Although Isle of Man Cyclefest will not run in its regular two-day format this year, organisers confirm that the popular Gran Fondo road event will take place this summer.

It will be held on July 21, comprising of four separate cycling challenges, featuring extensive closed roads riding experiences, for all ages and abilities starting and finishing at Mooragh Park, Ramsey.

The Big One will follow much of the traditional Gran Fondo route including the torturous climbs of Druidale, Round Table and Injebreck, but will feature a number of tweaks to the route, designed to improve rider safety and reduce impact on local residents.

The infamous ’Strade Bianch’ gravel section through South Barrule plantation has developed further, with riders taking on the challenge of the ’Hell of the North’ for the first time - a 2.5-mile section through the technical Ballaugh Curraghs.

The Manx event is one of only three truly-competitive Gran Fondos staged in the British Isles, held on a largely closed roads 85-mile course and operated under the rules and regulations of TLI Cycling.

For recreational riders who want to test themselves that little bit further, the 40-mile Medio Fondo will follow the route of the Gran Fondo to the very top of Druidale - its first major climb.

Participants will then branch off towards the Bungalow and the stunning closed roads descent of Tholt-y-Will as they make their way back to Ramsey. Aimed at families and beginners, the 20-mile Piccolo Fondo will wind its way round the Northern Plains, minus the steep ascent of Bride Hill, and almost entirely on closed roads.

There is also a Minisculo Fondo for the youngest cyclists, held over a half-mile circuit in and around the Mooragh Park area. A Riders Village at Mooragh Park will feature a range of high-quality food and beverage options for riders and their supporters to enjoy, with a giant LED screen showing coverage of stage 15 of the Tour de France; a key mountain stage from Limoux to Foix Prat d’Albis.l Entries for all of the above events will open on January 25 with early bird discount options available. To register your interest go to www.granfondoiom.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at /iomcyclefest.