More than 500 riders took part in Bike Oxford 2026, helping the annual cycling event raise over £40,000 for a record 24 charities across Oxfordshire.
Bike Oxford 2026, powered by Penningtons Manches Cooper, took place on Sunday, June 21, offering riders a choice of scenic routes through the county while supporting a wide range of local causes.
The event was supported by Royal Cars, Invivo Healthcare, Biddulph Wealth Management, Decathlon Oxford, Cowley Road Condors Cycling Club, the B4 business community and The Oxford Cheese Company.
Funds were raised through individual donations, sponsored riders backed by friends, family and colleagues, and charity places organised by Iconic Cycling Events. The model is designed to help participating charities reduce the cost and administration of recruiting their own fundraisers.
Sobell House Hospice led this year’s fundraising effort as Bike Oxford’s title charity partner, marking its 50th anniversary in 2026. The hospice will return as title charity partner when the event takes place again on Saturday, June 13, 2027.
Other supported charities worked across mental health, grief support, cancer research, animal welfare and community services throughout the region.
The weekend also included a CyclAbility session at Horspath Athletics Track on Friday, June 19, giving cyclists of all abilities the opportunity to ride in an inclusive environment. The session was attended by Oxford’s Lord Mayor, Chewe Munkonge.
Richard Best, founder of Iconic Cycling Events, said: “Raising more than £40,000 for a record 24 charities is something everyone involved with Bike Oxford can be incredibly proud of. Every rider, volunteer, supporter and sponsor has played a part in helping charities continue their vital work across Oxfordshire.”
Niki Wardell-Yerburgh, senior relationships fundraiser at Sobell House, added: “A huge congratulations to everyone who took part in Bike Oxford, with an extra special shout-out to our incredible team of 32 riders who absolutely smashed it. Together, this incredible group raised £18,577 for Sobell House.”
Since its launch, Bike Oxford has become one of Oxfordshire’s established charity cycling events, combining local routes with a fundraising platform for community organisations.
Cathryn Setz, Bike Oxford champion, said: “Cycling is for everyone, and events like Bike Oxford show how they can help riders build confidence and achieve goals, while also demonstrating the impact they make for the local community.”
Planning is now underway for Bike Oxford 2027, with organisers aiming to support even more charities next year.
