Cycling Betting Guide (2024) | How to Bet on Cycling, and Win! 🚴🏼

Do you think it’s difficult to find information on cycling betting in the US? Think again! This article is your one-stop destination for all important information regarding betting on cycling.

The difference between seeing profits and losses with your bets on cycling can be as easy as understanding some key factors. First, we set out on our journey by examining where cycling betting is legal in the United States.

Key Takeaways

Grasp the types of cycling betting and how to bet on them.
Understand how the sport works and the intricacies of professional cycling.
Learn easy-to-follow betting strategies to implement in your routine.

Can You Bet on Cycling in the US?

Yes, betting on cycling is legal in US states that authorize sports betting. However, not every sportsbook offers cycling as a betting market so you’d need to check its availability on the sportsbook of your interest. We would also advise that you check whether the sportsbooks of your interest are exclusively online or have in-person locations too.

Sports betting laws in the US have been evolving since the 2018 Supreme Court decision allowing states to regulate it. As a bettor, it’s crucial to stay updated on your state’s specific rules and regulations. For more information, check our dedicated state-by-state guide to sports betting legality in the US.

How to Bet on Cycling: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cycling betting is an exciting spectacle as world-class athletes race through the streets and countryside to determine a winner. To make successful bets on that spectacle, there are numerous factors to consider:

Selecting a cycling betting site
Understanding cycling odds
Placing your bets

1. Selecting a Cycling Betting Site

Selection of your sportsbook: First and foremost, whichever cycling betting site you choose needs to be licensed in your state. You can check this with your state’s regulation entity, such as the Nevada Gaming Control Board or New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.

Another way to check a site’s legality is reviews and ratings from others to decipher the site’s reliability and find the site’s security features such as SSL encryption.

Once those factors are reviewed, the best cycling betting apps offer:

Wide range of events to bet on, including major events and national championships
Numerous betting options of all bet types
Competitive odds

Sign up for your sportsbook: To create an account with a site that fits you, sign up with your email and other personal information to verify your identity. You can then make deposits into your account to begin placing your bets!

2. Understanding Cycling Odds

Once you’ve created an account and made your deposit, you’ll start seeing many potential bets and their respective odds.

Cycling odds come in different forms depending on where you are. In the US, cycling odds are like moneyline odds in other sports, where negative odds refer to favorites, while positive odds signify underdogs.

Other types of odds include decimal and fractional, where the same rules apply: higher odds mean underdog and lower odds mean favorite.

By comparing odds across different sportsbooks and knowing how to interpret them, you can identify value bets where the odds are higher than the actual probability of the event occurring, leading to long-term profitability.

Example:

Rider A: 2.00 (decimal), 1/1 (fractional), -100 (moneyline) — considered the favorite.
Rider B: 5.00 (decimal), 4/1 (fractional), +400 (moneyline) — considered an underdog.

→ A $10 bet on Rider A at 2.00 odds would return $20 (including your stake), while the same bet on Rider B at 5.00 odds would return $50.

3. Placing Your Bets

When you’re ready to place your bets, start by finding the event and selecting the type of bet you want to make. Next, choose the cyclist you wish to bet on and enter your wager amount.

Most sites allow you to place multiple bets at once, tracking them on a bet slip that you submit when all your bets are set.

Most Popular Types of Cycling Bets

Cycling offers several types of bets, normally on cyclists and what events can happen in each race. The main cycling bets are relatively simple to understand but can be difficult to predict.

Outright Winner

Betting on the outright winner of cycling races is the most common bet type. Factors to consider here are race type, the lineup of cyclists in the race, previous race times, and weather conditions. Choosing one cyclist to win a race is not easy to predict, so finding value in the odds is important.

Stage Winner

Stage winners are slightly different because there can be multiple stage winners who do not win the event outright. Most major races are held over multiple days to create a final standing based on the finishes of each day. Stage bets can offer more specific ways to bet on cycling, including flat stages or mountainous stages that can play to certain cyclists’ strengths.

Stage winner bets can also yield higher payouts for underdogs winning, where bettors can get more creative with their bets since outright winners have fewer upsets.

Head-to-Head

Head-to-head refers to picking between two cyclists and determining who will finish ahead of the other. This type of bet has no bearing on where these cyclists finish overall, just where they finish compared to each other.

This type of bet can be interesting because you can zero in on two racers instead of factoring in the entire racing field.

Top 10 Finish

This bet type refers to choosing a racer to finish in the top 10 and eliminates the requirement of the other bet types where a racer has to finish first.

However, this bet type requires more research because you need a deeper understanding of the racers in the field and the race itself. If you’re willing to do the research, top 10 finish bets offer great chances of success.

King of the Mountains

The King of the Mountains (KoM) bet is picking which rider will accumulate the most points in the mountain stages of a multi-stage race. The “King of the Mountains” title is awarded to the rider who excels in the mountain climbs, earning the most points by being among the first to reach the summits of categorized climbs throughout the race.

The KoM bet is appealing to cycling fans who enjoy following the tactical and endurance aspects of mountain racing.

Best Young Rider

The Best Young Rider bet is on which young rider (under the age of 25) will achieve the best overall time in a multi-stage race. This classification is designed to spotlight emerging talent in the sport.

The Best Young Rider bet is popular among cycling enthusiasts who enjoy following the sport’s rising stars. It provides an opportunity to focus on the future of the sport and potentially identify the next big name in cycling.

Time Trials

Time trials are races where individual riders or teams race against the clock rather than directly against each other. The objective is to cover a set distance as quickly as possible. Trials can be held as standalone events or as part of a multi-stage race.

They test a cyclist’s endurance, speed, and pacing ability, often referred to as the “race of truth” because there’s no direct competition, and it’s just the rider versus the clock.

Futures

Betting on futures in cycling involves placing a wager on the outcome of a race or event that will happen in the future, typically before the competition begins. In cycling, futures bets usually focus on predicting the overall winner of a major event, such as the Tour de France.

These bets take on more risk because the odds are looser than the odds on the day of a race, but they can offer higher potential returns.

Live Cycling Betting

Live betting is betting on a race as it happens, offering a different level of excitement. Live betting is a fluid activity, with the odds of racers changing every instant based on what is happening in the race.

Advantage: The beauty of live betting is the opportunity to find incredible odds during a race that you would never find in pre-race betting.
Disadvantage: On the flip side, the unpredictability of live odds can trick bettors into certain situations that are not rewarding. Live betting also requires quick decision-making and laser-focus attention on the odds, which can leave bettors prone to mistakes and regretful decisions.

Major Cycling Events to Bet On

Cycling has two types of major events: tours and classics. Tours are multi-stage races that span several days or weeks, with each stage varying in terrain and difficulty. The overall winner is determined by the lowest cumulative time across all stages. Tours test endurance, consistency, and versatility across different race conditions.

Classics are one-day races, often held on challenging courses with iconic terrain, such as cobblestones or steep hills. Classics are intense, and strategic, and often feature unpredictable outcomes due to the high stakes of a single race day.

Tour de France

The Tour de France is the crown jewel of professional cycling and one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world. Held annually in July, this legendary race covers over 1,860 miles across France and occasionally neighboring countries.

Since its inception in 1903, the Tour has become more than just a race—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Millions of fans line the roadsides to cheer on their favorite riders, and millions more watch from around the world.

The yellow jersey (Maillot Jaune) is cycling’s most iconic symbol, awarded to the rider with the lowest overall time. The Tour also highlights other key competitions:

The green jersey for the top sprinter
The polka-dot jersey for the best climber
The white jersey for the best young rider

Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault are tied with five overall victories each, making them legends of the sport, while Chris Froome and Tadej Pogačar are among the modern stars, with multiple wins and thrilling battles that have captivated fans.

Giro d’Italia

The Giro d’Italia, often called the “Giro”, is one of cycling’s three Grand Tours. Held annually in May, the Giro is known for its challenging routes, dramatic mountain stages, and passionate Italian fan base. It’s a race that combines beauty, brutality, and tradition, offering plenty of excitement for fans and bettors alike.

The Giro d’Italia typically lasts three weeks, with 21 stages that vary in type and difficulty:

Flat Stages: Favor sprinters, often ending in high-speed finishes.
Mountain Stages: Feature grueling climbs in the Alps and Dolomites, where the race can be won or lost.
Time Trials: Individual races against the clock, testing riders’ speed and endurance.
Rest Days: Two rest days allow riders to recover during the race.

The overall winner is determined by the lowest cumulative time across all stages, earning the prestigious pink jersey (Maglia Rosa).

The Giro began in 1909 and is steeped in tradition, with iconic climbs like the Stelvio Pass and Mount Etna. The Giro is known for its unpredictable weather, with stages sometimes affected by snow or rain, adding to the drama.

Vuelta a España

The Vuelta a España, commonly known as the Vuelta, is the final Grand Tour of the cycling season, held annually in late summer. Often regarded as the most unpredictable of the three Grand Tours, the Vuelta is renowned for its steep, short climbs, relentless mountain stages, and scorching Spanish heat.

The Vuelta a España spans three weeks, typically featuring 21 stages that challenge riders across various terrains: flat stages, mountain stages with the Angliru and Covadonga, where the overall race is decided, time trials, and rest days.

The overall winner is determined by the lowest cumulative time across all stages, earning the red jersey (Maillot Rojo).

First held in 1935, the Vuelta is known for its steep gradients, with some climbs reaching inclines of over 20%, making it a true test of a rider’s climbing ability. The unpredictable nature of the Vuelta often leads to dramatic shifts in the general classification, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Like the other major cycling events, bettors can make:

Stage winner
Outright winner
Top 3 or 10 finish
Best young rider bets
Live betting, and more during the event

Cycling World Championships

The Cycling World Championships is the pinnacle of the sport, where the best cyclists from around the globe compete for the honor of wearing the coveted rainbow jersey.

Unlike the Grand Tours, which focus on individual or team performances over several stages, the World Championships are one-day events where national pride is on the line. Organized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), this event has been held annually since 1921 and is considered one of the most prestigious titles in cycling.

Regarded as the greatest cyclist of all time, Eddy Merckx won the World Championships three times, adding to his legendary status.

Peter Sagan made history by winning three consecutive World Championships (2015-2017), showcasing his incredible versatility and dominance.

Cycling Betting Strategies I Live By

Cycling is a tremendous sport to bet on, and there are strategies that make the experience much better. Improving your betting success in cycling requires a blend of research, strategy, and understanding of the sport’s nuances.

Analyze Rider Form

Look at how a rider has performed in recent races. Are they showing consistent form, or are they recovering from an injury? Riders who have been strong recently are more likely to perform well.

Some riders excel in certain types of stages or terrains. For instance, sprinters dominate flat stages, while climbers thrive in mountain stages. Check a rider’s history in specific races. Some cyclists have a knack for performing well in particular events, making them reliable picks.

Understand Race Conditions

Weather can significantly impact a race. Rain, wind, or extreme heat can create opportunities or challenges for certain riders. Crosswinds, for example, can split the peloton, favoring riders who can handle tricky conditions.

Different races require different strategies. In the Classics, expect aggressive racing from the start, while Grand Tours might see more tactical riding. Understanding how a race typically unfolds helps in predicting outcomes.

Find Picks and Predictions

Follow professional analysis and experts’ cycling picks from reputable sources. Cycling analysts often provide valuable insights into rider form, race conditions, and team dynamics.

Engage with online betting communities and forums where enthusiasts share tips, insights, and predictions. These can provide different perspectives and help you spot potential opportunities.

Consider Team Dynamics

A strong team can protect their leader, control the pace, and set up for key attacks or sprints. Consider how well-supported a rider is by their team when making your picks.

Be aware of each rider’s role within their team. A domestic might sacrifice their chances for a team leader, while a protected rider is the one going for victory.

Track Injuries and Fatigue

Keep an eye on injury reports and news updates:

A rider recovering from an injury might not be at full strength, affecting their performance.
A tired player is bound to give less of himself than a player full of energy; especially at decisive moments in the race.

Leverage Bonuses at Betting Sites

Many betting sites offer welcome bonuses and promotions on cycling betting for new users. These can provide extra value and allow you to place more bets with less risk.

These betting sites also reward regular bettors with bonuses or enhanced odds. Taking advantage of these can boost your potential returns over time. Keep an eye out for promotional offers during major events, which can include:

So, Are You Ready For Some Cycling Betting Tonight?

Cycling is a great sport providing great gambling opportunities, with plenty of interesting events to bet on and great betting options to choose from. Now that you’re equipped with the most important information surrounding cycling betting, why not learn more about sports betting in general? Our Sports Betting Education page has a lot to offer!