MS Bike The Bridge is back!

Petrol will give way to pedal power on November 10, when the Auckland Harbour Bridge and Northern Busway are opened up again to cyclists for the MS Bike the Bridge event.

The event will provide challenges for pedallers of all ages, from serious cyclists to children and toddlers. This year, for the first time, the finishing line for all events – and the hub of the Cycling Festival – will be the North Harbour Stadium.

The event, previously called the Telstra Clear Challenge, has a new partner this year – MS: the Multiple Sclerosis Auckland Region Trust – which will benefit from money raised.

The most popular route in the event, especially among families, is expected to be the Pedal Auckland 20km ride from the city to the stadium via the bridge and busway.

More-serious cyclists can set their sights on the 115km Clip-on Challenge, which includes the harbour bridge and a loop through Coatesville/Riverhead/Dairy Flat/Waitoki, before finishing at the stadium. There’s also a 50km Clip-on Challenge, which takes in the harbour bridge, Albany and Paremoremo. Secondary school students will have their own divisions in these events.

A Primary School Challenge and Toddler’s Fun Ride will be set up in and around the stadium which will support Auckland Transport's initiative of a month of cycling activities in Auckland schools.

“It’s a privilege to again give Aucklanders and visitors the chance to ride over the harbour bridge – and tackle the busway – free of traffic,” says event organiser Callum NcNair. “We acknowledge the support we are receiving from New Zealand Transport Agency, the ‘guardians’ of our highways, to enable this event to happen.”

To enter the event of your choice go to www.bikethebridge.co.nz. The numbers of riders able to bike over the harbour bridge is restricted, so cyclists are urged to secure their spot quickly.