Is the Mountain Bike of Flanders a race?
Yes. The Mountain Bike of Flanders is a three-day stage race affiliated with Cycling Vlaanderen as a category Open XCO event. After every stage there will be a published stage result and a general classification. Even though this event is a race, you are completely free to ride at your own pace – as fast or as slow as you like.
How does the team system work?
In the past, duo teams rode in a relay. For the 2022 edition, however, it was decided that duo teams will ride the full race together. They will therefore start together too. A ranking will be made for the best men’s team, mixed team and women’s team. Depending on the number of registered teams.
How does the time trial on Friday work?
You ride a total of 35 kilometres that includes three timed sections (‘specials’). Riders start every 30 seconds. This also applies to the timed sections where riders start every 30 seconds. Your result is based on the sum of the times in the three timed sections. The kilometres linking these sections are also marked but not staffed by police or course marshals. You ride these non-timed distances at any pace you choose. Completing the entire 35 km route is mandatory though. Duos ride the time trial together. The totalled times of the 2 teammates during the 3 timed sections are added together for your team’s result. It is obligatory for duos to stay together during the timed sections.
Can I register without a racing license?
Yes, you can. If you don’t have a racing license, you must purchase (in addition to your registration fee) three one-day licenses of five euros per day during the online registration. Attention: If you only have a recreation or amateur license, you will also have to purchase three one-day licenses. This covers your insurance during the stage race. Racers with licenses as youth, elite without contract, masters, etc. do not have to purchase day licenses.
How old must I be to enter the race?
You must be at least 18 years old to participate in the Mountain Bike of Flanders. Exception: licensed U19 racers (junior category) are also allowed to participate.
What if I cannot participate due to illness or injury?
Your registration can be transferred to another person until July 31. As of August 1, we will charge 25€ for administrative costs. For transfers, send an email to info@flandersclassics.be.
Is there camping in the area?
All participants are granted access to free camping (bring your own tent) that is walking distance from our main event area where the start/finish is located If you are coming with a mobile home or caravan, please indicate this in the options when booking your ticket, so that we can provide you with electricity.
Am I free to choose my start time?
This is only possible for the time trial on Friday, where you can specify your desired starting time during the online registration process. We’ll do our best to assign you a slot that’s closest to your request. The starting times will be communicated to the participants by mail before the event. The result on Friday determines the starting position on Saturday (group start at 9 am). The classification after the race on Saturday determines the starting position on Sunday (group start at 9 a.m.).
Is there a time limit? What if I am lapped?
Yes, for practical reasons, there is an (ample) time limit. If you finish outside the time limit, you will not be included in the results and the general classification, but are still allowed to start in the other stage(s).
Can I participate with an E-bike, gravel or cyclocross bike?
Gravel, e-bike and cyclocross bikes are not allowed in the stage race.
