But your safety will always come before results, podiums, or expectations and that is a principle we will never compromise.

Jon Watkin
President and CEO
Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.

For more information please visit here.

Top racers such as former pro, Michael Woods, were competing in the 123km race with 2,000 meters of climbing, and apparently Woods had already finished the men’s race as the “unofficial” winner. He was followed by defending champ Benjamin Perry and Andrew “Lespy” L’Esperance. It’s unclear what the status of the women’s race was, which included top riders such as Hailey Smith and Lucy Hempstead, at the time that it was cancelled.

The event was run in tandem with the recreational Burnt Bridge Classic, and the status of the championship race results and titles will be reviewed by Cycling Canada and organizer Panache Cycling Sports Ltd. who issued the following statement.

Statement from Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.
On Sunday, June 14, the decision was made to cancel the 2026 Canadian Gravel Championships. This decision was not made lightly. During the event, an assessment was made, that the on-course conditions did not meet the safety standards required for participants to continue racing.

Going into the event, additional precautionary measures had been put in place and communicated at the riders/managers meeting based on weather conditions to be expected at that time.  These included offering a bottle drop at aid stations, adding more water and ice resources, and introducing a mandatory cut off time at 1:30pm for riders at aid station 2.

As the event progressed, we monitored the situation referencing the Cycling BC Air Quality and Extreme Weather Safety Guidelines. Over the course of the day, medical resources began to reach their capacity, creating a vulnerable situation for riders on course.  On course race temperatures of greater than 34+ degrees Celsius were measured, and it became clear that proceeding with the event would not meet the safety standards required for every participant.

We recognize this decision was met with disappointment, and we understand the time, training, and commitment you have invested in participating in the Canadian Gravel Championships event. Panache Cycling Sports is working diligently with Cycling Canada to determine the fairest possible outcome regarding results and titles. We expect to provide an update by the end of the week. 

Your safety is, and will always remain, our highest priority. Thank you for your understanding, your patience, and your continued support of gravel racing in Canada. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or Cycling Canada directly for clarification. 

Sincerely, 
Jon Watkin
Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.

For more information please visit here.

Important Update on Licensing
Participants taking part in the Burnt Bridge Classic / Canadian Gravel Championships should be mindful of licensing requirements. All riders competing in Canadian Championship categories (Elite, U19, U17) must have a valid UCI license. There will be no one-day or citizen licenses issued for Canadian Championship categories.

Masters riders racing in the Canadian Championship must at minimum have a Provincial Race License. Note we are expanding Masters Age Categories by 5 Year Increments: 35-39 / 40-44 / 45-49 / 50-54 / 55-59 / 60

For the Open Non Championship categories (Impulso, Intermedio, Esperto), a race license is not required but it is encouraged. For more information visit here.

Technical Guide v2
Read/Download the Burnt Bridge Classic Tech Guide
Important information about the race, rules, schedule, routes, and more.
Available in English / French
Download here.

Schedule of Events
Saturday June 13, 2026
10:00 AM to 5:30 PM Check in and race package pick-up

Sunday June 14, 2026
7:30 AM to 9:00 AM Check in and package pick-up
9:15 AM Greetings, Rider’s Briefing

9:30 AM Championship Elite Men
9:30 AM Championship U19 Men

9:35 AM Championship Elite Women
9:35 AM Championship U19 Women

9:40 AM Championship Master Men A/B
9:40 AM Championship Master Men C/D

9:45 AM Championship U17 Men/U17 Women
9:45 AM Championship Master Women A/B/C/D

9:50 AM Open Esperto Fondo (Non Championship)
9:50 AM Open Intermedio Fondo (Non Championship)
9:52 AM Open Impulso Fondo (Non Championship)

​11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Food Truck & Drinks
3:00 PM Awards Presentations

Registration, accommodations, directions to venue here.

Warm weather greeted participants at the new start/finish location in the City of Leduc, including a new route in Western Leduc County. Riders enjoyed four curated routes from 24km to 150km along the pristine gravel roads and by-ways of Leduc & Wetaskiwin Counties in the heart of Alberta.

The event was well-received by residents and businesses alike and this year the Festivus of Gravel supported the Prostate Cancer Centre raising $2K to date with more to come.

“We really appreciate everyone coming out and of course all of our event partners, volunteers, local bike shops, and all of our supporters. It’s exciting to see the event grow and luckily, we were one week before the monsoon hit us here,” commented co-organizer Alex Stieda of Tour de France yellow jersey fame.

Sponsors included the City of Leduc, Leduc County, Castelli Cycling, United Sport & Cycle, Cranky’s Bike Shop, Hardcore Bikes, Revolution Cycle, Radstyle Cycle, Mud Sweat and Gears, Vittoria Group, Skratch Labs, Shimano, Flexion Bike Fit, Best Cycling Great Escapes, Squirt Cycling Products Canada, Leduc Brewing, and Big Hand Craft Distilleries.

Results are available here.

The Baumier team rode from Montreal to Toronto as testimony to the new bicycle brand that’s “made in Canada” and combines long-distance performance, durability with responsible local manufacturing while pushing the boundaries of cycling.

The sleek looking B01 is designed, engineered, and manufactured entirely in the Marché Central district in Montreal, and reflects a philosophy “where performance and responsibility go hand in hand.” Every bike comes with a lifetime warranty and is built with repairability in mind, underscoring Baumier’s commitment to more ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices.

According to Baumier the company developed its own proprietary manufacturing technology over eight years of engineering to meet these standards resulting in a high-performance process used in the composites industry: Resin Flow Composite (RFC). “This process enables an optimal balance of lightness, strength, and zero-waste production, while maintaining the highest performance standards. The B01 frame is constructed from carbon tubes produced using this technology, paired with 3D-printed titanium lugs, creating a structure that is both high-performing, durable, and repairable.”

Benjamin Grenon welcomed the crowd and gave a brief background of Baumier and the company’s desire to work with small, quality suppliers while striving to deliver products that embrace strong environmental and human values, including a love for the planet.

Baumier founder, Benjamin du Haÿs, who previously co-founded Mobeewave that developed secure contactless payment technology and was acquired by Apple, spoke about the technical aspects of the new Baumier B01. He noted the structural balance of combining carbon tubes with 3D-printed Grade 5 Titanium lugs while stressing the replacement and repairability aspects including the zero-waste production. “We work in collaboration with universities and research centres in Montreal to manage and minimize waste in the production process as part of our commitment to the environment.”

The Baumier B01 comes in three models the Hors-Catégorie (HC) with a Shimano XTR Dura-Ace Di2 or Sram Red XPLR drivetrain; the Lifetime (LT) with a Shimano GRX-827 Di2 drivetrain; and the Timeless (TL) featuring a Shimano GRX mechanical drivetrain.

All models feature the company’s quality wheelsets, RT40 HC or GT24 UL, made in Montreal as well. As du Haÿs explained, “We launched the wheels last year, knowing it would take much longer for the bikes, as we wanted to get things rolling and begin our journey, and now here we are.” Look for our Baumier wheelset test report coming soon.

Grenon added that Baumier was recently awarded BCorp certification, another big step for the brand. Then he introduced Lisa Tong, their Toronto Baumier ambassador for the presentation of her new Baumier B01 bike.

Tong is a former triathlete who loves cycling and quipped, “I’m excited to be part of the Baumier team, and will leave the technical aspects to others in the company. My love and focus is on riding and I hope to share our passion for cycling across the city. I also love the colour pink so I’m as excited as everyone to see my new bike.”

It was time for the unveiling with du Haÿs and Grenon doing the honours as Tong’s stunning new Baumier B01 Lifetime (LT) model, but with an upgraded SRAM Red groupset instead of the usual SRAM Force, was revealed including cool pink accents… along with plenty of smiles.

The evening concluded with delicious square pizza from renowned Descendant Detroit Style Pizza based in Toronto’s east end.

Baumier’s Ride to Launch campaign included stops in Montreal and Quebec City and for more information please visit here.

“The bicycle can serve as a tool for development and as a means not just of transportation but also of access to education and healthcare. The potential of the bicycle to contribute to the achievement of the internationally agreed development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals and targets of the 2030 Agenda,” states the UN’s 2018 resolution.

Why celebrate the bicycle?
Regular physical activity of moderate intensity – such as walking, cycling, or doing sports – has significant benefits for health. At all ages, the benefits of being physically active outweigh potential harm, for example through accidents. Some physical activity is better than none. By becoming more active throughout the day in relatively simple ways, people can quite easily achieve the recommended activity levels.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), safe infrastructure for walking and cycling is also a pathway for achieving greater health equity. For the poorest urban sector, who often cannot afford private vehicles, walking and cycling can provide a form of transport while reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, diabetes, and even death. Accordingly, improved active transport is not only healthy; it is also equitable and cost-effective.

Meeting the needs of people who walk and cycle continues to be a critical part of the mobility solution for helping cities de-couple population growth from increased emissions, and to improve air quality and road safety. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led many cities to rethink their transport systems.

Cycling and sustainable development
World Bicycle Day draws attention to the benefits of using the bicycle — a simple, affordable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation. The bicycle contributes to cleaner air and less congestion and makes education, health care and other social services more accessible to the most vulnerable populations. A sustainable transport system that promotes economic growth, reduces inequalities while bolstering the fight against climate change is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

On 15 March 2022, the General Assembly adopted the resolution on integration of mainstream bicycling into public transportation systems for sustainable development. It emphasized that the bicycle is an instrument of sustainable transportation and conveys a positive message to foster sustainable consumption and production, and has a positive impact on climate.

Background
Acknowledging the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for two centuries, and that it is a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health, the General Assembly decided to declare 3 June World Bicycle Day.

It encouraged stakeholders to emphasize and advance the use of the bicycle as a means of fostering sustainable development, strengthening education, including physical education, for children and young people, promoting health, preventing disease, promoting tolerance, mutual understanding and respect and facilitating social inclusion and a culture of peace.

The Assembly welcomed initiatives to organize bicycle rides at the national and local levels as a means of strengthening physical and mental health and well-being and developing a culture of cycling in society.

Read more here.

On the men’s side, Nino Schurter was already the greatest of all time, with more records to his name than most could keep track of. This week, he added another one. The Scott-SRAM racer is the first European to win the BC Bike Race in its 20 year history.

Ruth Holcomb similarly impressed on the women’s side, fending off attacks from a strong field to take the BCBR title in her first appearance.

Nino Schurter lands at the BC Bike Race
Anticipation for the 2026 BC Bike Race started building last year, when it was announced this was not just the 20th anniversary but also the final seven day experience. The hype ramped into overdrive when Nino Schurter decided to make his BCBR debut.

“I always heard good stories from this race and during my career I always enjoyed the technical riding, so I thought this is a race always on my bucket list. It’s my first year of retirement from World Cup racing so I took the opportunity and it was a blast!”

Did the Ultimate Singletrack Experience live up to expectations?

“It absolutely did. Definitely some of the best trails I have ever raced on. It’s really cool to win this race”

Schurter is the first European to win the BC Bike Race. While many have tried, he’s the first to succeed in bringing the title across the Atlantic. That meant taking the title from some rather defensive and fast locals.

“It was difficult, actually. Some of these trails have lines where, if you don’t know the trail, you don’t know where the fastest line is. It was a challenge going up against the locals that know the trails when I don’t, but it was a good challenge. “It’s different racing, it’s so much more technical riding. That’s what I’m looking for now, to do stuff like this that’s really cool. The best riding in the world!”

Holcomb hauls all the way to the finish line in Cowichan
On the women’s side, Ruth Holcomb proved she’s a serious threat on two wheels of any kind. Taking a little side trip from her training with the U.S. team pursuit squad on the track and normal gravel racing with Santa Cruz, Holcomb was thriving back on mountain bikes.

“I haven’t got to do a proper mountain bike race in long time, so it was really nice to be back.”

Holcomb won several stages, but was pushed to two sprint finishes. And conceded stage wins to Sandra Walter and Katerina Nash, while fending off challenges from Hannah Simms. The Californian loved the challenge of the BCBR experience.

“It was awesome. I didn’t really know what to expect. Every day was just amazing trails, amazing riding. I feel like the race played out differently every day, which was sick. I won, which is also awesome, but it’s just such a fun week. I had such a good time.”

What stage stood out?

“I loved Stage three, that was my favourite day in the rain. I surprised myself on the climb and just had the best time on the trails. “

Canadians push the G.O.A.T. on home turf
While Schurter won, he didn’t walk away with the title. A trio of Canadians (and some Californians) pushed the Scott-SRAM rider to five sprint finishes in seven days, one of the closest and most exciting BC Bike Race’s yet.

Peter Disera led that effort, even stealing a trio of wins from Schurter. The multi-time Canadian national champion and Olympian was looking forward to one more chance to try upset the G.O.A.T., only to be taken out by an unexpected crash on the climb up Maple Mountain.

“I was stoked to have another battle day. I felt like I was getting my legs back underneath me. When we hit Maple, we were on this little out and back I’d never done before and something stabbed me in the wrist and threw me to the inside of a corner. I hit a root ball and came to a complete stop.”

With the sudden impact to his thigh, Disera was left struggling to pedal, let alone put power down.

“That’s the part that actually hurts. I was excited to have a good go at it. Bringing back 45 seconds on Schurter’s just not going to happen, but I was excited to try.”

Still, second behind Schurter is not a bad result. Even Disera has to admit that.

“I have no business doing what I did for the first four days. It was pretty cool to have half of the week be competitive.”

Hannah Simms surges into second
Another young rider pushing the women’s field was Hannah Simms. After a steady start to the week, the Ontario-born rider worked her way up the standings, day by day. With big rides on Day 5 and 6, where she pushed Holcomb to a sprint finish, Simms rolled across the line with the group in Cowichan. While the finish was cordial, Day 7 was still very much a race.

“Katerina and Ruth got into the descent first, and I just knew I had to close it down,” Simms said after the race.

It was one last test of the week, and Simms passed. Now located in B.C., the Kona racer found flow in the gnar to catch Holcomb and Nash on the way down Maple Syrup. That kind of measured effort all week is what got Simms into second overall.

“I’ve done a bunch of stage racing, and I’ve done this race twice before. I know anything can happen and everyone’s going to have good days and bad days. I just tried to be as consistent as possible.”

B.C. locals battle for the podium
While Peter Disera finished closest to Schurter, the battle for podium positions pitted two B.C. locals against a pair of California racers for the remaining podium positions. Carter Nieuwesteeg from Fernie, B.C. has raced multiple BCBR’s in the past and came away with third overall. Friday saw Carter chasing Schurter solo after Disera’s crash.

“The first couple BCBR’s here, I just got shattered on Maple. I’ve ridden it so much, just to figure out pacing. Today, though, I just rode as hard as I could to hold onto Nino.”

Nieuwesteeg held close to the Swiss rider on the climb and finished second on the stage, and in the overall, his best BCBR finish to date.

“It was the best one yet. I’m definitely sad that it’s the last 7-day,” said Nieuwesteeg. Carter’s not just a racer. He also organises his own series of events back at home in Fernie. “Even just seeing the organisers today, they’re definitely teary eyed. The production, the organisation, the volunteers, it’s a crazy production. They’re all so into it. Huge respect.”

The King of Fox DH
Another Vancouver Island local thriving on home trails was Max McCulloch. The Victoria native, and formerly Cumberland resident rolled into the final day fighting for podiums and a win. McCulloch couldn’t quite catch Nieuwesteeg to move into third, but he did fend off Tobin Ortenblad and moved back past Justin Peck after a rough day in Nanaimo.

“Yesterday was really rough. I didn’t feel good last night, but the legs came around and I was able to hang on on the bigger climbs. Then I was kind of in no man’s land. I went full-gas over the top, and seemed like everything was raked or brushed on the descent. Honestly, the day went about as perfect as it could have gone.

As you might have picked up from that, McCulloch made liberal use of his descending skills to reign in the other top pros. That earned the Victoria rider the crown in the Fox Timed DH standings as well as a very impressive fourth overall in the pro men’s race.

“I wasn’t really sure going into it where I’d stack up. I think it ended quite a bit better than I thought.”

The Queen of BCBR lands another podium (and another crown)
If there’s one woman that has defined the last decade of BC Bike Race, it’s Katerina Nash. After a rough day in Nanaimo, Nash was right back on form and in the flow on Maple Syrup.

“Today was fun, so I knew what was coming up. I gathered that last bit of energy and tried to control the pace up the hill. I thought maybe I could move up the GC, but Hannah rode really, really well.”

While Nash has numerous stage and overall wins over her decade of racing BCBR, she was quick to credit Holcomb

“Most of us in the group threw everything we had at Ruth and every single day she came through. She is the deserving winner. Hannah stepped it up from two years ago, which is also really fun to see.”

While Nash has spent the last couple of years hinting that the competition is less than half her age, often, at this point, she wasn’t going to miss the 20th year, and final year in its original format. And she’s not done yet. Will she be back next year?

“I have no idea, ha ha. I love it and I’d love to be part of it in some capacity. But I’ve been thinking, racing as a team would be fun, or volunteering. So I’ll be back, but I just don’t know what that looks like yet.”

Team’s find the flow on Maple Syrup
BC Bike Race isn’t just a solo affair. In the team of two categories, riders tested legs and friendships out on course for seven days.

Dave Vunic and Cody Canning teamed up after several years of racing BCBR solo. That formula doesn’t always work, but the Rocky Mountain team thrived.

“I actually really enjoyed the team experience. I’m a team guy and I like working with a team. Cody’s a good teammate. We helped each other through when we weren’t feeling so strong, so it was good support.”

That said, Vunic arrived at the top of Maple Mountain well ahead of Canning. Apparently, there was a bit of miscommunication on Day 7 and Vunic was seen on Nino Schurter’s wheel leaving the start area.

“We both had yellow jerseys, we’re both really fast, so it’s an easy mistake to make,” Canning said with a laugh after.

“Cody’s so good on the road, he just pops into a group so easily, so I thought I’d better stick with the front guys,” Vunic explained.

“He missed the section where I said, ‘I’m sitting up on the grass, Dave!’” Cody added with a laugh.

Communication is key, folks. Still, the Rocky duo survived to win their team of two category.

“Dave’s a team guy, he’s a perfect teammate,” Cody added. “He’s always looking out for us as a group, not just what’s best for him.”

Swiss twins drop in on first BC Bike Race, and first XC experience
While racing with friends can test the strength of a partnership, racing with family is a whole different experience. BCBR’s seen several different versions of family duo’s over the years, but enduro twins might be a new one. Anita and Caroline Gehrig are former enduro pros that thrived in their first cross country experience, winning their team of two category.

“It was so fun to push beyond our limits, go with the flow and pedal hard. There’s really enjoyable trails over here, so all the ascending was so worth it. We always got treated to really nice single track, nice people around,” Anita Gehrig said of the week on the pedals.

Has BCBR fully converted them to cross country was

“Ha ha ha, let me recover first, and we’ll figure it out later.

Carolin is less convinced.

“I’m so excited to ride some chairlifts this summer!”

Surprisingly, considering the twin’s past, both picked Campbell River as their favourite stage of the week.

“That was super special to us, super green forest and endless singletrack. Wherever you looked there was another trail and there were no people around. Just magical forest full of sick trails,” Anita said.

From East to West for the Ultimate Singletrack Experience
In the 40+ women’s category, Jenna Salters travelled all the way from Atlanta, Georgia to take on the BC Bike Race. Her crew included her husband, two young children and her parents.

“They’ve been doing some really cool adventures while I’ve been riding!” Salter’s said.

After a mechanical on Day 2, Salter had to dig out of a 20 minute deficit to claim the yellow jersey on the penultimate day. On Maple, Salter cruised over roots and rocks, to hold on to the win.

“It’s very different. We have the Appalachian mountains, with lots of rocks and lots of roots for sure,” Salter said. “But I loved this. I’ve just always wanted to ride here, it’s been really cool to finally get to do it.”

Her favourite day so far? 

“Good question. I really liked Mount Tzouhalem, that left me with a big smile on my face.”

Friendships forged on singletrack
While only a few people win BC Bike Race, everyone out there is competing in one way or another. Whether you’re at the back or very close to the front, that rivalry has a way of forging friendships over seven days of racing. Rhys Nolan of Sydney, Australia and Bradley Wright from just down the road in Langford, Vancouver Island, spent the week battling for the top 10. By the end of the week, they’d spent so much time riding together they were being mistaken for teammates.

“After the first couple days you end up in a group that’s going back and forth depending on what suits who, it ends up being a fun battle and you get to know people. At the end of the day, you all had a sick day,” Wright said.

“Yeah, they’re like your buddies now, even if you’re racing against each other and want to break their legs, you’re also like helping each other, trying to catch the guys in front. That’s what mountain biking’s all about, it’s so much fun,” Rhys added.

It’s a long journey from Australia. What brought Nolan all the way to B.C.?

“I’ve always wanted to do this race. It’s been on my radar for years and I thought, now’s the year. I’m so glad I did it. The trails were breathtakingly beautiful and challenging at the same time. We just don’t get stuff like that at home. It’s an awesome event. I would do it again next week!”

The last year, before BCBR starts again
As we’ve mentioned, 2026 was the final year of the original 7 day BC Bike Race. But it’s not the end. After two decades, BCBR is going in a new direction in 2027, and tomorrow. While BC Bike Race wrapped up on Friday, BC Bike Fest was gearing up. Cross country, enduro, Mega Volt’s eMTB festival and even a downhill race are all happening this weekend at the Cowichan Exhibition grounds.

In 2027, BC Bike Race returns in a new 5-day format.

“Seven days is getting pretty hard,” multi-time BCBR champ Geoff Kabush said. “I’m kind of excited to hear we’re going back to Squamish. A little more technical trails there. And five days sounds a little more manageable for this old guy.”

Kabush is being modest. Even if he admits he “doesn’t have as many bullets to fight with the kids anymore,” the veteran racer finished 7th overall this week.

Change is always hard, we know. But if even BCBR veteran Geoff Kabush is excited, we can all get on board, right?

“There’s always something new at BC Bike Race. Even in Cumberland where I grew up, there’s always fresh trails. B.C. is kinda endless, so much to explore. This year, it was really cool to go back to Hammerfest and see the work Arrowsmith did to clean it up for us. I remember racing Andrew Shandro there back in the late 90s when he was cross training for DH. I don’t think those trails are still around, but it was fun to go back. And in Cumberland? None of those trails existed when I was a kid. It was all on the other side of the lake. It’s incredible to see how these communities have evolved and built up around those trail networks.

Here at BC Bike Race, we’re honoured to be a small part of that legacy. Honoured that these towns have welcomed our race family with open arms. And so very stoked to keep the party going in 2027. And yeah, registration is already open for the first five-day BC Bike Race.

2026 BC Bike Race Results: Day 7 – Maple Mountain

Open Women1st. Katerina Nash 1:49:00.7
2nd. Ruth Holcomb 1:49:01.7 (+1.0)
3rd. Hannah Simms 1:49:03.5 (+2.8)
4th. Sandra Walter 1:51:01.8 (+2:01.1)
5th. Maghalie Rochette 1:53:16.8 (+4:16.1)

Open Men1st.  Nino Schurter 1:24:30.2
2nd. Carter Nieuwesteeg 1:24:45.4 (+15.2)
3rd. Max McCulloch 1:25:14.9 (+44.7)
4th. Tobin Ortenblad 1:28:24.6 (+3:54.4)
5th. Justin Peck 1:29:08.6 (+4:38.4)

2026 BC Bike Race – Overall results 

Open Men 1st. Nino Schurter 11:18:37.46
2nd. Peter Disera 11:27:01.83
3rd. Carter Nieuwesteeg 11:31:27.68
4th. Max McCulloch 11:41:22.66
5th. Justin Peck 11:43:54.46

Open Women1st. Ruth Holcomb 14:14:44.21
2nd. Hannah Simms 14:24:18.55
3rd. Katerina Nash 14:25:22.88
4th. Sandra Walter 14:36:29.22
5th. Maghalie Rochette 14:51:21.23

Fox Timed DH – Overall Results   

Men 1st. Max McCulloch 19:29.2
2nd. Peter Disera 19:51.1
3rd. Geoff Kabush 19:52.5
4th. Nino Schurter 20:05.3
5th. Carter Nieuwesteeg 20:31.9

Women1st. Katerina Nash  21:53.0
2nd. Carolin Gehrig 22:10.3
3rd. Anita Gehrig 22:10.4
4th. Ruth Holcomb 22:18.5
5th. Maghalie Rochette 22:41.7

Full Results

As the old saying goes, sometimes you’re the hammer, sometimes you’re the nail. With nearly as much elevation as yesterday’s Cumberland queen stage crammed into fewer kilometres on course, Hammerfest hit some racers hard, just as the cumulative fatigue of three days of battling B.C.’s best singletrack did. As lush lower forests gave way to exposed, alpine-esque trails and arbutus bluffs, tire choice and smooth lines became crucial decisions. For others, the combination of sustained climbing and punchy elevation gains, were a knock-out blow. 

Nino Schurter drops the hammer 
In the men’s race it was, again, Nino Schurter going on the offensive. While Tobin Ortenblad was able to get position and restrain the G.O.A.T. for part of the lower climbs, once Schurter had open trail in front of him there was no holding him back. The Swiss rider crested Hammerfest’s high point with a 15 second gap on his closest rival, the resilient Peter Disera. 

“I did what I could but I didn’t get lucky like I did yesterday in terms of closing the gap on the descents. Every little punchy rise after that main downhill, he was standing and hitting it so hard,” Disera said after the race. “I held that 30 second gap for like 40 minutes. Eventually he squeezed out a little more.”

After Day 4 racing, Schurter earns a 48.7-second lead over Disera, the week’s first real separation in the men’s field. 

“We knew this was going to happen eventually. Now it has, so I can relax, which is nice,” Disera said. Even after a rough day at the office, the Canadian was stoked on a day spent touring Parkfest’s finest singletrack. “Hammerfest is sick. I mentioned it to Dre [Hestler] last year that this place is super underrated. Feedback so far is that this place is super sweet.”

Ethan Pauly thriving on B.C. trails 
Not far back from the battle for yellow, local Vancouver Island road and gravel racer Ethan Paully’s been mixing it up with the leader’s on the climbs all week. While everyone’s been hard pressed to hold Nino’s wheel on the descents, Pauly’s holding an impressive eighth overall after attacking Hammerfest’s steep climbs to finish seventh on the day. 

“It’s been fun using my road fitness on the climbs. The descents have been savage,” Pauly said of his first BC Bike Race experience. “I’ve noticed right away that through the week my skills have been improving a ton.” 

“One big thing for me is not hitting the descents out of breath. Now, when I hit the top I hold back just a little bit. I think that’s a basic skill everyone knows except for me,” Pauly added with a laugh. “That’s been huge.” 

Racers are racers though. When your fitness lets you climb with the top guys, it’s hard to hold back. Has the urge to use that road fitness to chase the top pros been hard to resist?

“100%. The first day, I was entering the trails with Nino, Carter and Peter. I learned very quickly that I have to set my own tempo a little bit. Then just focus and attack the trails.” 

Has a few days at BC Bike Race converted Pauly from drop bars to flat bars yet? 

“I’m pretty full-on mountain biking this week, I think! I’ll keep working on the skills and we’ll see what’s to come.” 

Without a doubt, anyone that finishes BCBR is a certified mountain biker. Now we just have to convince him to park the gravel bike in the garage for good and come back to BC Bike Race next year. 

Katerina Nash makes a bid for the crown 
Hammerfest delivered a serious blow to the women’s standings, with Katerina Nash breaking the race up on the extended climb and eating into Ruth Holcomb’s lead. . 

“She just flew up that climb and I couldn’t keep up,” Holcomb said after the stage.” I really enjoyed the lower trails today, the fresh cut sections and the timed DH were so good. The climb, I’ll be honest, I didn’t love. But we got to the top and it was a good ride down.“ 

For Nash, it’s the first BCBR stage win after the 2025 year of dominance from Sandra Walter. 

“I’m excited to take the stage win, I don’t think I’ve won a BC Bike Race stage in a couple of years. The group is strong and pretty close this year which makes it super exciting,” Nash said. The unofficial queen of BC Bike Race was thriving in the new location. “I didn’t know what was coming, which was nice. I didn’t have that memory, remembering dying up any of these hills from past years, so it was all fresh.”

A day earlier, it was the Santa Cruz racer opening up time on the field in Cumberland. The back and forth is making for thrilling viewing for the fans. 

“Yeah, I got some time yesterday, she definitely pulled back some time today. There’s a lot of time left, so I’m just taking it day by day. It’s just been really fun racing with her. She rips and she’s someone I’ve looked up to for a long time.” 

After the win, and time gains, Nash has an eye on the overall but, for now, is focusing on tomorrow. 

“It is what it is, we’ve still got a long way to go. I’m just trying to recover from day to day. I felt pretty good today, which means I probably won’t tomorrow,” Nash said with a laugh. 

Hannah Simms moves into GC podium position 
Behind Nash and Holcomb, the overall standings blew apart. Hannah Simms moved up past Sandra Walter while Maghalie Rochette’s rollercoaster BCBR continued with one of the day’s many flat tires. 

Simms was thriving on Hammerfest’s mix of steep climbs and tight, twisting descents. 

“It was really fun, the trails were so awesome. I think Parksville is a really underrated destination. I’ve done the Island Cup races here a few years ago, but I had no idea there was so much more up top,” Simms said after the ride. 

Despite loving the trials, Simms admitted she was, like many, also feeling the fatigue. 

“I had a slower start today and just kind of chipped away on that super long climb. When we hit the descent, it brought me back to life. It was so much fun. I just got in the groove, knowing the worst part was over for the day. That helped me mentally shift things.” 

Simms’ strategy, and stoke, are a good strategy for anyone else contemplating how they’re going to make it through the week.

“I’m definitely excited for the trails the next three days, when we go to Duncan. And then just eat all the carbs,” Simms added with a laugh. 

BC Bike Race moves south to Cowichan Base Camp 
While hump day at Hammerfest hit some racers hard, it came with good news. If you made it through today, you’re now closer to the finish line than the start. And BC Bike Race has three stellar venues on tap for the latter half of the week. 

That starts with a tour of the legendary trails of Mount Tzouhalem on Day 5. A shorter stage, at just 21.5km, any visit to the Tzou will still test riders fitness. But the reward for climbing A Grand Traverse is a thrilling mix of old school gnar and new-school flow. Rocky Ridge, Danalyzer, then Double D, Resurrection and a thrilling end on the Fox Timed DH of the day: Bumble Bee. What a way to finish a day.

2026 BC Bike Race Results: Day 4 – Hammerfest

Open Women1st. Katerina Nash 2:16:01.3
2nd. Ruth Holcomb 2:17:49.1 (+1:47.8)
3rd. Hannah Simms 2:18:48.3 (+2:47.0)
4th. Sandra Walter 2:20:18.6 (+4:17.3)
5th. Chloe Cross 2:32:01.7 (+16:00.4)

Open Men1st.  Nino Schurter 1:44:25.7
2nd. Peter Disera 1:45:14.1 (+48.4)
3rd. Carter Nieuwesteeg 1:50:20.3 (+5:54.6)
4th. Tobin Ortenblad 1:51:09.8 (+6:44.1)
5th. Justin Peck 1:51:25.5 (+6:59.8)

Day 2 – Overall Standings 

Open Men 1st. Nino Schurter 7:06:05.2
2nd. Peter Disera 7:06:53.9
3rd. Carter Nieuwesteeg 7:17:05.7
4th. Max McCulloch 7:21:32.3
5th. Justin Peck 7:23:04.0

Open Women1st. Ruth Holcomb 8:55:10.2
2nd. Katerina Nash 8:58:03.9
3rd. Hannah Simms 9:03:30.6
4th. Sandra Walter 9:04:37.5
5th. Maghalie Rochette 9:21:25.8

Fox Timed DH    

Men 1st. Peter Disera 1:39.8
2nd. Nino Schurter 1:39.8
3rd. Max McCulloch 1:41.0
4th. Geoff Kabush 1:41.2
5th. Lars Buengen 1:44.1

Women1st. Katie Spittlehouse 1:50.5
2nd. Katerina Nash 1:51.3
3rd. Carolin Gehrig 1:52.0
4th. Anita Gehrig 1:52.0
5th. Celeste Pomerantz 1:58.6

Full Results