The Great Manchester Cycle returns this summer providing the unique opportunity to cycle through the city streets on completely closed, traffic-free roads. The family friendly event welcomes cyclists of all abilities and offers three separate distances to choose from of 13, 26 or 52 miles.
Starting at the Etihad Campus, the route then leads onto Mancunian Way which is usually off limits for cyclists. The circuit then heads over to Old Trafford, keeping both United and City fans happy, and around Salford Quays before heading back to the start again via Mancunian Way. The 26 mile option covers two laps, passing through the Etihad Stadium, while the 52 mile is a four lap course.
Food stations, toilets and bike maintenance can be found both on course and at City's ground, which will also host the event village featuring entertainment, food, drink and charity stalls to create a party atmosphere for the anticipated 8,000 cyclists.
Children accompanied by an adult are allowed to enter the 13 mile race for free, as either a cyclist (8-15 years) or on a bike seat/trailer (3-7 years), while adult entry costs £22 - £30 depending on the chosen distance.
The race pack contains a finishers' T-shirt and the all important medal, but this is not a time trial race - it's you against the city streets.
A variety of bike types are allowed on the course, and you can even ride a tandem. So grab a friend and get cycling in the city this summer.
And if this is your first event and you feel a bit nervous, or if you're just after some advice from those in the know, Edinburgh Bicycle Cooperative are holding a series of in store events ahead of the cycle, including talks on how to prepare for a long ride. The talks are free - although booking is essential - and will cover all aspects of taking part from eating on the go to training for your event.
Great Manchester Cycle, Sunday June 28 2015.
See more things to do in Manchester from Time Out.