FOUR ROUTE OPTIONS AVAILABLE INCLUDING NEW 12-MILER
November 20, 2025. Louisville, KY. – Wheels up! Registration for the Kentucky Derby Festival’s annual cycling experience opens at 10 a.m. TODAY, Thursday, November 20. The PNC Tour de Lou, a tradition that has brought the cycling community together for more than a decade, is set for Sunday, April 12, 2026. Highlights of the 2026 event are a new Start and Finish, the debut of a 12-mile route, and the addition of a 25-mile option. Riders will receive special early-bird pricing through the end of the year when they register at KDF.org/TourdeLou.
“We can’t wait to hit the road for another PNC Tour de Lou! With four routes to choose from in 2026, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned cyclist,” said Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival President & CEO. “Each spring, the event gives cyclists from across the country new ways to experience Louisville and celebrate our favorite time of year.”
PNC Bank returns as the Title Sponsor of the PNC Tour de Lou for the 12th consecutive year.
“The PNC Tour de Lou captures the brilliance of Louisville in many ways – from highlighting regionally meaningful places and community traditions to supporting local businesses and healthy lifestyles,” said Kristen Byrd, PNC regional president for Kentucky. “All of us at PNC look forward to welcoming Louisvillians and visitors alike to the PNC Tour de Lou course in 2026.”
Course Highlights
The Start and Finish Line will have a new home at Big Four Lawn, adjacent to the Big Four Bridge, and will offer riders scenic views of the waterfront as they kick off and finish their rides. The new location will also offer a picturesque setting for the post-ride party, where participants will be presented with their finisher medals.
Cyclists will enjoy a ride that showcases Louisville’s rich history and charm, featuring views of iconic Louisville landmarks, historic spots, attractions and picturesque parks along the way. Plus, riders of the 35-mile route and the Metric Century will get to experience the sights and sounds of the trendy NuLu neighborhood. Full course and route details will be released soon.
Ride Options
Cyclists can choose from four separate cycling distances ranging from 12-to-62 miles. The new 12-mile route is the ideal introduction for beginners and welcoming first-time riders to be part of the event. The former 20-mile route has been expanded to 25 miles to allow riders of varying distances to stay together longer and enhance the overall ride experience.
In addition to spectacular views, participants of all route options will enjoy expert support throughout the ride. All cycling distances will be an open course, following the rules of the road, with no streets closed. Trained Support and Gear (SAG) crews, law enforcement and medical professionals will be on hand to help ensure a smooth, safe and enjoyable experience. Rest stops are located every 10-12 miles and are stocked with hydration, nutrition and other amenities.
Distances and pricing options include:
• 12 Miles – Ideal for beginners or those new to cycling ($50)
• 25 Miles – Ideal for beginners to intermediate ($50)
• 35 Miles – Ideal for moderate/experienced riders ($60)
• 62.1 Miles (Metric Century) – Ideal for advanced riders or those looking for a challenge ($70)
Prefer to ride on your own schedule? Join our Virtual Ride! Choose your preferred distance, ride at your own pace, follow your favorite route, and spread your miles over multiple days. Available for all distances ($40).
No Bike? No Problem!
For those who’d like to participate but don’t own a bike, Scheller’s Fitness & Cycling will offer rentals in advance for the PNC Tour de Lou. Participants can choose from a Road Bike or a Hybrid bike. Click here to rent!
Cyclist Perks
Participants of the 2026 PNC Tour de Lou will take home a medal, an event shirt and can join the fun at the post-ride party. All finishers will also receive a sweet treat and enjoy live entertainment as they cheer on fellow cyclists at the Finish Line. Plus, riders (ages 21 and older) will be able to celebrate with a post-ride beverage.
Riders who register by midnight Wednesday, Dec. 31 will receive special early-bird pricing.
Free Training Program
To help participants gear up to cycle around the city, a free six-week training program produced by the Louisville Bicycle Club will be open to cyclists of all experience levels. Six rides, taking place at noon on Sundays from Feb. 22 through March 29, 2026, will offer training tips, including hand signals, rules of the road and nutrition information. All training rides will take place at noon and begin at the Waterfront Park Yellow Parking Lot on River Road. In addition to a bicycle, all riders must bring a helmet. The first 250 participants to register for the Training Program will receive a free training shirt.
Registration for the PNC Tour de Lou Training Program also opens today (Thursday, November 20). Registration is available at KDF.org/TourdeLou.
Participant Support
Baptist Health ER & Urgent Care, the Official Health Partner of the PNC Tour De Lou, returns for the 2026 ride and will be onsite providing hydration and first aid services, offering health information and passing out swag to participants. For more information and to register for the ride or training program, visit KDF.org/TourdeLou.
Title Sponsor: PNC Bank. Official Health Partner: Baptist Health ER & Urgent Care. Official Nutrition Partner: Kroger. Contributing Sponsor: Scheller’s Fitness & Cycling. Supporting Sponsors: Louisville Bicycle Club and Louisville Water Company. Media Sponsors: 102.3 The Rose and ALT 105.1.
