THOUSANDS of cyclists have already signed up for the 2023 Bobbin Head Cycle Classic, affectionately known as The Bobbo, taking place Sunday 26 March. 

How safe is the Bobbo? Paul Rickard, Event Coordinator advises that the Bobbo has an excellent  record with health and safety of every rider, the highest priority.

“We  adhere to all government and state guidelines and will be taking appropriate precautions to ensure the highest care, support, and comfort for all our participants. This includes staggered starting times, support of the Police, SES, St John Ambulance, emergency doctors, mobile bike mechanics, a sweep vehicle and over 400 volunteer marshals”

If riders are unable to sign up before the event, they can do so on the day but must arrive at least 45 minutes before their ride starts. Start times depend on the distance to be ridden. 104 km, 6.30 am, 80 km 6.50 am, 58 km 7.10 am, 27 km 7.20. am

Riders must agree to abide by the road rules of NSW, obey any directions of NSW Police and event volunteers and ride with care and consideration for other users and Bobbo riders.

Riders must warrant that they are physically fit with a bike that is mechanically and legally suitable for public road riding. Only two-wheeled bicycles can be used, scooters are ineligible but e-bikes, now becoming more and more popular, are welcome. 

Riders and any children or minors accompanying them must wear:

• a cycling helmet, with straps fastened at all times, that complies with the relevant Australian Standard and is in good repair;
• a highly visible jersey (preferably yellow)
• closed-toe shoes appropriate for cycling.
• The Bobbo recommends that riding gloves and eye protection are worn.

Riders must not wear earphones or headphones. This is a Police condition, so that emergency and other vehicles, and other riders may be heard. Cyclists riding  the 104km ride which is scheduled to start before sunrise must display

• a steady or flashing white light on the front of the bike visible for at least 200 metres;
• a steady or flashing red light on the rear of the bike visible for at least 200 metres; and
• a red reflector on the rear of the bike visible for at least 50 metres when illuminated by a vehicle’s headlight on low beam.

Four strategically placed Drink Stops along the route enable riders to rehydrate and restore energy with bananas and muesli bars.

On their return, all riders are encouraged to relax and enjoy the atmosphere at the Bobbo Village.  Apart from a wide range of refreshments there are massage, stretch and relaxation services, performances by local school bands and an opportunity to enter the Slow Bike Race and win a prize. Stall holders include Lifeline and the charity beneficiaries of the Bobbo and Bobbo event Partners.

To register www.bobbo.org.au

The Post is a proud Bobbo Partner.