Ring of Fire
📍 Oregon, USA
mtb
Date
26 September 2026
Distance
50 miles
Elevation
1,639 m
Difficulty
mtb
Prickly Pedal
Arizona, USA · 31 January 2027
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
The Prickly Pedal is a challenging 36-mile point-to-point mountain bike race across Arizona's desert terrain, featuring technical singletrack with rocks, sand, mud, and numerous steep climbs and descents. It offers a rigorous test for experienced riders through the Maricopa Trail.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 36 miles · 15 miles
- Elevation
- 847 m
- Surface
- singletrack, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 2.8–3.6
Rider fit
Who it's for
Experienced mountain bikers looking for a tough, technical challenge on varied desert terrain.
Who will struggle
Inexperienced riders or those unprepared for technical features, steep climbs, and varied surfaces like sand and mud will find this race very difficult.
Training focus
Training should prioritize technical bike handling skills, sustained climbing power, and endurance for varied off-road conditions including loose surfaces.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What are the available race distances and disciplines?+
The event offers two mountain bike distances: a 36-mile main course and a shorter 15-mile 'Half Pedal' sprint. There is also a 10-mile trail run option.
Where does the race start and finish?+
The 36-mile MTB race starts in Cave Creek and finishes at Lake Pleasant Regional Park. The 15-mile MTB race begins inside the Pioneer Living History Museum and also concludes at Lake Pleasant. All races finish at the 10 Lane Boat Ramp at Lake Pleasant Regional Park.
What kind of terrain can riders expect?+
The course features diverse desert terrain on the Maricopa Trail, including aggressive ascents and descents, flat sections, rocks, sand, mud, and roller coaster runs. Expect numerous short, steep, rocky climbs and descents, some requiring dismounting.
Are there aid stations and what do they provide?+
The 36-mile course has two aid stations near miles 15 and 30. The 15-mile course has one aid station. All aid stations provide water, electrolyte drinks, sweet and salty snacks, and fresh fruit. A main aid station with similar offerings is at the finish line.
What are the cutoff times for the races?+
All races share an overall cutoff time of 3:30 PM. The 36-mile MTB has a 7-hour limit from its 8:30 AM start. The 15-mile MTB has a 5-hour limit from its 10:30 AM start. The 10-mile trail run has a 6.5-hour limit from its 9:00 AM start.
Is this race suitable for beginners?+
No, the Prickly Pedal is described as a tough mountain bike race not suitable for inexperienced riders, due to its challenging terrain, aggressive climbs and descents, and technical sections.