About
Ride Info
Bike Shed have striven to make this event as good value as possible, aiming to give riders great bang for your buck. This is 100% a charity sportive so any proceeds made from this event are going directly to our charity partner – FORCE Cancer Charity.
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We fully appreciate your support for the event and Bike Shed will strive to send you home with a big smile after a cracking day in the saddle.
What does my entry fee include?
– Free beer upon return to Ride HQ
– Free parking close to Ride HQ
– Full route marking
– Mechanical support
– Well stocked feed stations
– First aid / emergency support
– Event photography
– Broom wagon
– Toilet facilities at HQ
How much does it cost?
The Smuggler – 100 miles: £35.00 (£50 after 20th May or on the day)
The Smuggler – 60 miles: £35.00 (£50 after 20th May or on the day)
The Smuggler – 60 miles (Gravel): £35.00 (£50 after 20th May or on the day)
The Smuggler – 40 miles: £35.00 (£50 after 20th May or on the day)
All entries must be placed online through this British Cycling link:
Please note: Entries are non-transferable.
START DETAILS FOR ALL ROUTES:
With 4 routes on offer in 2024 at The Smuggler we have devised a start window for each ride, this aims to ensure all riders finish within a certain time span – both for safety and so you get back to enjoy some well-earnt food!
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The routes are challenging rides, with plenty of climbing to give those legs a test – North Devon doesn’t have much flat tarmac we’re afraid to say. It makes up for it with it’s beauty though.
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Take your time, soak in the views, enjoy the food at the feed stations (eat every hour as a rule of thumb) and drink regularly. Keeping well fuelled is absolutely the key to keeping those legs turning and maintaining energy levels – no gas, no engine.
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We will be starting you in waves of riders, with a 5min gap in between. There will be a full safety briefing at the start line. Please listen carefully.
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Please make every effort to stick to these start times, especially the 60-mile riders.
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100 MILE ROUTE:
Start: Between 07:00 – 07:30
60 MILE ROUTE:
Start: Between 07:30– 08:00
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40 MILE ROUTE:
Between 08:00 – 08:30
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* No riders will be able to start before 0700, and none after 8:30
* Please ride carefully over the start line, no rush.
* Remember you are on public roads, normal rules apply!
Will there be feed stations?
Yes. Feed stations will be located at intervals during your chosen ride. The stations will provide an assortment of energy food and drink to keep you fuelled on your cycle. Please be sure to take full advantage of these stations to keep all important energy levels up.
Will the route be signposted?
All routes will be clearly signposted, at the start of your ride during the ‘riders brief’ the event organiser will clearly point out the signs / arrows you will be following. We have striven to use quiet, stunning roads, avoiding any busy main routes where possible. All riders will be given an emergency contact number at registration.
What if my bike breaks?
There will be mechanical support available on the day from fully trained Bike Shed mechanics for any bike emergencies you can’t sort yourself. It is recommended every rider carries at least two spare inner tubes and a small lightweight tool. Inner tubes will be available to purchase from feed stations and Ride HQ. You will be given the mechanic’s number at registration.
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Parking?
There are two car parks on offer for the event, we have secured FREE parking all day with no time restrictions at the Park and Ride - however this year the leisure centre will be charging.
Both car parks will be clearly signed from the major roundabouts on the way into Barnstaple. Please use the Google maps links below to confirm your chosen location.
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Once parked please follow signs to RIDE HQ.
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1. BARNSTAPLE PARK & RIDE
Park School
EX32 9AX
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2. NORTH DEVON LEISURE CENTRE, LONG STAY
Seven Brethren Bank
Barnstaple
EX31 2AP
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Anything else?
Enjoy the ride and North Devon! Remember this event is not a race, you will be riding on public roads that will be open to other traffic, so normal highway rules apply. Any dangerous spots will be marshalled but keep your eyes peeled and respect other road users.
All riders MUST wear an approved cycle helmet, this is mandatory by law for all UCI registered cycle events.
Bon courage! See you in the bar at the finish!