Etap du tour - how realistic?

rodgers73

I'm intrigued by this as a trip but wondered what level of fitness you need to achieve so as not to get eliminated.

I know the route changes every year but what level are we talking about here? Semi-pro riders or amateur blokes like me who fancy a bit of a fitness challenge?

Any thoughts welcome

Thanks

Tom

bartimaeus

My brother-in-law did the Etape last year - including the Ventoux. He's very fit indeed but certainly not 'semi-pro' nor even an amateur racer... and I believe he did a pretty good time. So I think an 'amateur bloke who fancies a fitness challenge' can do a good ride - but it is a serious challenge worthy of some thorough preparation. Better start with some sportives...

Go for it!

Anonymous

I'd say seriousness of prep must be up there with trying to do, say, a 4hr Marathon...

richa

9,000 riders of most shapes and sizes start. The amateur blokes like you (and me) that like a fitness challenge finish in front of the broom wagon. The Racer types finish at the front and there are always those that haven't done enough training.

You have 10 months. If you like cycling and like a fitness challenge then go for it. I did the 2007 Etape and it was awesome.

rodgers73

I'm totally new to cycling but can run a 10k race in 45mins. No idea if that is in any way an indicator! :?

Scrumple

I can eat 5 cream crackers in a minute.... would I be ok?

rodgers73

My typing at 48 word per minute would leave you for dead!