We aren't the Swiss Alps, that's for sure, but we have something in common with The Tour's famous hill climb.
Moab and L'Alpe d'Huez are extremely epic locations for cycling!
L'Alpe d'Huez...average 7.8% grade, 21 switchbacks, 1850m (6060 feet), as described by Bicycling Magazine.
The "Big Nasty" section of the LaSal Loop Road....14-19% grade, 3000 ft elevation gain in 7 miles.
"If a pro race finished atop the 'Big Nasty' it would be labeled out of
category", says author Dave Shields. "The Big Nasty is probably steeper
for a short section but the Alps is more sustained", adds Dave.
"Competitor's attacking and hugely insane crowds makes it even more
challenging". He's refering to the Alps, not Moab. Whew!
Good news? We have extra AID stations and Road Support positioned along
the route including veteran volunteers from Partners Capital Management
and the famous Taiko Dan Drummers beating their drums to urge you
onward. We even have a mysterious Red Devil who's appeared once or
twice nudging riders along.
Ron Kiefel, 7 time Tour de France competitor said it's the downhill of
the "Big Nasty" that is definitely out of category. "We didn't see
anything like that in Europe".
Come see for yourself! If climbing hills in the Tour de France isn't
for you, join us in Moab and choose the Rolling 66 or The Cruise 42
mile route along the Colorado River Corridor. Either way, the routes
will be scenic and the fans supportive. Happy Touring!
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