Save £250 on a Giant Defy 1 with the Bristol Belter

We're fans of the Bristol Belter, a well-run sportive that takes in some of our favourite riding across the Mendips, with three distances to suit everyone. And if you're looking for a new sportive bike, there's another reason to enter: you can get £250 off a new Giant Defy 1 with your place.

Amongst other splendid riding the Bristol Belter gives you a go up the famous Cheddar Gorge between the imposing cliffs, and the ride has a reputation for looking after riders with great food stops and excellent facilities at the start/finish venue, which this year has moved to the Bristol Cathedral Choir School. There's a new partner, too,  the Giant Brand Store in Bristol (Bradley Stoke), and it's them that are offering the deal on the Giant Defy. You'll need to show up in person with your registration number for the ride. This year they've also teamed up with E3coach to offer event-tailored training solutions, with free initial assessment and profiling available to participants

Even if you don't want a new bike or a training plan there's lots to recommend the Belter: great routes, nice food and amazing weather (NB: may not be amazing in a good way, this is the South West). You get a bunch of sportive gubbins – electronic chip timing, finishing certificate and present, free parking and free showers) thrown in for your £27 (£22 for the short one). Check out their website at www.bristolbelter.com.