Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Challenge

Starting at the southern end of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, it follows a 170km loop with the A5 as it's centre line. Where the A5 follows the valleys, the route climbs the hills to either side, including the Llangollen Panorama, Horseshoe Pass, Clocaenog Forest, Migneint (Ysbyty Ifan) and Ceiriog Ridgeway for a total ascent of 3000 metres.

This is a non-competitive cycling event on public roads. It is not a race or trial of speed. The objective is to complete the course within the time limit of 10 hours (equivalent to an average speed of 17kmh^-1 or 10.6mph).

Features

A number of long, steady climbs, with the odd steep one thrown in for variety.

Full signed and easy to follow route. Printed route sheet provided as backup.

Route of 170km and 3000m ascent.

Two feed stations : Pentrefoelas and Corwen.

Quiet roads, beautiful countryside and superb views.

Gradients are typically less than 10% but four climbs are continuous for 4km or more. The maximum gradient is 18%. While this is not an extreme ride it is still a challenge and will be a thorough test for all.

A good target for those taking part in the Etape du Tour or Marmotte would be 20kmh^-1 or around 8 hours 30 minutes. Riders who bettered 8 hours last year achieved gold medal standard in those events.

The Climbs

There are five notable climbs plus various lesser bumps along the way.

Tower Hill

175m in 3.8km - average 4.6%, max 17%
The first climb of the day leading to the Llangollen Panorama

Horseshoe Pass

300m in 4.25km - average 7%, max 12%
The classic climb out of Llangollen.

Clocaenog Forest

200m in 4.2km - average 4.7%, max 10%

Migneint (Ysbyty Ifan)

230m in 9km - average 2.5%, max 12%
A succession of ramps from Ysbyty Ifan up to the source of the River Conway.

Ceiriog Ridge

320m in 5.7km - average 5.6%, max 18%
Coming at 100 miles, it really is the sting in the tail.