Organisers of Velothon Wales have revealed the two new, shorter routes that will be on offer as the revamped sportive returns to Cardiff on Sunday 8 July.
There'll be something for every level of ability or ambition at the 2018 Velothon Wales, with 125km and 60km routes now added to the mix alongside the original 140km option.
All three routes will give cycling enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the thrill of closed road cycling, whilst taking in some of Wales' most breathtaking scenery.
Participants can expect a host of exciting changes, with Welsh events company Run 4 Wales taking on management from IRONMAN under a new licence agreement.
As well as the pair of new shorter routes, cyclists can expect an improved event experience, a celebratory food and drink zone at the finish and the option of having your race pack posted to you in advance - meaning riders no longer need to arrive a day early to pick up race essentials.
Here's a rundown of the three route options:
Velothon 60
The organisers say the new short distance is "perfect for those new to cycling, keen to test their new-found fitness and experience the thrill of closed road cycling for the first time".
Unusually it features a point-to-point route, starting in the picturesque town of Usk (who decorated the streets with up-cycled bikes last year) before joining the 125km route all the way to the finish in Cardiff via the challenging Caerphilly Mountain.
A drop-off zone and all-day parking will be available in Usk, with a number of pre-bookable return coach transfers from Cardiff to Usk available for cyclists looking to collect their vehicles. Bikes will not be permitted on the transfer service but can be stored in a secure bike park in Cardiff until 8pm on event day. Cyclists may prefer to be dropped off in Usk before the 10am start time and be met in Cardiff by their loved ones.
Velothon 125
The 125km distance offers a step up in terms of challenge, although the notorious Tumble hill climb that features on the 140KM route is bypassed, leaving climbing significantly reduced. Nonetheless, with twice the distance of the short route this middleweight option promises a great day in the saddle.
Cyclists will leave Cardiff to the east, heading through Newport and Usk before turning south towards Pontypool and Newbridge on the way to Caerphilly for the only significant climb up the stunning Caerphilly Mountain.
The course ends with a fast descent towards Cardiff city-centre, for a grandstand finish on Cardiff's iconic King Edward VII Avenue.
Velothon 140
If you're up for a challenge, the Velothon 140 is for you!
Featuring the notorious Tumble and infamous Caerphilly Mountain climbs, the route starts and finishes in the heart of Cardiff and takes in some of Wales's most breathtaking scenery.
Host to a UCI sanctioned professional race in 2015-17, the atmosphere along the route will leave you feeling like a pro. The Welsh communities who come out in force to support help deliver a truly special atmosphere that will inspire you to the finish.
How to enter
Entries for Velothon 2018 are now open, with places on the 125km route priced £62 while the 60km route is priced at just £45. Entries will be limited to 1500 in the 125km and 1000 in the 60km, so register now to avoid disappointment.
For more information and to book your place, visit www.velothon.com.
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