Get up at 4 AM. Ride 270 kms in the rain and cold, across roads that are often cobbled and/or muddy. Climb several hills that are barely passable. Consume lots of coffee and waffles. And mull over the fact that even at a brisk pace you’re riding 7-8 mph slower, on average, than the pros will go tomorrow.
It’s the Ronde van Vlaanderen. Did I mention the waffles?
Aha: a kindred soul. You should come and watch it someday!
It’s high on my list. This is my favorite week of the cycling season – I would love to see the Ronde and Paris-Roubaix in person.