Up Close With The Roubaix Cobbles with GCN
Source: GCN Youtube Channel: Up Close With The Roubaix Cobbles
Video Up Close With The Roubaix Cobbles with Global Cycling Network
Video Up Close With The Roubaix Cobbles with Global Cycling Network YouTube Channel.
Up Close With The Roubaix Cobbles
The Global Cycling Network takes you on a thrilling journey through the legendary Paris-Roubaix race, known as the “Hell of the North.” This iconic race is the third Monument on the cycling calendar, and its brutal nature has earned it a legendary status in the world of cycling. But what makes Paris-Roubaix so infamous? The answer lies in the cobbles, the bone-shaking, teeth-chattering, and bike-breaking surface that turns cyclists into gladiators.
**The Men’s Epic Race**
The men’s race covers a distance of 29.9 km, which is 3.3 km longer than the previous year. With a total of 29 sections of cobbles totaling 55.7 km, this year’s route boasts the most cobbled sections in the past 30 years. Among the returning cobbles are the brutal Pavé de la Justice and Carrefour de l’Arbre, ranked 26th and 24th respectively.
**Queen of the Cobbles: Quiévrechain-Python**
One of the toughest sections of the race is the Quiévrechain-Python, a four-star cobble sector located with about 150 km to go. This 3.7 km stretch of cobbles features a slight downhill entrance, leading to a gradual uphill section that tests the riders’ legs. The cobblestones, combined with the distance, make it a formidable challenge for the cyclists.
**Havet Wallers: A Minefield of Cobbles**
The Havet Wallers sector, also known as the Pave Bernard Hinault, is a 2.5 km stretch of cobbles notorious for its mud and dust. This four-star-rated sector poses a challenge to riders, with slippery and uneven cobbles that become treacherous in wet conditions. The sector pays tribute to French cycling legend Bernard Hinault, adding to its significance in the race.
**Aronberg Forest: The Ultimate Test**
Aronberg Forest is considered the most brutal sector of the race, featuring unforgiving cobbles that can break both riders and bikes. This five-star sector, 2.3 km long, is iconic for its massive cobbles and challenging terrain. Riders must navigate the uneven surface and gaps between the cobbles while maintaining high speed, making it a true test of skill and endurance.
**Pavé Gilbert Duclos-Lassalle: A Launch Pad for Victories**
The Pavé Gilbert Duclos-Lassalle is a pivotal five-star sector located close to the finish, often serving as a launch pad for race-winning moves. Riders must tackle a slight uphill section and a 90-degree turn, followed by rough cobbles that require precision and control. This sector has seen historic moments in the race, with past winners using it to secure their victories.
**The Final Battle: Carrefour de l’Arbre**
The Carrefour de l’Arbre is the last five-star sector of the race, situated under 20 km from the finish. This challenging 2.1 km stretch of cobbles has been the scene of decisive moves and race-changing moments. With its brutal terrain and close proximity to the finish, this sector is where riders make their final push for victory in Paris-Roubaix.
Paris-Roubaix is not just a race; it’s a spectacle that tests the courage, skill, and determination of the world’s best cyclists. The cobbled sections, with their rough and unforgiving surface, create a unique challenge that sets this race apart from any other. As the riders battle their way through the hellish terrain, they become legends in their own right, leaving a mark on the history of cycling that will be remembered for generations to come.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel Global Cycling Network and do not necessarily represent the views of Bicycles4ever Cycling Culture.
