Honolulu Century Ride 2025 — Quick Report “With every pedal stroke, Hawaii embraces you in a way you’ve never known.”

September 28, 5:45 a.m.
At Kapiolani Park, along Waikiki Beach in Honolulu.
Less than 30 minutes before the start, the area around the start zone was filled with cheerful greetings — “It’s been a year! How have you been?” “Let’s take it easy again this year!” — as if old friends were reuniting.
There were also conversations celebrating new encounters: “He’s finally joining for the first time this year!”

Though it was still dark and faces were barely visible under the event lights, the atmosphere was bright and full of energy.
It felt like everyone was celebrating the chance to set off on their annual reward — riding through Honolulu.

Global Ride’s Communication Director **Daisaku Kawase**, chatting with riders.
He joined the 50-mile (80 km) course this year.
Now in his third consecutive year, he’s developed many connections — one of HCR’s unique charms.

Greeting familiar riders again — that moment when joy wells up as morning light returns and you see them once more.

Departing with the sunrise is a Honolulu Century Ride tradition.
This year, over **1,200 riders** joined, with about **300 participants from Japan**, each tackling their chosen course.

Riders radiating happy energy from the early morning.

This year’s weather was on their side.
Daytime temperatures reached around 34°C (93°F) with 52% humidity — a bit warmer and more humid than usual, but there wasn’t a single drop of rain during the event.
Even if it rains, riders can still feel the joy of Hawaii through the experience — but this year’s clear skies carried special meaning.

A perfect Honolulu Century Ride day — endless sunshine and a deep blue ocean.

That meaning was the newly reopened Hanauma Bay Route.
It had only been permitted once before by state police, but due to its winding descent, narrow roads, and heavy traffic, it had remained closed since.

However, thanks to persistent efforts by the Hawaii Bicycling League, the section was closed to vehicle traffic and opened exclusively for the event this year — and the beauty of that route was absolutely breathtaking.

A reverse-angle view down the Hanauma Bay descent — a truly spectacular scene!
Stay tuned for our detailed report.

From the very start, the 2025 Honolulu Century Ride was the kind of ride that makes you want to shout, “I’m so glad I came!”
(In fact, many riders did just that — or let out wordless sounds of delight.)
It was a truly unforgettable day.

Detailed ride reports from 100-mile (≈160 km) and 50-mile (≈80 km) riders will follow soon.

Just past 5:00 a.m. — riders gathered at the VIP tent beside the start gate, enjoying light refreshments.

Breakfast in the VIP area was catered by renowned hotels.

Sunrise over Diamond Head — one of the ride’s first scenic highlights.
No matter how many times you see it, you can’t help but take another photo.

The rugged Hawaiian mountains, shaped by wind and rain.
The route winds around these giants before running along the sparkling coast.

Refueling at an aid station — conversations blooming among friends.

**Manana Island**, known locally as *Rabbit Island*, seen from Makapu‘u Point.
It’s said to resemble a rabbit poking its head above the water.

Guest rider **Taro Shirato**, joined by **LOVECYCLIST** members **Taz Shimizu**, **Saad**, and **Anna**.

The route through Kapiolani Park — surrounded by Hawaii’s bold and beautiful natural scenery.

A quick rest — and the perfect photo spot.

Just before the 80 km finish line lies the “Reward Route” — the stunning **Waimanalo Beach** stretch.

The **BRIC by TOKYO** team, who completed both the 160 km and 80 km courses together.

Though a light shower fell at the finish line in the afternoon, the 2025 Honolulu Century Ride was blessed with clear skies almost all day.
Stay tuned for the upcoming full photo album from the event.

This year, Daisaku Kawase, Global Ride’s Communication Director, and Editor I joined the event — both riding Brompton bikes!
They completed the 80 km course without electric assist.
Their Brompton Ride Report will be shared soon.

Team Global Ride — flying through 80 km on compact Brompton city bikes!

The Honolulu Century Ride is a fun ride —
every rider has their own way to enjoy it.

How was your ride journey this year?

Upcoming Honolulu Century Ride 2025 Articles

🚲 80 km Family E-Bike Journey with Elementary School Daughters
🚲 Brompton Challenge — 80 km Across Honolulu
🚲 Gravel Bike Adventure — 160 km of Perfect Hawaiian Roads
🚲 First Century Ride — 160 km with Road Bike Friends
🚲 Two Old Friends & Local Eats — Turning Everyday Food into Honolulu Gourmet, 160 km

Text & Photos: Global Ride Editorial Team