Tyler Stites leads Modern Adventure Pro Cycling on US team's season debut on home turf at Redlands Bicycle Classic stage race

Modern Adventure Pro Cycling makes its season debut on home soil at the Redlands Bicycle Classic, held from April 8 to 12 in Southern California. The team is the sole UCI ProTeam in the men’s elite field, with three-time Redlands champion Tyler Stites returning to defend his status. Stites will face stiff competition from his former team, Project Echelon Racing, led by Tucson Bicycle Classic top performers Eric Brunner and Stephen Bassett, as well as defending Redlands champion Eder Frayre of L39ION of Los Angeles. L39ION of Los Angeles enters the race with a strong lineup, including Frayre, who made a notable season start with a silver medal in the Pan-American Road Championships time trial. The team also features stage winners Noah Granigan and Tyler Williams, alongside Jim Brown, who secured the Green Jersey last year. Justin Williams, founder of L39ION, highlighted the team’s commitment to diversity and opportunity, celebrating Frayre’s historic victory as the first Mexican overall winner at Redlands. The Redlands Bicycle Classic marks its 40th edition this year, maintaining its status as a key fixture in the American cycling calendar. The five-day event kicks off with the Lake Perris Individual Time Trial, followed by circuit races and criteriums that test riders’ versatility and endurance. The men’s and women’s races feature modified courses, including a new unpaved section on the Crafton Hills circuit and a traditional Sunset Road race finale that will decide the overall winners. The women’s field is also competitive, with 23 teams participating, including collegiate and composite squads. Former champion Emily Ehrlich leads the Blue Ridge TWENTY28 team, while Kira Payer returns to spearhead SpeedBlock p/b Terun. Notably, Lauren Stephens, a former USPro and Pan-American champion, makes her Redlands debut with Aegis x Leaders of Enchantment, adding further depth to the women’s competition. With a split squad competing simultaneously at major Spring Classics in Europe, Modern Adventure Pro Cycling’s focus on Redlands demonstrates their strategic approach to the season. Meanwhile, composite teams such as Team Unknown, led by former pros Joe Laverick and Michael Garrison, add an element of unpredictability and excitement. As the race unfolds, the blend of experienced champions and emerging talents promises a thrilling contest on home turf.