Nol and Loek from FatPigeon.cc are huge fans of riding away from the road. When they got the chance to combine iconic sections of pavé from the infamous Paris-Roubaix with some linking sections of gravel, the idea for GRoubaix was born. After 186kms of testing out all the best away-from-the-road sections that northern France has to offer, they definitely earnt their post-ride beer.
Loved and Loathed
Paris-Roubaix is one of the most epic cycling races on the professional racing calendar. It's a race every cyclist dreams of taking part in, let alone winning. The best part is that even we mere mortals can take on the challenge of riding this unique, loved (and loathed) region by bike.
As if the cobblestone sections around Roubaix weren't challenging enough, we decided to create a gravel route. The route connects the most legendary sections via gravel paths, smuggling trails, farm tracks, and even some hidden, unknown cobblestone sections.
What do you need?
- A strong set of legs
- A good dose of courage
- Gravel tyres at least 35mm wide
- Preferably with a tubeless setup
- Some well-fitting gloves
- Cash (payments by card are not yet the standard here)
To Battle
It's still early in the South Flemish hilly landscape when father and son Johan and Joeri Wannijn welcome us to their spacious cycling paradise. Over freshly made coffee, we discuss our shared passion for worldwide gravel adventures, the history of the shop and of course Paris-Roubaix.
Knowing what awaits us that day, there's a tingling sensation in our stomachs. It's probably a mix of butterflies and healthy nerves. The cobblestones in this region are no joke, especially when you connect them via as many unpaved roads as possible. Fortunately, Jowan is the right place to have the bike optimally prepared for a bumpy ride. Bolts are tightened, the headset is adjusted and, last but not least, secrets about the perfect tyre pressure are revealed.
From the Start
Located at the foot of Kluisberg, with the start of the strava segment right outside the door, the route immediately climbs from Jowan. Luckily, the climb is short. Plus, once you reach the top, you're halfway through the only two climbs on the entire route. Fun fact - the French-Dutch language border runs along the same peak.
With a picturesque view, you descend via a winding singletrack, setting the tone for the ride. Zigzagging through the Duchy of Hainaut, Flemish roads, the first cobblestones and various types of off-road sections alternate at a rapid pace.
Hell
Rail tracks, some with rusted wagons still on them, hint at the approaching famous Arenberg mines. Perfect, wide and well-maintained gravel paths lead you through the Wallers Forest to the cobblestone section that puts the same forest on the world stage every few years.
Why is Paris-Roubaix called "The Hell of the North"? You'll learn - or better yet, feel - the answer in the Wallers Forest. 2.3km long, with the first 600m slightly downhill. We rode on a gravel bike with 40mm tyres and a road bike with 32mm tyres. Even with these, conquering the stones was a challenge. The thought of pros racing on them at incredible speeds, amidst a swirling peloton and on narrower tyres, sends shivers down our spines.
Variety
Gravel, cobblestones, twists, turns, and more gravel and cobblestones. With the Wallers Forest, Mons-en-Pévèle (in the long route) and Carrefour de l'Arbre, you'll encounter all the 5-star sections of the most famous, loved and feared one day race of the world. As the cherry on top, at the end you'll turn right onto the iconic Roubaix Velodrome. This is THE place where cyclists become legends and where many dreams either come true or shatter.
Reward after Work
After 186 kilometers, we returned to the Shimano Service Center Jowan in Kluisbergen. Owner Johan greets us, has us sit down in "the chair," and serves us each a Paix Dieu beer - a beer which is solely brewed during a full moon. Dusty legs, red eyes and shaking hands betray our day in hell. However, the wide grin from ear to ear proves that exploring this mythical region by bike is an unparalleled highlight, something every cycling enthusiast should experience at least once.
We would like to thank Johan and his son Joeri, as well as the rest of the Jowan team, for their unparalleled hospitality and the wealth of useful tips & tricks!
Route details
- Start/Finish: Shimano Service Center Jowan in Kluisbergen (Belgium)
- Distances: 186km and 119km
- Difficulty: Very challenging
- Terrain: Gravel, singletracks, cobblestones
- Ridden on: April 14, 2022
- Recommended gear: Gravel bike
The full (186km) and the 'light' (119km) versions of the Fatpigeon.cc GRoubaix routes can be found here: