The high-stakes world of professional cycling returns to southern California this week as the 40th edition of the Redlands Bicycle Classic kicks off. Leading the charge for Modern Adventure Pro Cycling is three-time Redlands champion Tyler Stites, who returns to the race to spearhead the team’s season debut on home soil. The event, running from April 8-12, promises a fierce clash of domestic and international talent in one of the region’s most prestigious stage races.
Modern Adventure Pro Cycling enters the competition with a significant advantage in pedigree, arriving as the only UCI ProTeam in the men’s elite field. For Tyler Stites, the race is more than just a season opener; it is a confrontation with his own history and his former teammates. Stites will face off against Project Echelon Racing, a team led by the formidable Tucson Bicycle Classic one-two General Classification (GC) duo of Eric Brunner and Stephen Bassett.
The atmosphere in Redlands is electric as riders navigate the challenging terrain, which began with the Lake Perris Time Trial. With a mix of veteran champions and hungry newcomers, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be a defining moment for the teams looking to establish dominance early in the racing calendar.
Modern Adventure Pro Cycling: A UCI Powerhouse Returns
The presence of Modern Adventure Pro Cycling as a UCI ProTeam elevates the professional profile of the Redlands Bicycle Classic. By bringing a high-level structural organization to the men’s elite field, the team provides a benchmark for the other domestic squads competing in the race.
Tyler Stites is the focal point of the team’s strategy. As a three-time champion of the event, Stites possesses an intimate knowledge of the courses and the tactical demands of the Redlands terrain. His objective is clear: leverage his experience to secure another victory while debuting the capabilities of the Modern Adventure Pro Cycling roster on American soil.
L39ION of Los Angeles: Defending the Home Turf
While Modern Adventure Pro Cycling brings the UCI ProTeam status, L39ION of Los Angeles brings the momentum of a defending champion. Eder Frayre, who secured the General Classification victory last year, returns to defend his title. Frayre is not alone in his pursuit; he is supported by a deep roster including Jim Brown—the previous year’s Green Jersey winner—as well as Noah Granigan and Tyler Williams, both of whom have a history of winning stages at Redlands.
For L39ION of Los Angeles, the race is deeply personal. Justin Williams, the founder of the program, describes Redlands as essentially a home race, noting that the team has participated every year since its inception. The program has a storied history in the event, with previous stage wins credited to riders such as Cory Williams, Tyler Williams, Noah Granigan, Skylar Schneider and Holly Breck.
Key Contenders and the Women’s Field
The competition extends beyond the defending champions and UCI ProTeams. Project Echelon Racing remains a primary threat to the GC lead, relying on the strength of Eric Brunner and Stephen Bassett to disrupt the plans of Stites, and Frayre. The tactical battle between the former teammates of Stites and the current L39ION squad is expected to be a central narrative of the stage race.
In the women’s elite category, the return of Emily Ehrlich is one of the most anticipated storylines. A former winner and two-time stage winner, Ehrlich is representing Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28. Her experience and previous success at Redlands develop her a standout favorite as she looks to reclaim her position at the top of the podium.
Race Summary and Key Participants
| Team | Key Riders | Notable Status/Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Modern Adventure Pro Cycling | Tyler Stites | Only UCI ProTeam in men’s elite field; Stites is 3x champion |
| L39ION of Los Angeles | Eder Frayre, Jim Brown | Defending GC Champion (Frayre) and Green Jersey (Brown) |
| Project Echelon Racing | Eric Brunner, Stephen Bassett | Tucson Bicycle Classic one-two GC duo |
| Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 | Emily Ehrlich | Former winner and two-time stage winner (Women’s) |
As the race progresses through its scheduled dates of April 8-12, the focus will shift from the opening time trials to the grueling stage finishes. The combination of L39ION’s local dominance and Modern Adventure Pro Cycling’s professional infrastructure creates a compelling dynamic for fans of road racing.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the event is the continuation of the stage race through April 12, where the final General Classification standings will be determined.
Do you think Tyler Stites can secure a fourth title, or will Eder Frayre maintain his hold on the crown? Share your thoughts in the comments below.