So you’ve registered to ride the Clare Classic or are seriously considering signing up and riding the April 8 event … but what comes next?
There are many aspects to consider before a Gran Fondo, especially one being held in the stunning Clare Valley – a standout destination even without the added bonus of the world-class cycling.
To keep things simple here are the three main factors you need to focus upon as the Clare Classic draws near.
1 – Accommodation
Located 130km from Adelaide, riders will have the choice of spending the weekend in the stunning Clare Valley or driving up on the day. With start times from 8:30am on Sunday April 8, making the day trip from Adelaide will be an option for some.
The Kilikanoon vineyard and cellar door, one of the absolute must-see highlights of the Clare Valley region.
But if you’re planning to spend several days and nights in the Clare Valley (highly recommended by us!) it’s important to book your accommodation as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
For local accommodation options speak with the specialists at the Clare Valley Wine, Food and Tourism Centre. You can phone them on 08 88422131 or visit www.clarevalley.com.au
There’s also limited availability on AirBnB – search Clare Valley at www.airbnb.com.au for more.
Planning to spend the weekend in Clare? You’ll need to secure your accommodation as soon as possible!
2 – Fitness & Preparation
The second major factor you need to consider is your fitness and personal preparation for the event. With two months to go there’s still plenty of time to be building your base and getting some kilometres into the legs.
Clare Classic Training Partners MegaSpin ( 187 Rundle Street Adelaide ) are experts in all things training and bike fitness – they offer spin classes in their Adelaide CBD store and also lead several shop rides each week. Contact Claud or Roxanne on 08 8223 3315 or visit www.megabike.com.au
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- Clare Classic ambassador Dazz Haynes Sevenhill Winery and church near Clare.
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- On the road to Talyors Vineyard and Cellar Door – a Clare Valley destination in itself.
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- Taylors multi award winning Jaraman range can be tasted and purchased at the Cellar Door.
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- The only traffic during a recent cycling trip to Clare was this mob of sheep we came across.
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- Pulled in to Bentley’s Hotel in Clare for the night during a recent cycling trip to the Clare Valley region.
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- BZ Optics are proud Clare Classic supporters – keep an eye on the event Facebook page for competitions and giveaways!
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- Located between Auburn and Clare, Taylors wines are respected and renowned the world over.
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- Immerse yourself in the world of wine during your stay in the Clare Valley.
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- Exploring the gravel backroads in the Clare Valley.
3 – Your Bike
Book your accommodation, stick to your training schedule and ensure your bike is serviced and ready for the event – the three most important factors in the lead up to the Clare Classic.
After the training and preparation for your chosen 50, 110 or 160km event, the next most important factor is the condition of your bike. When was it last serviced? Is it up for the challenge? What’s the condition of the tyres?
In the months and weeks leading up to the Clare Classic we’d strongly recommend you book your bike in for a thorough service with a reputable mechanic. Again the professionals at MegaBike in Rundle St Adelaide can help – but book early as it can be a very busy store.
If you have any further questions about the 2018 Clare Classic email in**@cl**********.au or send a message via the event Facebook page.
