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

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.

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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.