Tour de Bintan 2018 is just around the corner! The Tour de Bintan returns to the eponymous Indonesian island for its eighth edition from March 23–25 and for the second year in a row, Asia’s premier amateur stage race will also double as a qualifier for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships (GFWC) in Varese, Italy.
Just an hour’s ferry ride from Singapore and with well-surfaced and mostly quiet roads, beautiful Bintan makes for an ideal setting for a stage race, and it’s no wonder roadies flock to the Tour de Bintan every year from all over Asia and beyond.
Single-ride Options
- 17km (UCI Time Trial qualifier event)
- 144km Gran Fondo Classic
- 111km Gran Fondo Century (can only sign up if you go for the 2-day Race package)
- 82km Gran Fondo Challenge
- 55km Gran Fondo Discovery
Ride Package Options
- 3-day Tour: 17km + 144km + 111km
- 2-day Race: 144km + 111km
- 2-day Ride: 82km + 55km
It’s not too late. Register here now!
For those who are all set to go, check out these insider tips to make the best out of your Tour de Bintan 2018!
#1 Bring your own gels and snacks for the ride
Remember to fuel before the ride. There will be water, electrolytes, drink throughout the stages and some snacks. However don’t rely on the drink stations for food and bring your own food (gels, bars, etc) on the ride as well.
#2 Sunscreen and hydration is key
Remember to get a load of sunscreen on, protect your skin at all cost! Hydrate yourself and drink lots of water before the ride.
#3 It’s an undulating course the whole way – don’t be fooled!
Image credit: Metasport
Mentally and physically prepare yourself before every race. Always think of the worst thing that could happen and make sure to have a plan B set for you. Follow these tips to avoid pre-race jitters!
#4 The enthusiasm of the locals in the villages will inspire you, use their energy!
Image credit: Metasport
Make the most of your ride by taking in the atmosphere. If you have friends and loved ones coming along to support you, use them as motivation to pedal harder and faster.
#5 Enjoy the post-race massage (you’ll be glad you did the next day!)
Treat yo self! Nothing wrong with a little pampering session after a hard ride. There’ll be massage services available after the race so make full use of them!
#6 Get up early and enjoy the pre-race breakfast at the Nirwana Gardens hotel
There’ll be breakfast available at your stay in Nirwana Gardens. Use this opportunity to load up on your nutrition before the race.
#7 Attend the Saturday evening garden party at Nirwana Gardens
Specially organised for Tour de Bintan cyclists, there’s no doubt the evening garden party will be a hoot! It’s a great chance to catch up with old cycling pals and an opportunity for you to network with other like-minded cyclists.
#8 Utilise Recovery Systems booth
Watch out for the Recovery Systems booth at the hotel on Saturday and Sunday post-race to give your tired legs some love. The sunset is majestic over the water, take a look!
#9 Enjoy the local cuisine
Local Indonesian food is delicious, get out to a local eatery if you can. Be sure to try their Beef Rendang – it has a slightly different taste to Singapore’s rendang! If you’re too tired to get out the vicinity, there’s always Go-Jek 😉
About UCI Gran Fondo World Series
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Gran Fondo World Series is a series of UCI sanctioned races held all over the world.
Tour de Bintan is one of only 2 races in Asia and 19 in the world where participants can obtain their ticket for the official World Championships on 1-2 September. Know more here!
#theRIDEcommunity
Follow us on Instagram: @sportsincycling
- The Ultimate Guide For Beginner Cyclists - September 14, 2022
- Cycle for Good 2021 - July 15, 2021
- Mountain Biking In Subic Bay - December 17, 2019