The Wheelbase Big Demo Weekend returns to Staveley on 21–22 March 2026, bringing the UK’s original and largest mountain bike demo event back to the heart of the Lake District.
The 2026 edition will bring together some of the world’s best mountain bike brands for one BIG weekend of mountain bike riding at our Lake District HQ in Staveley. There’s a huge fleet of mountain and e-mountain bikes available to demo on fully guided rides around the stunning Kentmere Valley.
Demo rides need to be booked in advance through our Big Demo website. There will be some slots available on the day but we can’t guarantee times or bikes until closer to the start times.
Demo bikes are £15.00 to book per ride.
Online bookings are still live ahead of this weekends event.
Book Now
More Information to follow. Speak to our Store Manager Bernie to get booked on.
441943 816 101
ilkley@wheelbase.co.uk
12 Gravel Bikes available and pre booking will be required.
Route to be confirmed but it will be a local loop from Wheelbase Ilkley.
4-8pm | Tuesday 28th April
Wheelbase is proud to headline sponsor Britains Premiere Sportive. Visit Fred Whitton Challenge For More Information.
The Wheelbase Hamsterley Demo Day returns to the North East on 16 May 2026, bringing a full day of mountain bike and e-MTB testing to one of the region’s most popular trail centres.
Riders can expect a packed schedule of guided demo laps on the latest bikes from leading global brands, in Hamsterley Forest. Booking details will be released soon, and demand is always high, so signing up to the Wheelbase mailing list is the best way to secure a slot.
Join the list now and be first to know when ride bookings go live for this one-day showcase of cutting-edge tech and trail-ready performance.
Wheelbase Lakeland Lanequest are fun and challenging cycle-orienteering events on 6 consecutive Tuesday evenings through June and July. First event will be 02/06/2026.
Suitable for all abilities, all ages, all bikes (including electric)– why not give one a go this year.
| Date |
Location Address |
Postcode |
What3Words |
Charity |
| 2 June |
The Club Inn, Main Street, Endmoor |
LA8 0EU |
elects.passions.handbags |
Bendrigg Trust |
| 9 June |
Rookhow |
LA12 8LA |
maker.submerge.clouding |
Rookhow |
| 16 June |
Sizergh Castle Café and Shop, Ashbank Lane |
LA8 8AE |
racks.performed.plotted |
Patterdale Mountain Rescue |
| 23 June |
Wilsons Arms, Torver, Coniston |
LA21 8BB |
perfected.encounter.magazine |
Friends of Thurston |
| 30 June |
The Tavern, Hale, Milnthorpe |
LA7 7BH |
clocked.umbrellas.overpower |
Parkinsons UK |
| 7 July |
Wheelbase, Staveley Mill Yard |
LA8 9LR |
watchdogs.comically.tarred |
World Bicycle Relief |
More information to follow.
Full details about the event are now available here.
The Staveley 3 Valleys Challenge is a timed charity mountain bike ridden on natural Lake District tracks and single tracks that starts and finishes in the South Lakes Bike Fest field close to Staveley village, this year with Long, Extra Long, Short, and Youth and Experience course options.
The routes traverse the Longsleddale, Kentmere, and Troutbeck Valleys, including Garburn Pass (Long and Extra Long courses only).
Originally organised in memory of a young mountain biker Sam Houghton, the event has previously raised over £200,000 for Cancer Research UK.
More Information | Tickets
Information about the South Lakes Bike Fest can be found below
South Lakes Bike Fest
Tour de Staveley Returns – Summer Cycling in the South Lakes, 11 July 2026
After a much-missed absence, the Tour de Staveley is set to return on Saturday 11 July 2026, rolling out once again from Wheelbase and back onto the quiet, rolling lanes of the South Lakes. This much-loved Lake District sportive promises everything riders remember from previous editions – challenging climbs, stunning scenery and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that celebrates the very best of summer cycling.
Those who rode the last event will remember blue skies, warm July sunshine and a packed field of riders enjoying classic Lakeland roads. The Tour de Staveley has always been about shared experience rather than outright competition, bringing cyclists of all abilities together to tackle iconic local climbs while soaking up big views and peaceful countryside. Expect steep efforts, shaded lanes, and plenty of moments that make all the winter miles worthwhile.
As before, riders can look forward to two route options, making the event accessible whether aiming for a steady summer challenge or a more demanding day in the saddle. The full Tour de Staveley offers a longer, hillier loop through the South Lakes, while the shorter route provides a perfect introduction to sportive riding in the Lake District.
A hallmark of the event is the finish-line atmosphere, with time to relax, refuel and share stories from the ride. Past editions have combined great food, Tour de France vibes and a welcoming social finish – a tradition set to continue in 2026.
With its mix of scenic routes, friendly organisation and proper Lakeland climbs, the Wheelbase Tour de Staveley 2026 is shaping up to be a highlight of the summer cycling calendar. Save the date, start the training, and get ready to ride out from Wheelbase on 11 July for a true celebration of cycling in the South Lakes.
More Information To Follow.
Wheelbase will be heading to the Ard Rock MTB Festival from 24–26 July, working alongside Burgtec on a dedicated stand throughout the weekend. Set against the iconic trails of the Yorkshire Dales, Ard Rock is one of the UK’s standout mountain bike festivals, making it the perfect place to connect with riders, showcase top-tier kit and soak up the festival atmosphere. Expect good vibes, quality components and plenty of MTB chat, with more information to follow soon as plans are finalised.
