Folding bike race returns to Smithfield Nocturne
Test your commuting skills to the limit
London’s commuters are being invited to test their mettle in the folding bike race at this year’s Smithfield Nocturne, which takes place on 7 June.
The inaugural race on 23 June 2007 was a popular one, with 40 suited competitors racing around Smithfield Market in central London. But before they could ride, they had to run to their bikes and assemble them, in a Le Mans-style start. They then had to complete five laps – in a downpour – with Richard Bailey eventually winning the race and a Dahon Speed TT as his prize.
This year’s folding bike race will be bigger, thanks to sponsorship from Halfords Cycle2Work. The event will feature qualification heats leading to a grand final, giving more commuters a chance to take part in it.
Besides this commuter challenge, the Smithfield Nocturne will have a full programme including an Elite Criterium, which is part of the British Cycling National Circuit Series, a Corporate Challenge, a Celebrity Race and an Inter Schools Youth Challenge.
