If you think anime and bicycles don’t go together, think again! Cycling anime is an underrated but exciting subgenre of sports anime that captures the freedom, determination, and camaraderie of life on two wheels.
Whether it’s high-stakes races or relaxing journeys through scenic landscapes, these shows bring a unique blend of action, emotion, and inspiration that’ll have you hooked.
What’s great about cycling anime is how versatile it is. Some series dive into intense competitions, while others focus on the joy of casual riding and personal growth. They’re not just about the pedals and gears but the heart and spirit behind each ride.
Ready to explore this hidden gem of anime genres? Let’s take a closer look at some of the best cycling anime out there!
What is Cycling Anime?
Cycling anime is a delightful subgenre of sports anime that revolves around the exhilarating world of bicycle racing, casual rides, and the occasional adventure.
At its core, cycling anime captures the heart-pounding thrill of the open road, the challenge of steep climbs, and the strategic battles of competitive races.
Unlike other sports anime, this niche brings a unique mix of physical endurance, mental fortitude, and an undeniable sense of freedom as characters navigate scenic routes and overcome personal hurdles.
What makes cycling such a compelling theme is the universal appeal. Whether you’re into sports or not, cycling anime taps into something primal: the joy of movement, the feeling of wind in your face, and the sense of accomplishment from pushing past your limits.
Beyond that, these stories often weave in themes of teamwork, personal growth, and camaraderie. Watching a protagonist power through impossible challenges can leave you feeling inspired to grab your own bike (or at least cheer from the sidelines).
How Do We Rank Cycling Anime?
Choosing the best cycling anime is not hard, we considered several key factors:
- Story and Themes: Does the narrative keep you hooked? Whether it’s an underdog rising to glory or a relaxing journey through scenic landscapes, a strong story is essential.
- Character Development: Memorable characters are the soul of any good anime. We looked for series where characters evolve meaningfully, both on and off the bike.
- Depiction of Cycling: While I’m not a cyclist expert, authenticity matters! From showcasing realistic cycling techniques to capturing the sport’s emotional highs and lows, we valued shows that truly understood the cycling world.
- Overall Experience: Lastly, the anime needed to deliver an enjoyable experience. Whether it’s through humor, stunning visuals, or edge-of-your-seat races, these series had to stand out.
By keeping these criteria in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top cycling anime that balances excitement, inspiration, and heartfelt storytelling.
Best Cycling Anime
Cycling anime is a genre that doesn’t get as much attention as others, so there aren’t too many titles to choose from.
Here are some cycling anime titles that we consider the best, capturing the spirit and excitement of cycling:
- Yowamushi Pedal
- Over Drive
- Idaten Jump
- Nasu: Summer in Andalusia
- Long Riders!
- Minami Kamakura High School Girls Cycling Club
- Hill Climb Girl (Nihon Animator Mihonichi)
- Rinkai!
1Yowamushi Pedal
One of the most popular cycling anime, Yowamushi Pedal excels at creating a story that blends heartfelt character moments with intense racing action.
The series follows Sakamichi Onoda, an awkward high schooler who unexpectedly joins the world of competitive cycling.
Unlike the typical hot-blooded sports protagonist, Onoda is timid and unassuming, drawn to cycling not out of pride or ambition but for the pure joy it brings him.
The anime shines with its emotional depth, focus on teamwork, and nail-biting races, though its slow pacing might not be for everyone.
If you love an underdog story with a lot of heart, Yowamushi Pedal is worth the ride.
Yowamushi Pedal info (MAL):
- Alternative Title: Yowapeda
- Episodes: 38
- Released: Fall 2013
- Studios: TMS Entertainment
- Genres: Sports
- Themes: Racing
- Score: 7.92 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)
Watch Yowamushi Pedal trailer video:
2Over Drive
This anime combines a love of road racing with a touch of romance and rivalry. It follows Mikoto Shinozaki, a clumsy high schooler who discovers his potential for cycling after being inspired by a classmate.
Over Drive strikes a balance between comedy humor, drama, and thrilling races, though it does slow down during flashbacks that dive into characters’ backstories.
If you can appreciate a mix of emotional storytelling and lighthearted moments, this anime is worth checking out.
Over Drive info (MAL):
- Alternative Title: N/A
- Episodes: 26
- Released: Spring 2007
- Studios: Xebec
- Genres: Sports
- Themes: Racing
- Score: 7.51 (MAL), 7.1 (IMDb)
3Idaten Jump
If you’re looking for something with a twist, Idaten Jump brings fantasy and adventure into the mix. This supernatural mountain bike racing anime is packed with high-energy action, vibrant character designs, and a healthy dose of nostalgia for early-2000s anime fans.
The story follows Sho Yamato, a young mountain bike enthusiast who is suddenly transported to a mysterious world where cycling races are the key to survival.
With his trusty bike, Flame Kaiser, Sho competes in thrilling, high-stakes mountain bike battles while searching for a way home.
While the CGI could have been better, the dynamic races and an awesome soundtrack more than make up for it. It’s a perfect anime for younger viewers or anyone craving some over-the-top fun.
Idaten Jump info (MAL):
- Alternative Title: N/A
- Episodes: 52
- Released: Fall 2005
- Studios: Trans Arts
- Genres: Fantasy, Sports
- Themes: Isekai, Racing, School
- Score: 7.35 (MAL), 8.3 (IMDb)
4Nasu: Summer in Andalusia
A hidden gem among cycling anime, Nasu: Summer in Andalusia is a beautifully crafted movie that takes a professional cyclist’s perspective.
Set during the Vuelta a España, it tells the story of Pepe, a struggling cyclist who’s determined to win a stage of the race in his hometown.
The cinematic quality of this film is stunning, offering breathtaking visuals and a mature, introspective take on the struggles of professional athletes.
It’s a must-watch for fans of grounded storytelling with a touch of emotional depth.
Nasu: Summer in Andalusia info (MAL):
- Alternative Title: Nasu: Andalusia no Natsu
- Episodes: 1
- Released: 2003
- Studios: Madhouse
- Genres: Sports
- Themes: Racing
- Score: 6.97 (MAL), 7.0 (IMDb)
5Long Riders!
For fans of relaxing anime, Long Riders! delivers an easygoing take on cycling. This anime tells the story of Ami Kurata, a college girl who falls in love with cycling after buying her first bike.
Inspired by her friends, she sets out on group cycling trips, learning about endurance, teamwork, and the joys of long-distance rides.
Long Riders! focuses on the camaraderie and peaceful exploration of Japan’s scenic landscapes, making it a charming and relaxing watch.
With its beautiful visuals and feel-good atmosphere, this anime is a lovely introduction to the world of recreational cycling.
Long Riders! info (MAL):
- Alternative Title: N/A
- Episodes: 12
- Released: Fall 2016
- Studios: Actas
- Genres: Comedy, Sports
- Themes: CGDCT
- Score: 6.71 (MAL), 7.2 (IMDb)
Watch Long Riders! trailer video:
6Minami Kamakura High School Girls Cycling Club
This anime takes a more laid-back approach, blending the sport of cycling with slice-of-life storytelling. The plot follows a group of high school girls as they bond over their shared passion for cycling.
The show stands out for its wholesome atmosphere and focus on friendship and personal growth, though some viewers might find its relentless positivity a bit too sweet.
If you’re looking for a refreshing watch with strong female characters and a lighthearted tone, this anime is a great pick.
Minami Kamakura High School Girls Cycling Club info (MAL):
- Alternative Title: Minami Kamakura Koukou Joshi Jitensha-bu
- Episodes: 12
- Released: Winter 2017
- Studios: J.C.Staff, A.C.G.T.
- Genres: Sports
- Themes: CGDCT, School
- Score: 6.36 (MAL), 6.5 (IMDb)
Watch Minami Kamakura High School Girls Cycling Club trailer video:
7Hill Climb Girl (Nihon Animator Mihonichi)
This short but stunning anime focuses on the thrill of hill climbing. With breathtaking animation and a tight, adrenaline-pumping narrative, it encapsulates the essence of determination and passion in just a few minutes.
If you’re looking for a quick watch that leaves an impression, this one is a must-see.
Hill Climb Girl info (IMDb):
- Alternative Title: N/A
- Episodes: 1
- Released: 2014
- Studios: N/A
- Genres: Sports
- Themes: N/A
- Score: 7.32 (MAL), 6.9 (IMDb)
8Rinkai!
Rinkai! centers around a group of competitive cyclists who train and race to push their limits in the world of road cycling.
Rather than focusing on a single protagonist, the anime takes a broader approach, exploring multiple characters and their different motivations and struggles within the sport.
As one of the newest cycling anime (2024), it offers fresh perspectives and modern animation, making it an intriguing addition to the genre.
Rinkai! info (MAL):
- Alternative Title: N/A
- Episodes: 12
- Released: Spring 2024
- Studios: TMS Entertainment
- Genres: Sports
- Themes: Adult Cast, Racing
- Score: 5.65 (MAL), 4.4 (IMDb)
Why You Should Give Cycling Anime a Try
Cycling anime might not be the most popular genre, but it’s packed with stories that inspire, entertain, and leave a lasting impression.
Whether it’s the thrill of intense races, the heartfelt camaraderie of friends on a journey, or the personal growth of characters pushing their limits, these anime capture the essence of what makes cycling so special.
From epic competitions like Yowamushi Pedal to the scenic explorations of Long Riders! and the adventurous twists of Idaten Jump, there’s a cycling anime for everyone. They’re not just about the sport, they’re about perseverance, passion, and finding joy in the ride.
So why not hop on this unique genre and give one a try? Who knows! It might even inspire you to dust off your bike and hit the road!
