The Mallorca 312 has become one of the most iconic and popular cycling sportives in Europe. With over 8,000 riders from around the world descending on the island each year, it offers an unforgettable experience on Mallorca’s stunning closed roads. Whether you’re taking on the 167km, 225km, or the full 312km route, this event is a true cycling challenge.
Having completed the event six times myself (and narrowly making the first cut off in my first year!), I’ve put together my top five tips to help you make it to the make the tough finish line, enjoy the ride, and avoid any rookie mistakes.
If you are training for the event then check out my training blog here
My 5 Top Tips for Completing the Mallorca 312
1. Get to the Start Early ⏰
Don’t underestimate the start line. The clock begins when the first rider rolls out — not when you do. With 8,000 riders to release, you could lose up to 30 minutes just waiting to start, though this has improved in recent years (in 2023, it was closer to 15 minutes).
You’ll be assigned a start pen, but the goal is to be near the front of your group. The earlier you arrive, the fewer riders in front of you, which gives you a better chance to get into a good group and make the early cut offs
2. Ride Your Own Event 🚴♂️
It might be tempting to stick with your mates, but this isn’t always practical. With so many riders on the road and chaotic feed stations, it’s easy to get separated. Delays from waiting around or trying to regroup can seriously eat into your time.
That said, riding in a well-matched group can be a huge advantage. If you’ve trained together and know each other’s strengths, you can benefit from drafting and shared pacing. Just make sure you’re compatible and don’t hold each other back.
3. Be Quick at the Feed Stations 🥪💨
Cut-offs are based on the elapsed clock time, not riding time. That means every minute off the bike counts against you. Toilet stops, queuing for food, or regrouping can quickly add up.
Plan to carry as much of your own nutrition as possible, and treat feed stations as quick grab-and-go stops. You can always eat while rolling along slowly — it’s better than standing still.
4. Nail Your Nutrition Strategy 🍌💧
A poor fuelling strategy is one of the biggest reasons riders hit the dreaded wall. The day before the event, stay well-hydrated and eat normally — no need to overdo it. On the morning of the event, have a carb-rich breakfast, then start eating and drinking little and often as soon as you set off.
Stick to nutrition products you’ve tested during training to avoid any stomach issues. Gels, bars, chews — whatever works for you, carry enough to avoid relying on the feed stations.
🔗 Want more guidance? Check out “Mallorca 312 – The Complete Nutrition Guide” for in-depth tips.
5. Ride Smart, Not Just Hard 🧠⚡
Think about how to conserve energy, not just how to push harder. Use an aero position on flats and into headwinds, read the road ahead to maintain momentum over short climbs, and minimise unnecessary braking (safely, of course).
On descents, stay focused and ride within your limits — it’s easy to get caught up in the buzz of the peloton. On climbs, use easier gears to stay smooth and preserve energy for later in the ride.
💡 Pro tip: Don’t panic if the riders in green polka dot jerseys pass you. They’re pacing for the exact 14-hour finish time, but tend to stop longer at feed stations. They can give a false sense of pacing, so trust your own rhythm.
Final Thoughts 💭
The Mallorca 312 is as much a mental challenge as it is physical. With the right preparation, smart pacing, and solid nutrition, you’ll give yourself the best chance to conquer it.
If you’re currently training for the event, make sure to check out my Mallorca 312 Training Academy packed with structured training plans and expert advice.
See you on the start line!
As this will be my first time riding the 312, I had no idea about the Green Polka Dot Jersey riders!
It caught me out when they came past me and struggled to hang onto the back of the group only to find when I caught them up at the last feed station they were enjoying a beer!