British cyclist and adventurer Mike Laird has introduced a new route to the 2011 Trans Oz Bike Ride.

Route B, designed to be cheaper and shorter, will tackle 15 stages across the Outback, starting in Melbourne and ending in Longreach 1309 miles (2094km) later – an average of 87 miles per day, with the longest stage a gruelling 114 miles.

The original race, Route A, covers 2000 miles (3200km) in 17 stages from Melbourne to Cairns.

Laird, who developed the race, completed his own trans-Australia bike ride entirely unaccompanied and is the first person to have knowingly undertaken and completed this particular route.

“This truly was an experience of a lifetime and I am delighted to be able to open this up to other people with an appetite for adventure,” said Laird.

“We have planned and researched every element of the race to ensure that the Trans Oz Bike Ride runs as smoothly as possible.

“We’re looking for people with a serious passion for cycling to become involved. Anyone with determination, bags of energy and a decent bike should reach the finish line.”

For more information head to www.transozbikeride.com