After the huge success of Rider of the Year 2024, MBUK, BikeRadar and Cycling Plus return in partnership with bicycle accessories brand, Lezyne, for a third edition of the coveted awards – and we want your nominations.
We’re asking you to submit your suggestions for each of the three mountain bike and road categories – Rider of the Year, Newcomer of the Year and Lifetime Achievement.
From your suggestions, our panel of expert judges will create a shortlist for Rider of the Year and Newcomer of the Year to be put to a public vote, while an expert panel from each brand will decide the Lifetime Achievement winners.
Winners will be announced in issue 440 of Cycling Plus, on sale 19 December 2025; issue 455 of MBUK, on sale 30 December 2025; on Instagram and Facebook; and at a live awards ceremony in November 2025.
You can submit your suggestions via the below links or form until 21 August.
Here’s a reminder of each Rider of the Year category’s entry criteria.
MBUK Rider of the Year Award
We’re looking for the mountain biker who’s had the most significant impact or made the biggest difference in 2025, whether through competing (amateur or professional), taking part in an event or adventure, leading a group or community, or any other contribution to the sport we love.
MBUK Newcomer of the Year Award
The same criteria apply, but we’re after someone who wasn’t a big name in 2024, and maybe still isn’t. Or perhaps they were well-known within certain circles but have now broken through to the big time. They don’t have to be young or new to the sport, but should have been unfamiliar to most MBUK readers prior to 2025 and must have done something this year that deserves recognition.
MBUK Lifetime Achievement Award
This one’s self-explanatory – the winner will be a veteran of the sport and someone who’s regarded as an absolute legend, either by mountain bikers as a whole or just those in the know.
Cycling Plus Rider of the Year Award
We’re looking for the cyclist who has made a significant impact this year, whether through competing at an amateur or semi-pro level, taking part in an event or adventure, leading a group or community, or any other contribution to the sport of cycling.
Cycling Plus Newcomer of the Year Award
The same criteria apply, but we’re after someone who wasn’t a big name in 2024, and maybe still isn’t. They don’t necessarily have to be young or new to the sport, but they will have done something special this year that deserves recognition.
Cycling Plus Lifetime Achievement Award
This one’s pretty self-explanatory – the winner will be a veteran of the sport and someone who’s known as legendary for their club contributions, epic cycling efforts or work in the cycling community.
You have until 21 August to make your suggestions, using this form, and we’ll then draw up shortlists.
