Much later in the year than usual, the Bemer Cyclassics will take place in Hamburg: this year, the race will be held on 8 September. Before the professionals roll through Hamburg and the surrounding area, all amateur athletes will be able to enjoy pedalling undisturbed on the main roads of the Hanseatic city, enjoy nature in Schleswig-Holstein and feel the flair of the northern German metropolis in the finale.
Bemer Cyclassics 2024: The routes
There are also two routes to choose from this year. In addition to the "Cyclassics 100" route, the "Cyclassics 60" is also on offer. This is the route for all those who want to take it a little easier, get to know Hamburg from a different perspective or simply feel more comfortable on the shorter distance. Essentially, both laps remain on tried and tested roads and only deviate slightly from the course of recent years. For example, after a two-year break, it is possible to return to the Elbchaussee in its full length. After the construction work, it rolls better than ever on new tarmac.
The start on the Kennedy Bridge between the Outer and Inner Alster is a special sight. The route then heads north-west along some of Hamburg's lifelines, which on this day are reserved for the participants of the Bemer Cyclassics Hamburg. Through the densely built-up districts of Eimsbüttel and Stellingen to Schenefeld, where the Altonaer Chaussee takes on the character of a race track. The state border with Schleswig-Holstein is passed along the way.
Cyclassics Hamburg: 100 or 60 kilometres
Shortly afterwards, the route splits. All those who have opted for the more sporty "Cyclassics 100" and thus the long distance, turn right here towards Halstenbek. The route continues via Tangstedt to Quickborn, from there along rural roads to the northernmost point of the route near Barmstedt. The route returns southwards via Bevern and Ellerhoop past the western edge of Pinneberg. In the south of the district town, the route rejoins the 60-lap route at the roundabout on Wedeler Weg, which leads all participants on the shorter loop directly there via Waldenau. The two fields will not get in each other's way there or anywhere else. The "60ers" start a little earlier in the morning and are also back earlier thanks to the shortcut.
Both Cyclassics Hamburg courses lead past Buttermoor to Wedel, through the old town centre at Roland, a hotspot for spectators. They provide renewed motivation for the finale before heading down to the Elbe. Down - and then up again. Because on the way back to Hamburg, the biggest obstacle of the otherwise flat route has to be crossed: The Kösterberg, the highest point of the route. The 1.7 kilometre ascent with an average gradient of 3.5 per cent is the perfect opportunity for ambitious men and women to attack.
At Altona town hall, the route turns into Königsstraße. While the last visitors to the Reeperbahn are slowly winding down for the night, the end is also heralded for the amateur athletes. From the new town to the old town. Passing the ramparts, a few bends later the Teufelslappen awaits at Rödingsmarkt. Then Mönckebergstraße, Hamburg's famous shopping street, and the finish line is reached.
The "Sprint" rate, which makes it possible to start the "Cyclassics 60" lap for 90 euros, is still valid until 31 July. For the "Cyclassics 100" it is ten euros more.
Youth and children's races
Traditionally, the BEMER Youngclassics, the stage race for the U17 age group, marks the start of the BEMER Cyclassics Hamburg and over the years have developed into one of the most important tours in the U17 age group.
Children without a racing licence can make Mönckebergstraße unsafe on Saturday as part of the TK Kids Race presented by Cyclassics! Children between the ages of 2 and 12 will have the opportunity to let off steam on their bikes. The focus is on fun
Kristian Bauer
Editor
