Ride new events, learn new skills and challenge yourself, we’ve got a host of ways to make the most of your riding in 2024
Climb higher
The Alps, Pyrenees and Dolomites might be where your mind first goes when thinking about rides packed with climbing and beautiful vistas but there’s also plenty to be had on your doorstep too.
Brecon Beacons, Wales 23 June, dragonride.co.uk Entry fee: £25-£40
The Dragon Ride, set in the Welsh countryside, prides itself on being the UK’s “toughest sportive”. Distances start at 100km (62 miles), with the hardest option the 296km (184-mile) Dragon Devil route, with 4,614m (15,137ft) of climbing.
Lake District 12 May, fredwhittonchallenge.co.uk Entry fee: £99
This charity sportive is held every year in memory of Fred Whitton, the former Lakes Road Club secretary, who died of cancer in 1998. The 180km (112-mile) route takes in the famous passes of Kirkstone, Whinlatter and Hardknott, climbing 3,169m (10,400ft).
Yorkshire 16 June, ridethestruggle.com Entry fee: £59
With a max gradient of 33%, the ascent of Rosedale Chimney Bank is the centrepiece of the Struggle Moors sportive. The classic 160km (100-mile) route clocks up a total elevation gain of 2,800m (9,200ft).
Bag an Alp
THE PROVING GROUNDS OF THE PROS, RIDE IN THE WORLDTOUR’S WHEELTRACKS
A rite of passage for any cyclist, climbing high into the Alps is unrivalled in terms of racing history, stunning views and, of course, abject suffering.
Alpe d’Huez 18 August Eurotunnel return: from £150
This year’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will conclude atop the stunning 8.6km climb of Alpe d’Huez. Go along to just outside Grenoble, and zig-zag up the 21 hairpins before the riders come through.
If you cannot get to Alpe d’Huez you can always ride up the digital version – Alpe du Zwift – from the comfort of your living room.
L’Etape du Tour Nice, France 7 July, letapedutourdefrance.com Entry fee: £130
This year’s Etape du Tour (Tour de France stage) challenge is built around the race’s penultimate day, starting in Nice and scaling four climbs, including the Col de la Couillole. Pray for good legs, the race climbs 4,600 metres in just 138km.
Nail the CW Big R ide Challenge
PICK A CHALLENGE TARGET – YOU RIDE IT, WE’LL DO THE REST...
We’re always keen that everyone gets the most out of their riding, that’s why this year we’re launching the CW Big Ride Challenge with a selection of distances to suit your goals.
These will range from fun riding and explorative outings to distance, climbing and consistency challenges. Tailored to your riding level and the time of year, these are all designed to keep you motivated throughout 2024.
We’ll also be sendi
