The race routes for the 2016 Santos Tour Down Under have been announced, marking the countdown to next year’s event.

Down Under Classic (Adelaide) – 51 km – Sunday, January 17
Stage 1 – Prospect to Lyndoch – 130.8 km – Tuesday, January 19
Stage 2 – Unley to Stirling – 132 km – Wednesday, January 20
Stage 3 – Glenelg to Campbelltown – 139 km – Thursday, January 21
Bupa Stage 4 – Norwood to Victor Harbor – 138 km – Friday, January 22
Bike Exchange Stage 5 – McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill – 151.5 km – Saturday, January 23
Be Safe Be Seen MAC Stage 6 – Adelaide – 90 km – Sunday, January 24
Mike Turtur said the race will travel 781.3km across the six stages, including 72.7km of new roads.

“It is important we look at ways to keep the race fresh for both the riders and the fans,” he said.

“The race will include three laps through Lyndoch, five complete laps through Stirling and three through Willunga giving fans the chance to set up roadside for the day to soak up the atmosphere and see a lot of the action from one location.”

Tourism Minister Leon Bignell said the routes include a return to some old favourites and the inclusion of Norton Summit road, an iconic South Australian climb.

“The stages are challenging, competitive and offer great vantage points for viewing by adding in more loops across regional stages.” Mr Bignell said.

“Stage 1 will set the scene for a big six days of racing as we welcome Prospect back for the start, finishing in the Barossa town of Lyndoch for the first time.

“It is good to see Corkscrew Hill Road as part of Stage 3 and who could forget Cadel’s stirring win on the stage into Campbelltown in 2014.”

Once again Subaru Australia will be the Official Vehicle partner for the event and sponsor the King of the Mountain jersey and Tour Parade.

The 2016 Santos Tour Down Under will kick off on Saturday, January 16 with the team presentation and free concert in Victoria Square and conclude on Sunday, January 24 with family day and the final day of racing in the city.

Courtesy of www.subaru.com.au