2027 USA Cycling National Championships

Overview

A Grand Day Out is a fitting course for a national title: longer, hillier, and demanding from several directions. The route crosses much of the island and includes three substantial climbing tests—East a Hill, Switchback Hill, and West a Mountain—linked by fast roads, descents, and stretches where staying with a group is critical. The hardest climb will not necessarily determine the winner, because there is still racing to be done after the final summit.

This is where the skills tested throughout the National Series come together. Riders must have the endurance to stay competitive deep into the race, the climbing power to survive or create selections, and the tactical discipline to use the draft and protect their chances between climbs. A pure sprinter may struggle to make the final group; a climber who spends everything too early may be caught before the finish. Will a bold solo move hold, will a small group cooperate, or will a reduced bunch sprint decide the national champion? The jersey will go to the rider who can put all the pieces together on a Championship worthy course.