Newsroom

Princes Freeway lane sweeping commences for United Energy Around the Bay

The lanes of the Princes Freeway are being swept, ready for the 7000-plus riders joining United Energy Around the Bay this Sunday 8 October.

Bicycle Network promised big changes to the iconic event this year, including a closed lane of the freeway and reduced vehicle speed limits to 60km/h, to ensure the safety of 2000 riders participating in The Classic (220km) and 300km distances.

Maintenance crews from the Department of Transport and Planning have worked overnight this week, despite weather conditions, to clear more than 30km of the three-metre emergency lane along the freeway and the southern side of the Bay, from the ferry at Sorrento to Albert Park.

Bicycle Network CEO Alison McCormack says riders will be thrilled.

“In our post-2022 ride survey, we asked for feedback and riders told us they wanted to avoid punctures and safer freeway conditions. They insisted, and we listened. This year’s event will be the best one yet.”

Other changes this year include:

  • Revised rest stops on the 300km route (with additional nutrition) to ensure riders get fuel when they need it most.
  • Our first Ciclovia de Bogotá-style event, the Family Ride, which will take place on a closed circuit around Albert Park Lake.

United Energy Around the Bay has been a premium event on the Melbourne calendar for three decades and is the only day of year where you can ride fully supported around Port Philip Bay.

With seven different options, including a 135km Geelong start, it’s not too late to sign up today.

Join the next United Energy Around the Bay

Register interest

Read more:

Riding Around the Bay for heart health

An organised mass participation ride like Around the Bay can act as a powerful motivator at any point of a health journey, but at one...

United Energy Around the Bay riders to support food waste

Bicycle Network has partnered with Farmers Pick to support their efforts against food waste during United Energy Around the Bay on Sunday 8 October.

United Energy Around The Bay launches with big changes for 2023

The 2023 edition of the United Energy Around the Bay was launched at Kerferd Road Pier in Albert Park this morning with a suite of...

Freeway lane closed for United Energy Around The Bay

Bike riders joining the 2023 United Energy Around the Bay will ride on a closed lane of the Princes Freeway for the first time in...