What one piece of advice would you give?

orbeaorca

Ok, so I am off to France in September to climb some cols including Galibier and Alp d'Huez
Have never tackled anything like this before, I am working hard to prepare myself physically but the thought of these climbs is daunting to say the least, so what one piece of advice would you seasoned col conquerers give to a first timer?

rdt

Enjoy yourself?

They're not as tough as you might imagine, so long as you've got low enough gears such that you can pedal constantly for an hour (Alpe) or two (Galibier).

And make sure you can carry plenty of warm/wet-weather gear, in case the conditions are grim near the summit (esp. Galibier). It's a long way and time descending back to the valleys, and if you're freezing cold and wet it could be hell (and dangerous).

Anonymous

Pack plenty of layers... You'll be fine up the climbs but the weather can be very changeable.

I've shown this a few times on here but these were from the same day/ride in June last year...

ThatBikeGuy

Nice photos Nap - one extreme to the other :shock:

Le Commentateur

I was going to say take both summer and winter clothing, but the photos above explain better.

So maybe take a larger sprocket on the cassette than you think you'll need. A 28 or 29 may not get much use in the UK but there'll be times on the very long climbs (or the shorter ones at the end of a long day's ride) where you'll be grateful to spin along for a while.

Brian B

For me:-

Bike and equipment that you are comfortable with and gears that you can push even when tired - 7% gradients for a long time can feel so much more

Getting up is optional but getting down is mandatory - be careful on descents and ensure you have good breaks, tyres and tubes

Check the weather every day and be prepared.

Pack your own food and gels etc. French cafe times are a hit or miss and change like the weather.

Factor in stopping time at the top and on the way down as the views in this area are stunning.