From twice-weekly group rides in Karen to monthly Critical Mass gatherings in Nairobi and Kitale, here are the free cycling events worth knowing about in Kenya.
Photo courtesy of Joy Riders Kenya
Last year, I finally bought my own bicycle to escape the hassle of rentals. As the newest "mfinyi" (a local slang for hardcore cyclist) in town with a full-sus Giant bike, my plan was to spend my Saturdays exploring Karura and Oloolua Forest. It made perfect financial sense, as I would only pay the 300 bob parking fee and save my usual rental money. It also spared me the frustration of getting stuck with an ill-fitting bike or one with terrible shifting for however long I had rented it.
However, I quickly realised that repeatedly riding at Karura or even Kereita can become boring pretty quickly, especially when you're cycling alone. In fact, the lack of variety and company can be enough to make some people give up on the sport altogether.
That all changed when I discovered a few local cycling communities that organise free rides to new destinations almost every weekend, and sometimes twice a week.
If you're looking to add some variety to your rides like I did, here are the ones worth knowing about:
Every Wednesday and Saturday · Karen Country Club · Free
Joy Riders Kenya runs two sessions a week from Karen Country Club, making it one of the most consistent riding options in Nairobi. Saturday mornings are the main event, with sessions running from 8am to 11am or later, depending on the route and the amount of fun you decide to have along the way. The Wednesday session runs from 6am to 8am. I would describe this midweek ride as a welcome break from the weekly grind, ideal if you live close enough to shower and make it to work on time.
Below is a post by Joyriders on one of their Wednesday rides.
Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DZZnLppCNEy/?img_index=1
No registration needed. Just show up with a roadworthy bike and helmet.
Every Sunday · Ruiru Bypass · Free
Thika Road MTBers have been running consistent weekly rides since early 2024, covering 100 kilometres or more every Sunday. I was introduced to the group by a friend and fellow writer, Grace Njoroge, early last year, and I have loved the community since. Rides start at Ruiru Bypass Main Stage bus stop along Thika Road and lean heavily toward mountain biking, with routes that regularly dip into off-road trails. A gravel bike can work, but an MTB with suspension will make a noticeable difference in comfort. The route changes weekly and is announced on their Facebook page closer to the date.
All fitness levels are welcome, though some base fitness helps given the distances involved. You can always turn back early if needed.
Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DYwQlHbuzXh/
No registration, no fee. Just show up with a helmet; it is mandatory, no exceptions.
Last Saturday of every month · Jeevanjee Gardens, CBD · Free
Critical Mass Nairobi is the city's biggest monthly cycling gathering, with hundreds of riders taking over the streets of Nairobi under the banner of #CyclistsLivesMatter. It's part community celebration, part advocacy for safer streets and greater visibility for cyclists on Kenyan roads.
The route follows "The Loop" through Nairobi's streets at approximately 30km. Riders gather from 8:30 AM with the ride departing at 9:00 AM sharp. The route is shared on the day. Bring snacks or pocket money for stops, and make sure your bike is road-ready before you leave home: brakes, chain, and tyres.
Since you're riding on streets and covering a relatively short distance, there is no bias towards any particular bike type. All bikes and all levels are welcome. I would argue this is one of the most accessible cycling experiences in Nairobi and a great first group ride for anyone nervous about keeping up.
Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DX6-zhWjCrK/?hl=en&img_index=1
One practical note: parking in the CBD on weekends can be a headache, especially if you encounter the self-appointed guardians of specific lots who expect a fee to "watch" your car. Factor that in, or better yet, ride there.
Monthly · Kitale Showgrounds · Free
Critical Mass has reached Kitale, and it's a welcome development. The format mirrors Nairobi's: a free community mass ride through the town's streets, open to all cyclists, friends, and families. The Scenic Loop runs from Kitale Showgrounds through Sibanga, Mailsaba, Maili Kumi na Moja, and Namanjalala before returning to the start.
The terrain is typical Kitale: relatively flat, gently rolling tarmac roads, cool air, and scenery that puts most urban rides to shame. Any bike type is welcome. Helmets are strictly enforced with no exceptions. Bring snacks and pocket money for stops.
One of the main forces behind Kitale Critical Mass is Ricky Sumbu, one of Kenya's most accomplished long-distance riders; he organised a 1,400km fundraising and awareness ride from Lodwar to Mombasa late last year. If the quality of rides reflects the people behind them, this one is worth the trip.
Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DZKBJtwkagf/?img_index=1
Kitale sits at 1,897m above sea level between Mount Elgon and the Cherangani Hills: cool, scenic, and increasingly active as a cycling town.
Free rides are not just limited to awareness campaigns or weekly group rides; several others are one-off events organised by cycling enthusiasts throughout the year. One such event was the recently concluded (7th June) TRM to Ekalakala (Masinga Dam) ride, organised by Steve Pianist on Facebook. 127 kilometres starting at TRM along Thika Road, through Thika town and Kilimambogo, along a scenic, relatively empty tarmac road all the way to Masinga Dam. I wasn't able to make it, but based on Steve's updates below, the ride looks like it was a good one.
Facebook Post
https://web.facebook.com/photo?fbid=27313072011716367&set=pcb.10168009893369657
Follow the Kenya cycling calendar so you don't miss the next one.
Helmets: Most rides require one, and Thika Road MTBers and both Critical Mass rides enforce this strictly. Bring one regardless; it's a must-have for any ride, even solo ones.
Bike condition: A free ride doesn't mean a casual one. Check your brakes, tyres, and chain before any group ride. Mechanicals mid-ride are your responsibility.
Route announcements: Weekly rides like Thika Road MTBers announce routes on the day via Facebook and other socials. Follow the relevant pages so you know what to expect.
Pace groups: Joy Riders run multiple pace groups so no one gets dropped. Critical Mass is deliberately slow and inclusive. Thika Road MTBers can push long distances; check the weekly post before showing up.
Water and snacks: None of these rides provide catering, aside from the Joy Riders chai stop at Karen Country Club. Bring enough water and food for the distance.
Know of a free ride we've missed? Get in touch and we'll add it.
Looking for more events to attend, regardless of entry fees? See the full Kenya cycling calendar →
Also on the site: Desmond's full-body workout program - good for the days your legs need a rest from the pedals.
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