2026 Elgin Classic Bike Races

Professional and elite amateur competitive cycling returns to Elgin’s historic Northeast Neighborhood on Friday, July 24 through the 2026 Elgin Classic. Founded in 2017 as the Dennis Jurs Memorial Race, the race is part of Chicago Grit (formerly the Intelligentsia Cup), an established 10-day series hosting cyclists from around the world. The race will again be held on a criterium-style (shorter) course, which received overwhelmingly positive feedback from spectators and racers alike. Race organizers are expanding the festival portion of the event (food and beverage trucks/booths)

The race continues to honor Dennis Jurs, an Elgin cyclist killed on a training ride 2015, but has been renamed the Elgin Classic, after a bike race that Dennis helped organize and lead. The name change reflects the growth and broadening appeal of our race as we foster not only support for an active, healthy lifestyle but also focus on cycling education and safety.

Hosted by the Northeast Neighborhood of Elgin (NENA), the Elgin Classic takes advantage of one of Elgin’s historic districts and the generous space provided on Advocate Sherman Hospital’s former campus for a beautiful day for racers and spectators alike.

And the racing is just the beginning. Race day activities will include a Family Fun Ride and an expanded neighborhood festival in beautiful historic Northeast Elgin on and around the former Advocate Sherman Hospital Center Street campus.