You will find all the information you need to take part in the Metropolitan Challenge on this page, which will be updated right up to the day of the event. Come and visit us again.
Date: May 24, 2026
Departure point: Jean-Bouchard Amphitheatre in Mirabel
Timetable and meeting point
Join us on May 24, 2026, in front of the Jean-Bouchard Amphitheatre in Mirabel., at the time you choose when you register.
Four parking lots are available (free parking):
P1: 17750 Rue du Val d'Espoir, Mirabel, QC J7J 1X7
* Please note the 61 km route does not include the lunch stop. If you choose this route on the morning of the Challenge when you had chosen to take your lunch at the lunch stop, go to the Vélo Québec INFO booth to obtain a grey bracelet.
Service
At the start site and lunch stop : toilets, water, Sport Expert mechanical services, first aid, information kiosk, entertainment.
At the ravito stop : water and toilets.
On the course Sports Expert mechanical services, first aid, supervision, cycling coaches.
Arrival : Cyclists will return to the start/finish site from 11 am to 6 pm. Music, canteen, café, bistro - Microbrasserie Siboire, booths to visit (Shokz, Lufa, PRMTM) and Sports Expert mechanical tent will be on hand!
Your preparation
The better prepared you are, the more fun you'll have at the event. Go at your own pace and, above all, have fun!
Equip yourself properly
Bring equipment for all conditions (raincoat, windbreaker, long shorts, overshoes, sunscreen, helmet or cap, goggles, etc.). If you have to leave equipment in the car, it's better to bring more than less.
Go at your own pace
A minimum of stretching and warming up is beneficial for many people. Take 10 minutes to loosen up your muscles. It can only do you good!
If this is your first major outing of the season, curb your enthusiasm at the start and save some for last. Start off gently.
Of course, we strongly recommend that you plan a few outings before the Metropolitan Challenge, including one of a similar distance.
Fill up on energy
The distances involved in the Metropolitan Challenge are relatively long, so it's important to prepare properly. The night before, have a hearty supper, preferably carbohydrate-based (the famous pasta!). In the morning, don't go against your usual routine: have a good breakfast.
Eat and drink regularly before you feel hungry or thirsty: it's your fuel and the secret to getting to your destination!
Don't just rely on convenience stores along the route. Pack two water bottles and fill your pockets (or panniers) with snacks such as energy bars and gels, cookies, fresh or dried fruit...
Mechanical help
At the start site and lunch stop, a mechanical breakdown service is available to correct minor problems (punctures, adjustments, etc.). However, this service is not equipped to handle major repairs.
The cost of replacement parts, if any, is at the participant's expense.
Support vehicle
If you can't make it through the day, you can take your bike with you in a support vehicle.
Don't hesitate to use it if you have a serious problem, but note that it's an emergency service, not a cab.
On the road
Vehicles (mechanics, support, motorcycle first aid) will be on hand to help you in case of a problem. You'll also come across certified bike framers - first-aid certified and qualified to carry out mechanical repairs. All Vélo Québec-approved vehicles are also able to offer you water.
If you need help, just give us a thumbs-down.
A few instructions on the road
During the Défi métropolitain, roads are open to vehicular traffic. As a road user, you must therefore comply with the Quebec Highway Safety Code. In addition to the usual rules (traffic lights, stops, etc.), it's important not to drive four wide, but in line on the right-hand side of the road.
We also recommend that you take a look at our cycling rules.
Cycling and courtesy
Every year, many municipalities and their residents welcome us along our routes with warmth and enthusiasm. To leave them with a good impression, we ask you to be civic-minded and courteous on the road at all times. A pretty apple tree, a shady flowerbed or a garden hose are always tempting, but they certainly belong to someone! Thank you for respecting private property.
Beaconing
The route is signposted. These signs will also indicate the presence of various service points (toilets, refreshments, lunch stops, water, etc.). Any last-minute detours will be indicated by DETOUR signs.
Closing time for options
Optionals indicate a closing time so that all participants can cross the finish line before 6 pm. In addition to being indicated on the course sign at the start of the optional course, closing time information is also provided on maps, where applicable.
Getting to the Festival with Transit
Plan your route to the start of the Metropolitan Challenge with Transit!
Whether you come by public transport, bicycle or a combination of both, Transit offers you the best routes in real time to get you to and from your departure points with ease.
