Machine Competition
Description
Artisans, judges, and cycling enthusiasts are gathering in Maurienne! Between the Galibier, the Artisans’ Village, and the campsites, enjoy five days of meet-and-greets and activities to discover artisanal bicycles in a whole new way. A one-of-a-kind event you won’t want to miss!
Concours de Machines 2026 – Artisanal Bicycle Craftsmanship Put to the Test in the Alps
From September 23 to 27, 2026, the Maurienne Galibier region will host the Concours de Machines, an event dedicated to handcrafted bicycles, the expertise of frame builders, and innovation in the cycling world.
For five days, frame builders, an international jury, cycling professionals, enthusiasts, and the general public will gather in Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne and along the roads of Maurienne to put the bikes to the test in the Alps.
On the agenda: climbs up legendary mountain passes, trails, bike customization, camping, the Artisans’ Village, meet-and-greets, roundtable discussions, activities, and an awards ceremony.
More than just a competition, the Concours de Machines is an invitation to discover artisanal bicycles in a new light, to meet the people who design and build them, and to share a true collective adventure in the heart of the Alps.
- La Trace des Machines – Friday, September 25
Ride the Trace alongside the contestants!
The Trace is one of the competition’s major highlights. Participants set off on an adventure through the Maurienne region, passing notably through the legendary Télégraphe and Galibier mountain passes, as well as along trails that put the bikes to the test in various conditions.
Along the route, the bikes will have to demonstrate their versatility and ability to adapt to the terrain. Bike modifications, road sections, trails, and a campsite will punctuate this full-scale adventure.
The public and cycling enthusiasts are invited to come ride alongside the competitors and share in part of this experience.
Saturday, September 26 – The Big Public Event
On Saturday, the Concours de Machines will take place in the heart of Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne for a major open house event for everyone.
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Artisans’ Village
Come discover the bikes competing in the Concours, meet the bicycle artisans, frame builders, and equipment manufacturers, and explore their creations.
The Artisans’ Village offers a chance to speak directly with the people who design and build bicycles, to understand their techniques, their choice of materials, and their vision for cycling.
An immersion in a world where craftsmanship, creativity, innovation, and a passion for cycling come together. -
Discussions and Roundtables
Throughout the day, discussions and roundtables will explore various topics related to cycling and its evolution.
Bicycle craftsmanship, accessibility, inclusion, and new practices will be central to these discussions.
These discussion sessions will allow the public to meet the people who are shaping the future of cycling and helping to drive change in cycling practices. -
Cargo Bike Agility Challenge – 5:00 p.m.
At 5:00 p.m., it’s time for the Cargo Bike Agility Challenge!
A fun event that puts cargo bikes and their riders to the test through various scenarios requiring control, maneuverability, and agility. -
2026 Machine Competition Awards Ceremony
After the various events, the 2026 Machine Competition jury will announce the winners.
The awards ceremony will showcase the winning machines and honor the work of the artisans who participated in this year’s competition. -
Sunday, September 27 – The Artisans’ Village Continues
On Sunday, the Artisans’ Village will once again open its doors to the public in Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne.
This final day offers a chance to take your time exploring the machines in the competition, meet the artisans and exhibitors, discuss manufacturing techniques, and discover the many facets of handcrafted bicycles.
Whether you’re a bike enthusiast, a regular rider, curious about beautiful mechanical designs, or simply eager to discover unique craftsmanship, take advantage of this day to meet the artisans and explore their creations. -
New for 2026 – The OFF Contest spotlights cargo bikes
A major new feature of the 2026 edition: the OFF Contest, dedicated to cargo bikes.
There are two ways to participate, depending on your bike.
The OFF Contest
Do you own or have you designed a handcrafted cargo bike?
Enter the OFF Contest and put your bike to the test on the adventure route through the Maurienne region.
The OFF Adventure
Do you ride a mass-produced cargo bike?
Join the OFF Adventure to experience the Trail, the campout, and the group adventure alongside the participants—with no jury or rankings.
An accessible and friendly way to take part in the event and experience the Concours de Machines from the inside.
- Five days celebrating handcrafted bikes in Maurienne
Set against the slopes of the Galibier, the roads and trails of Maurienne, and the heart of Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne, the 2026 Concours de Machines offers a unique blend of mountain scenery and bicycle craftsmanship.
Whether you want to follow the bikes on the trail, ride with the participants, meet the artisans, discover unique bicycles, take part in discussions, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the Artisans’ Village, join us from September 23 to 27, 2026, in Maurienne.
An event open to both enthusiasts and the simply curious, offering a fresh perspective on artisanal bicycles.
Princing
Free access.