Gran Fondo's are not races in the traditional sense, but they go well beyond the scope of most recreational rides. Gran Fondo's are Italian festivals of cycling with a great atmosphere, they are typically timed, either the entire course or specified key sections and there is usually an upper time limit to complete the course. Although Gran Fondo's are not races, entrants’ times are recorded and riders are given their finishing position. This can encourage the fastest cyclists to push the pace, with faster riders working together to increase their speed. While some riders will push the pace hard and try to win, the majority of riders are happy to complete the challenge within the allotted time.    

     As the Austrian term “Radmarathon” refers, Gran Fondo's are cycling’s equivalent of running’s marathon. Using the marathon example, rather than racing other participants, most participants challenge themselves in a personal battle against the course, the distance, and ultimately the clock. The routes are usually well sign-posted and/or marshaled , riders will be able to use food stops positioned at intervals along the route to replenish their food and drink supplies,  mechanical and medical support will also be provided.