This is more A Tour of Flanders, than THE Tour of Flanders. The cyclist may criss cross the Flanders ridge and surrounding countryside with an impunity that is unforthcoming in less civilised countries. The Tour of Flanders route is crossed on a couple of occasions, which proved to be excellent spectator points as the race came through. Canal paths, cycle paths, cobbles, farm tracks, steep climbs and long drags, Belgium loved for variety, scenery and inclement weather, this is the spiritual home of cycling. Ride this ride to see what a recovery ride is like for Conor.

Le Sportif can not overstate its love for the the Ronde van Vlaanderen, a true hard man’s race, go to see the race if you never go to any other cycling event, or ride the sportif, if you think you’re hard enough.