The Hong Kong Cyclothon, the city's largest annual cycling event, is set to return on November 30 with some new routes for selected rides and an enhanced spectator experience, organisers said on Friday.

Organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the event will offer 6,000 spots for local, mainland and overseas riders.

This year’s event introduces changes to its competitive race, the "City Cycling Challenge around the Greater Bay Area (Hong Kong)", that will see the race break from its traditional circuit format.

"The route will extend beyond Tsim Sha Tsui for the first time with a longer course taking in varied terrain across two bridges and two tunnels, making it quite challenging," said board chairman Peter Lam.

"Our goal is to expand the Hong Kong Cyclothon to the Greater Bay Area and work with neighbouring destinations to build a world-class tourism brand for the region."

The non-competitive events also return, featuring the 50-kilometre and 32-kilometre routes.

The 32-kilometre event will see participants from universities in Hong Kong, the mainland and overseas compete for the inaugural World University Trophy.

To elevate the event for spectators, Lam said, the carnival will return to the West Kowloon Cultural District's Art Park, where visitors can watch the races and enjoy music and sports performances.

Registrations start on September 13.

All first-time participants in the 50-kilometre and 32-kilometre events must pass a cycling technique assessment.