Last call for L'Eroica, Italy's vintage bike race

L'Eroica, a period bicycle tour through autumnal Tuscan countryside that emphasizes the use of classic bikes on authentic vintage roads, is setting out on the last phase of preparations as its registration period draws to a close on Monday, September 6.

Before the deadline, there's still time to enter a request to join the event on October 3, which requires participants to use bicycles built before 1987 with gear levers on the frame's down-tube rather than handlebars.

Racers often dress up in period cycling gear as well - doing so makes them eligible for a selection of prizes recognizing the spirit of L'Eroica - and, of course, all look forward to the generously spaced refreshment stops that specialize in traditional Italian food and drink.

With a choice of four white gravel routes of lengths from 38km up to 205km that take in the hills and flats surrounding Gaiole in Chianti, between Sienna and Florence, L'Eroica emphasizes natural beauty and historical authenticity.

The organizers are expecting to welcome up to 3,000 participants, and while the event is an attraction for many bicycle collectors and enthusiasts, it remains open to newcomers and foreigners alike.

To find out more about L'Eroica visit eroica-ciclismo.it or watch a video about the 2009 event by one of the ride's sponsors on youtube.com/user/brooksengland.