Gran Fondo Storebælt – September 2nd, 2023
The start of the Gran Fondo Storebælt is just around the corner. The final details regarding the race execution have been finalized, allowing us to provide you with the ultimate update before you embark on the beautiful route. Below, you can read all the practical information.
Number Pickup from Carl Ras, Mileparken 31 in Herlev.
We strongly recommend that as many participants as possible pick up their race numbers on Friday, as we anticipate high demand on Saturday.
- Friday, September 1st, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Saturday, September 2nd, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
At the pickup, you’ll receive the BLUE race number, a cycling jersey (for those who have ordered it), and a white bag for extra clothing, which will be transported from Herlev to Nyborg. The white bag is ONLY intended for a change of clothes. The race number includes: number for jersey, number for helmet, and an A5 label for the white change of clothes bag.
Parking in Herlev:
There will be a limited number of parking spaces around Carl Ras in Herlev. All cars MUST be collected by Sunday, September 3rd, at 4:00 PM.
Routes:
We’ve updated the route from Herlev to Nyborg due to changes in the depots. See the route here:
Bus Departure from Nyborg to Herlev:
All buses will depart from Nyborg between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, with the first ones arriving in Herlev around 9:30 AM. The bus journey, including loading 50 bikes and unloading, takes about 2 ½ hours. The first wave of participants from Herlev will start at 11:00 AM.
- 7:00 AM – Start Group 1 & 2
- 7:30 AM – Start Group 3
- 8:00 AM – Start Group 4 + 5
Bus Departure and Parking:
Buses will depart from the parking area at exit 44 Knudshoved, Hjejlevej – Storebæltsbroen nødparkring. Staff will guide you to the parking area.
After the Race:
Buses with accompanying trucks will depart again from 6:30 PM until everyone is on board.
Coffee and Cinnamon Rolls in Herlev:
From 8:00 AM and throughout the morning, coffee and freshly baked cinnamon rolls will be served at Carl Ras in Herlev.
Fri Bike Shop Herlev:
Fri Bike Shop Herlev – Ballerup will be present in Herlev on both Friday and Saturday. They will have a complete workshop to assist with any pre-start challenges. They offer a free mechanic service for minor adjustments, and larger repairs are available for a fee. They’ll have tires, tubes, lubricants, helmets, bikes, and everything in between at Fri Bike Shop’s booth, all at specially reduced prices. Fri Bike Shop is looking forward to two exciting days with plenty of speed.
Depots on the 160 km Route: The first depot will be at Kirke-Såby after 50 km, Egevej 6. The next one will be after 116 km at Stillinge Skole. Both routes will meet at this larger shared depot. All depots will provide water, energy drinks, bananas, energy bars, gels, and cake. Remember to dispose of your trash at the depots.
Route Marking:
The route is clearly marked with black signs and yellow text. There will be some physical checkpoints as well. Remember that this is a recreational event and traffic laws MUST be followed. Motorcycle officials will be present throughout the route.
Timing:
There will be a Master start from Herlev to Hove to ensure safety, with a speed of 15 to 20 km/h. Everyone will be registered from both Herlev and Hove. The timing/marking line will be just after crossing the Storebæltsbroen bridge on Hjejlevej. Additionally, everyone will receive a time from the Storebæltsbroen start to Nyborg. From there, it’s 6 km to Cirkuspladsen in Nyborg, where the finishing celebration will take place. So, you can enjoy a leisurely ride to Cirkuspladsen.
Start Times in Herlev from Carl Ras:
- 11:00 AM: First start group at 24 km/h, around 450 riders.
- 11:20 AM: 26 km/h start, around 450 riders.
- 11:40 AM: 28 km/h start, around 450 riders.
- 12:00 PM: 30 km/h start, around 450 riders.
- 12:20 PM: +32 km/h start, around 450 riders.
Mechanic at All Depots:
There will be a mechanic at all depots to provide assistance if needed. However, the selection will be limited as it’s not possible to have bike parts for every type of bike. There will be an ample supply of tires, tubes, CO2 cartridges, and such. Note that mechanic help comes at your own expense.
IMPORTANT:
The bridge opens at 4:00 PM, and the last rider goes onto the bridge at 6:30 PM. If you don’t make it within this timeframe, unfortunately, you’re out of the recreational event. However, we’re confident that everyone will do well.
Pickup Vehicle from Herlev:
A pickup vehicle will be available from Herlev (limited seats) to transport you to the nearest depot if needed or to the finish line in Nyborg. Remember to have your mobile phone with you.
Support Vehicles:
The entire route will be on small but beautiful roads. With around 2500 participants on different routes, there won’t be much room for additional traffic. Therefore, support vehicles are not allowed on the route.
Finish Area:
Cirkuspladsen – Banegårdsalleen, 5800 Nyborg Upon arriving at Cirkuspladsen in Nyborg, there will be bicycle parking available so you can enjoy your well-deserved pasta salad from Hotel Nyborg Strand, along with a cold soda or beer. We’re very excited for September 2nd, when we’ll create a cycling celebration together.
Best regards, Allan Johansen, Jørgen Sørensen & Mogens Gamst.
