Clark is a former United States air base in Pampanga, now a freeport zone. Its roads are wide, and riding here is done in laps, so you can stop whenever you have had enough. That makes it a kind place to start again after years off the bike.
The ride
There are two ways to ride at Clark. The first is the road circuit known as the Figure 8. An Inquirer Lifestyle article on classic rides puts a lap at about 18 km. One lap is a fair first goal. Add a second when the first feels comfortable.
The second is the path around the Clark Parade Grounds. It is 2.2 km long and 2 m wide, with a rubberized surface. It was built as a jogging path and is also used for cycling. It is short and suits a gentle spin, or getting used to a new bike.
Clark also hosts races. PhilCycling, the national federation, held time trial and criterium races here in July 2021. You can read about the federation in Races and organizations to know.
Good to know
- Clark’s dry season runs from November to April. Those are the best months to ride.
- Start early: the roads are wide and open, and by mid-morning it is hot. See riding in the heat.
- The Parade Grounds path is shared with joggers and is only 2 m wide. Ride slowly there, give way to people on foot and call out before you pass.
- Treat the Figure 8 as an open road with normal traffic. Keep right and follow the signs.
- We could not confirm the current gate rules for cyclists. Check with Clark’s management or with local riders before you go.
- Carry water on the bike, even for a single lap.
Getting there
Clark is 80 km north of Manila. If you are bringing the bike by car, the North Luzon Expressway has exits at Angeles and Dau, among others in Pampanga. If you are coming by bus, ask the operator about bicycles before you travel. Our guide to taking your bike on trains, ferries and ships has more.