Exciting New Chapter: Alex Howes and the Rise of Modern Adventure Cycling

Alex Howes, a familiar name in cycling, recently made his way to Bentonville, Arkansas, not just for the thrill of the fourth Big Sugar Classic gravel race but also to embark on a thrilling new journey in professional cycling. And guess what? He’s not focused on winning races anymore. Instead, Howes is diving headfirst into a new project that could redefine cycling in America.

New Beginnings in Bentonville

This year’s Big Sugar Classic had a different vibe for Howes. Usually a fierce competitor, he’s taken on the role of co-director for the newly-formed Modern Adventure Pro Cycling team, aiming for a UCI ProTeam license by 2026. Working alongside cycling legends George Hincapie and his brother Rich Hincapie, Howes is building something special. Notably, a travel company from Portland, Oregon, is stepping in as the title sponsor, indicating a bright future ahead.

“We’ve been working really hard the last four months,” Howes shared with Cyclingnews. While most cyclists are busy training, Howes admits that their focus on team building has pushed workouts to the back seat. “It’s super exciting to grow something and give young riders a shot,” he added.

The Road Ahead

Howes and his team have their eyes on meeting all the necessary UCI criteria to secure their license. They expect confirmation come December 10. “We’ve done everything right, and we’re ready to go,” he expressed with a mix of excitement and responsibility. The process involves a lot of teamwork and adaptability, especially since they aim to create an inclusive environment for budding cyclists.

The buzz isn’t just about the license; it’s about the riders too. Howes hinted that the team’s roster of 20 riders would soon be announced. With plans to participate in various races throughout the U.S., the team hopes to incorporate events like gravel races, which are becoming increasingly popular.

A Promising Schedule

The team’s race calendar is still taking shape. Howes has his sights set on iconic events, including the Philadelphia Cycling Classic, returning after a decade on August 30, 2026. He seems optimistic, “George has a lot of connections, and that’s working pretty well for us.” But he’s also realistic—there’s a lot to juggle, especially since none of the directors have crafted a schedule before.

They plan to balance races in the U.S. with events in Europe, Asia, and even South America. “Most of our races will be in Europe,” he clarified. This international flair adds to the excitement and diversity of the new team.

Final Thoughts

As Howes finished his fourth Big Sugar race—though it was shortened from 100 miles to 50 due to storms—he’s now settling into his new role as a full-time team director. His passion for cycling remains unwavering, but his focus has shifted to nurturing the next generation of cyclists.

For fans and fellow cyclists, Howes’ journey reminds us that racing is more than podium finishes; it’s about teamwork, passion, and growth. As we eagerly await the launch of the Modern Adventure Pro Cycling team, let’s find inspiration in their mission to support young talent and innovatively shape the future of American cycling. Who knows? The next big star could be riding alongside us soon!

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