RIDER ZONE

All Those Essential Details

Nothing beats the sheer freedom of being out on the open road. But to get the most out of your ride be sure to familiarise yourself with all the need-to-know info before heading off for the day. From starting times to road rules and everything in between – you’ll find all the ‘house rules’ below. And if you’re making a booking for someone else – please share these details with them. 

How to Get to Barefield

Use the map below to get directions from your point of departure.  

Open in Google Maps

Where to Park

Complimentary parking will be available for all cyclists in Barefield, Eircode: V95 N293. Please follow the signage upon arrival for guidance.

Information regarding camper vans and campers will be shared closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates! 

EVENT SIGN IN

Are you ready to register for the 2024 Tour de Burren? Click the link here to register for the Tour de Burren!

EVENT SIGN IN will take place in Barefield Community Hall, Eircode: V95 FD28 on:
Friday, June 21st: 4pm – 8pm
Location: Marquee, Barefield
Can’t make it Friday evening? No problem!
Sign in will also be open on Saturday, June 22nd from 7am – 8:30am.

Paper-Free Registration: We have adopted a paper-free registration process to minimize our environmental footprint. All registrations are conducted electronically, eliminating the need for printed materials. All you need do is provide your name and you will be given a wrist band to wear for the duration of the event. You will be asked to show your wrist band for refreshments and food stops entry, ice cream at the finish and to receive your special Tour de Burren keepsake.

Booking reference numbers, bar codes or paper tickets are not required for registration.  

When the Event Starts

The Wild Burren Way 160km9am
The Aillwee 110km9am
The Giants Playground 75km9.10am
Dromore Family Spin 22km10am
Important to note: Should you choose to set off early on your ride, please be aware that there will be no marshals on the road so cyclists ride at their own risk. We recommend you do not leave before the given start times. 

Useful Information

Weather Conditions There may be showers throughout the day so take extra care on the road and come prepared. 
Route Markers Cycle the route for which you are registered by following the directional signage which is clearly marked in YELLOW AND BLACK. Please be alert to each sign. 
Road Closures There will be NO roads closed but you should expect delays on all approach roads to Barefield. 
Refreshment Stops There will be water stops throughout all routes.
To keep you fed and watered on the 160km and 110km you will be offered refreshments at Ballyvaughan.
Please note there will be a refreshment stop in Carron on the 75km route.
Please remember you will need to show your wrist band to claim your free refreshments.
Bike Maintenance Please be aware it is your own responsibility to make sure your bike is in good working condition. Double check it before you leave home and bring spare tubes and other essentials with you. There is no bike mechanic or bike shop on any of the event routes. 

RULES AT THE READY!

We’ll be working hard behind (and in front of) the scenes to make sure the cycle goes smoothly – but we need participants to play their part too. Here are some simple guiding rules to bear in mind:
  • Prepare well for the day and make sure your bike is roadworthy and in good working order.  
  • All participants MUST wear helmets.  
  • Arrive with time to spare so there’s no need to rush. 
  • Respect the rules of the road. 
  • Be kind to your fellow cyclists, marshals and event organisers. 
  • Remember – the Tour de Burren is a leisure cycle NOT a race. Enjoyment is everything! 
  • Follow the marshals’ instructions. 
  • We do not provide breakdown cover: you will be responsible should your bike break down on the day. 
  • The event closes at 5.30pm when the finish point will be dissembled. 
  • Please do not litter while cycling. We are proud of the place we call home and want to keep the Burren beautiful for all to enjoy. Follow the LEAVE NO TRACE principle. 
  • The organisers reserve the right to refuse participation in the event. 
  • And very importantly… have a great cycle and a wonderful day! 

STANDARDS AND SAFETY 

As a group of passionate cyclists, the Burren Cycling Club works hard to ensure the Tour de Burren is run to the highest standards. To ensure your safety, our marshals will support all riders until 5.30pm on the day. If you choose to stay on after the event or head for the bar, please remember you will be responsible for your own safety. 

TOP TRAINING TIPS

Are you a cycling event newbie? No sweat, here’s some advice to help you prepare for the big day: 

Position Perfect 
Find a comfortable position on your bike that’s neither too cramped nor stretched. A good bike shop or an experienced cyclist can help. 

Wear Well 
Cycling clothing can be expensive – but investing in a good pair of cycling shorts can really make a difference and keep you comfortable. 

Gear Good 
Most bikes offer a good selection of gears – but don’t be tempted to push a heavy gear ratio. Select a gear that lets you spin your legs freely – especially up hills. 

Prime Pressure 
Don’t cycle on soft tyres – pump to required psi level as stated on tyre wall. If conditions are greasy we often reduce psi in such conditions or reduce for comfort.

Eat and Hydrate  
Eat a light breakfast 1 to 2 hours before your cycle. Follow the “a little and often” rule as you ride. Drink before you set off and regularly as you go. Don’t choose fizzy drinks – stick to plain water or sports drinks that will keep your energy levels up. 

Brake Right 
Pull both brakes evenly together before each turn. The beginner’s habit of using just one brake when cornering will most likely result in a fall! 

Whip the Wind  
It’s hard cycling alone into a strong headwind – so cycle in a group, as close together as possible. You’ll find ‘sitting’ in a cyclist’s slipstream really makes a difference! 

Helmet On! 
Always wear your helmet – even on a short training spin. 

Stay Safe    
Most beginners crash by knocking into each other. Stay alert, watch out for upcoming danger and brake in time. When cycling in a group, warn each other of potholes or other hazards.