Races that traverse mountains and century rides with steep climbs make even roadies with colossal thighs nervous. Climbing is all about balance, breathing, pace and your power-to-weight ratio. It isn't for everybody. But for those advanced cyclists who want to ride long stints in low gears, here are seven races sure to test even the strongest riders.
Farm to Fork Fondo
Various Dates and Locations 1 of 7
Easily the most challenging of the four Farm to Fork Fondos, this ride features four grueling ascents, endless farmland and gravel roads. The prize: sore quads and an incredible sense of accomplishment.
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Your Next RideDevil's Slide Ride
May 20, 2020 in Pacifica, California 2 of 7
With an average elevation gain of more than 9,000 feet, this century ride will certainly test your lactic acid tolerance. If you can overcome the pain, you'll see stunning views of California's beautiful San Mateo Coast.
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Your Next RideGiro di San Diego
June 13, 2020 in Escondido, California 3 of 7
With nearly 11,000 feet of climbing over the 105-mile racecourse, the Giro di San Diego is no joke. Emulating the Italian races of the same name, you can replicate the experience of a European-style race right in Southern California. Want to bring along friends who aren't quite up to your climbing level? The race offers a plethora of options from short 35-milers to 60- and 66-mile races as well.
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Your Next RideHott Doggett 100
July 11, 2020 in St. Mars Hill, North Carolina 4 of 7
Advanced climbers will pedal 9,600 feet of Madison County's scenic mountain in this century ride. Don't worry; you get a free T-shirt to wipe your sweat off at the finish line.
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Your Next RideTour de Big Bear
August 1, 2020 in Big Bear Lake, California 5 of 7
A century ride around one of California's most scenic lakes, Tour de Big Bear offers more than 7,000 feet of climbing.
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Your Next RideSadistic Century
August 15, 2020 in Menomonie, Wisconsin 6 of 7
Sadistic is not the last name of the race's founder. The race is so aptly named because whoever founded it had to be sadistic to inflict this much pain on the riders.
Nestled in the hills and valleys of Menomonie, Wisconsin, this century ride features more than 30 climbs and a total elevation gain of 8,819 feet.
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