Mallorca 312 route no longer goes round the island but will feature closed roads

The Mallorca 312 cyclosportive will now take place on closed roads but will not circumnavigate the island

Madison Genesis riders tackle the Mallorcan hills

Participants in the Mallorca 312-Giant-Taiwan challenge will face a much changed route in 2016, with the old 'round the island' sportive replaced with a closed-road event on the west side of the island.

The distance remains the same - 312km of challenging roads, starting at the Hotel Iberostar Playa de Muro and finishing in nearby Pollenca.

>>> Brits Creeggan and Coleman take the spoils at Mallorca312 sportive

More than 4,000 riders have signed up to the 2016 event, with 1,500 on the reserves list, with a new 232km route joining the existing 312km and 167km events.

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“This moment is a turning point for the Mallorca 312. It involves moving from a well-organised and renowned event to being one of the best cyclosportives in the world" said Xisco Lliteras, director of the Mallorca 312-Giant-Taiwan.

“It is the opportunity to offer a unique experience to all cyclists. The security increases and they will be able to enjoy an even more fantastic scenery.”

The sportive will take place on April 30.

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Stuart Clarke is a News Associates trained journalist who has worked for the likes of the British Olympic Associate, British Rowing and the England and Wales Cricket Board, and of course Cycling Weekly. His work at Cycling Weekly has focused upon professional racing, following the World Tour races and its characters.