If you’re fond of a bike ride this could be for you. Sunday 3 November is the one day of the year the Southern Expressway closes to all motor vehicles and becomes the sole domain of bicycles.

Thousands of riders are expected to take advantage of the annual opportunity to cycle the full length of the Expressway to the Fleurieu, finishing at Serafino Winery in McLaren Vale for lunch.

The beautiful and tranquil course offers unique and spectacular views of the southern beaches and southern vales.

Dave Valente of Bike SA has ridden the Fleurieu Fondo every year:

“Being able to take to a beautiful wide, smooth road without having to ride in the gutter or worry about close passes is a real treat.”

He says the ride suits all comers, offering options from 12km on the paved, off-road Shiraz Trail bike path through 30km, 35km, 70km, 100km and 125km on road as well as special 42km and 60km gravel rides. 

This year’s Fondo ambassadors are SA downhill mountain biking sensation Troy Brosnan and Australian track sprinting squad member Katrina Clonan.

“Troy is home in Adelaide now after placing second in the world championships and finishing the World Cup season in third place,” Dave says. “He is one of the absolute elites of his sport.”

Queenslander Katrina is one of the bright young hopes of the Australian track sprinting squad in training at the Adelaide Superdrome.

“She is very passionate about road safety and is keen to use her profile to push for greater road safety provisions for cyclists,” Dave says.

The gravel rides offer two loop options through some of the most scenic and quiet gravel roads of the Southern Vales, starting and finishing at Serafino Winery.

Refreshments, mechanical and first aid support are provided along the Expressway route, with live music and family entertainment at the finish.

Full details and registration available from Bike SA.