Routes

Start and Finish

All routes start and finish at the main entrance of the Tampere Exhibition and Sports Centre.

Routes initially follow Ilmailunkatu eastbound, then turn right to Sarankulmankatu. Finish follows the same route in reverse.

Ride carefully, especially at turns and curbs.

The first departures are at 7.20 and the finish line closes at 20.00. We hope that those arriving and leaving will take this into account and avoid unnecessary driving through Ilimailunkatu during the day.

Traffic and Markings

Traffic controllers are on duty along the route and cyclists must follow their instructions.

In addition, every cyclist is required to follow traffic rules and pay attention to other road users throughout the journey.

Please note that the routes pass through several settlements, so cyclists must be vigilant and monitor other traffic and adjust their speed accordingly, especially in built-up areas.

Routes are marked with red-white signs and yellow tape.
Ride on the right side of the road. Riding side-by-side is not allowed.

About routes

Hiekka Pirkka

Hiekka Pirkka route is not marked on the terrain, and there is no traffic control on the route except for places where the route intersects/deviates from road routes. The route has been updated from last year to make it easier to navigate and to avoid the smallest paths. It consists mostly of sand and forest roads, but there are also some asphalted sections. So don't use last year's file, but save yourself the 2026 route.

The route is mainly in good condition, but the roads also have loose rocks, potholes and bumps, so riders should "stay alert" when lighting conditions and speeds vary.

There are two Klassikon / Pitkän Pirkka service points along the renewed Hiekka-Pirkka 2026:

  • Valkeakoski/Voipaala approx. 56 km

  • Akaa/Viiala approx. 102 km

The route runs quite far at times, with remote and forested sections, so it is worth preparing for the drinks and energy you will need.

If you deviate slightly from the route, there are shops and services available in Valkeakoski, Viiala and Lempäälä.

We recommend that those setting out on the route use a map-displaying software or device and active navigation.

The groups will be "self-guided" in terms of both speed and staying on the route.

We also recommend that you download the 112 Suomi application to your phone and save the Pirkan Pyöräily bicycle maintenance and interruption transport phone number 050 4086 111 for possible emergencies and problems.

Those who registered for Hiekka Pirkka have been sent more detailed instructions and the GPX file of the route by email. Please contact us if you have not received the email.

Yöpyöräily

  • Traffic control only at start

  • Otherwise normal road rules apply

  • Follow markings carefully

Pitkä Pirkka Speed Groups

  • All average speed groups drive the same route for the entire 210 km distance.

  • Joining mid-route is not allowed. Only registered participants may ride in groups

Perhepyöräily (Family Cycling

  • Same start/finish

  • More information later

Soveltava Pyöräily (Adaptive Cycling)

  • Same start/finish

  • Starts after main routes

Mun Pyöräily (My Cycling)

Ride your chosen distance (210 km / 134 km / 150 km gravel) anywhere, anytime until 30.6.2026.

Participants can pedal the distance they want (210km, 134km or sand 150km), in the place they want and at a time that suits them, however, so that the time to complete the cycle is from the date of purchase until 30.6.2026.

Participants ride at their own responsibility.

Sales of the self-service package end on 31.5.

You can get your performance entry and name in the results list by submitting a gpx file of the performance to the organizer after the performance or by taking a screenshot of it. Delivery no later than 1.7.2026.

Please submit your performance via this link.

Do not send it by email.