Christian Vande Velde Launches Real Routes

Christian Vande Velde, aka CVV, is launching a new Peloton series titled Real Routes, which will allow Members to ride some of the most famous and challenging bike routes he tackled during his professional career.

Series Overview

The new Real Routes series aims to give Peloton Members a realistic experience of riding professional cycling routes, no passport required. Each class is based on actual routes that Vande Velde has ridden, offering a unique way for Members to connect with the world of pro cycling.

First Ride: Col du Galibier

The first class in the Real Routes series features the Col du Galibier, a renowned climb in the French Alps. This climb has been a regular feature in the Tour de France since its debut in 1911. Located in the Graian Alps, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the Col du Galibier is the 8th highest paved road in the French Alps and is one of the most famous routes in the professional cycling world.

To give you an idea of what cyclists experience when they tackle the Col du Galibier in real life, the climb is 18.1 kilometers long, starting at an elevation of 1,397 meters and reaching a summit of 2,642 meters. Cyclists face an elevation gain of 1,245 meters, with an average gradient of 6.9%. The final section of the climb includes a maximum gradient of 10% at the 17.5-kilometer mark. The Col du Galibier is considered a difficult ascent and is known for being decisive in determining final standings in the Tour de France.  While Members won’t quite reach those numbers in class, they can expect to work hard….very hard.

Historical Significance

The Col du Galibier first appeared in the Tour de France in 1911, at a time when the road was unpaved and the climb was particularly steep. Only three riders managed to complete the climb without walking, marking the Col du Galibier as one of the most challenging stages in early Tour history. The Galibier is often a high point in the Tour de France, and has been included in the race about 60 times. In 2011, the Tour climbed the Galibier twice to celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Class Details

The Real Routes Col du Galibier ride is a 45-minute class, scheduled for release on Wednesday, October 16. It will be available as an encore class on Peloton’s schedule on the 16th and will be available in the On Demand library for Members to access anytime. This class offers Peloton Members the opportunity to experience a legendary cycling route while benefiting from Vande Velde’s expertise.

Do you dare tackle the Col du Galibier with CVV?  We have no doubts that this ride will be intense and can’t wait to hear the reviews!

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