Frequently Asked Questions

Isn't a road race supposed to be on paved roads only?

Not really, Ryder Hesjedal, one of Canada's most successful ProTour riders favorite race is the Monte Paschi Eroica, in Tuscany which is famous for its "Strade Bianche" or gravel roads. The Giro d'Italia used some of the same roads in 2010. Paris-Roubaix takes place on some awful cobblestone roads that make ours look tame. Check out the links section to get inspired.

Since part of the circuit is unpaved, do I need special wheels or tires?

Not really. Regular 23mm road tires will work fine, but 25mm might be a little more durable. Remember, in order to finish first, first you have to finish! Don't ride your superlight unobtainium wheels.

I can't climb. Is the course very hilly?

No, the course profile is flat. Their might be 3-4m elevation change in the circuit.

Great, it's flat, so it should be easy?

Maybe, if your last name is Merckx or Boonen. The roads are narrow, there are some twisty, winding sections, and it's likely to be windy too. It might even rain. We go rain or shine. If bike racing was going to be easy, we'd call it golf.

How rough is the road surface?

The paved portion is very smooth asphalt, the unpaved is smooth(ish) dirt/gravel. There are a few potholes at the time of writing, and maybe a few more after the spring thaw.

Do I need a Racing Licence .

Maybe! To participate in the road races at the Tour of Bronte, Canadian residents must have a UCI licence issued by their provincial governing body, or purchase a one day permit. Not all categories are open to one day permits. Please check the schedule page to determine one day permit availability. American riders must have a UCI international licence to participate in the road races. Dirt Dash participants do not need a UCI licence but may be required to purchase a one day permit if they do not hold either a UCI licence or an OCA citizen permit. No licence or permit is required for the Sprockids or Group Riding 101 clinics.

Do I need a road bike?

Yes, and no. The licensed races will require that your bike meet the rules for a road bike. Contact the Ontario Cycling Association if you are unsure. The "Dirt Road Dash" citizens race is for mountain bikes only! This will be a "road race for mountain bikes", no pavement, but no single track either.

Why do I have to pay $15 to bring my car into the park?

Because that's the rule. You can ride your bike or walk in for FREE, any time you want. The parking fee supports the park programs and upkeep. Carpool if you can. Registration and the start/finish line are located about 2.5km from the park entrance.

Will there be neutral race service?

Yes, there will be follow vehicles with spare wheels supplied by the riders and/or teams. Riders must clearly mark their wheels with name and race #.

Are team support vehicles allowed?

No, but there are pit areas where teams and support staff may place wheels and spare bikes if you want to. These pit areas will be monitored, but we do not assume responsibility for your equipment.

I watched the Tour de France on TV last summer. Will the Tour of Bronte be televised?

No, You will have to come and see it in person on April 10. However, if you have a lead on a sponsor to pay for it, lets talk.

What do you mean by "no yellow line rule"?

Most road races in Ontario, or North America for that matter, take place on open roads, with regular car traffic flowing on both sides of the road. Racers generally have to stay on the right side of the centre line, or risk disqualification, or worse, a collision with an oncoming vehicle. The Tour of Bronte takes place on a closed circuit, so you can ride on the entire width of the road surface, a distinct safety feature when the crosswinds blow.