RCC Summit Bentonville

On the edge of the Ozark Mountains in northwest Arkansas, Bentonville is one of the world’s most exciting cycling destinations. For four days in October 2022, RCC members from across the globe gathered here to experience the best gravel routes this region has to offer, all while celebrating their club amongst friends.

WHY BENTONVILLE?

Boasting over 350 miles of natural surface trails and almost endless gravel roads, Bentonville is home to some of the best off-road riding found anywhere. Nestled amongst rich forests and rolling hills, the network of narrow roads and challenging trails forms a perfect playground of tarmac, gravel and singletrack. Having hosted some of the biggest races in the US and the 2022 World CX Championships, it’s a place of near endless off-road opportunities.

THE SUMMIT GALLERY

As the dust settles on our first ever gravel Summit, we’re looking back at the weekend that was – celebrating our club and the chance to come together in this beautiful riding location. Take a look at some of our favourite moments from four days of riding in the gallery below.

MEET THE RIDE LEADERS

ITINERARY

Day 1.

 

After arriving at our award-winning accommodation, we’ll get to building bikes and getting set for the weekend ahead. Rolling out in the early afternoon for a short orientation ride, you’ll get a chance to get to know the local area and turn the legs a little. In the evening, guests will gather for welcome drinks and a chance to get to know each other, followed by dinner and a welcome presentation.

Day 2.

 

Following an early breakfast at the hotel, we will head out for a day of exploring Northwest Arkansas’ scenic gravel roads. Heading to the east of town, riders will be treated to stunning views atop the bluffs overlooking Beaver Lake, before heading north for our lunch stop. Guests then have the choice of two routes, for those looking to maximise time on the bike, we’ll offer an extended version totalling nearly 100 miles. The other route will be direct back to Bentonville, where guests can relax or explore the area’s museums and attractions. After some time to unwind back at the hotel, some special guests will present over dinner, with insights about Rapha and the world of cycling.

Day 3.

 

Fueled by coffee and breakfast, we’ll head out for another day of gravel exploration. This time riders will depart west of town where they will be treated to long gravel roads that traverse the beautiful rolling hills that surround Bentonville. Lunch will once again be offered on-the-go, followed by the option to head back to town or continue on for more time in the Arkansas countryside. After a bit of time to unwind or explore the area, we’ll convene for a celebratory dinner at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

Day 4.

 

Those departing in the morning will enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel before departure. Guests with later departures can enjoy a relaxed morning, with an optional MTB ride or coffee tasting with the award-winning Onyx Coffee.

FOLLOW ALONG

Follow along on Instagram @rapha_rcc and @rapha_n_america where we’ll host weekend-long takeovers from Scotti Lechuga, ride leaders, and special guests.

JOIN THE CLUB

The Rapha Cycling Club is a global community bound together by its passion for cycling. With established chapters in the world’s most vibrant cities each hosting regular rides and events, you’ll never be far from a club ride. And alongside time on the bike, members enjoy exclusive Rapha products, access to award-winning OPEN hire bikes in all Rapha Clubhouses, and an active community of like-minded riders connected by the dedicated RCC app.


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