Rotorua Police are gearing up for the large crowds expected as part of Crankworx taking place this weekend.

The event will run from the March 16-24 and is based at Skyline Rotorua and Whakarewarewa Forest with more than 30,000 spectators and participants anticipated to attend.

Locals can expect that roads in the area will be busier than usual and there will be delays as attendees arrive and depart, says a police on the Bay of Plenty and Taupo Police Facebook page.

"Police are reminding drivers to always be aware of other roads users when they are travelling, taking extra care to look for cyclists and give them room on the road.

"Cyclists biking on the road need to make sure they are adhering to the road rules – this includes wearing a helmet and having lights on your bike at dawn, dusk and in poor weather conditions.

"To avoid things going downhill, every bike owner should be taking care to lock up or store bikes wisely over the course of the week – let’s save the free-riding for the competition.

"For proof of ownership, ensure that you record the serial number and take a photo of the bike. Police will continue to investigate dishonesty offences and encourage people to report all thefts.

"You can do so by calling 105, or reporting it online at www.police.govt.nz/use-105 People should consider a high-quality D-lock or similar to deter would-be thieves.

"Police will be visible at the event to help ensure everyone has a wheelie good time."