The Little Belgium Ultra Cycling Ride is not just a test of physical endurance but a journey that carves the shape of Belgium beneath the relentless turning of wheels. Starting from the heart of Brussels, this 300+ kilometer cycling tour is a tribute to the spirit of adventure that lies within every cyclist’s heart. Imagine setting off as the first light of dawn breaks over the city, the Grand Place behind you bathed in a soft glow. Ahead lies a day that will test your limits, a day that will see you trace the contours of a nation with nothing but your bike and your willpower. This is no ordinary ride; it’s a voyage through the very soul of Belgium.
Little Belgium: Cycling and sight seeing
I would call Little Belgium more than an ultra cycling ride or challenge but a journey through the heart of Belgian and European history. Imagine pedaling through the serene site of Marche Les Dames, where the tragic fall of King Albert I in 1934 left a nation in mourning. Push forward to the iconic fields of Waterloo, where in 1815, Napoleon’s ambitions were finally quelled, altering the course of European history. As you cycle towards Brussels, the grandeur of the Royal Palace awaits, a symbol of the Belgian monarchy and a repository of national pride. Nearby, the Atomium glistens in the sunlight, its nine spheres representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, a testament to human ingenuity and a beacon of progress from Expo 58.
And as the wheels turn, the European Council looms, the political powerhouse where decisions shaping the continent are made. Each pedal stroke is a step back in time, each breath a reminder of the rich tapestry of stories that make up the fabric of this land.
The Little Belgium cycling challenge is more than a physical feat; it’s a ride through living history, where every landmark tells a tale, and every vista invites reflection on the legacy of a nation.
You can download the Little Belgium Cycling GPX here via my activity page.
Flandrien fest
On this particular journey, the skies opened up, unleashing a deluge that turned roads into rivers and paths into muddy trials. It was Flandrien weather at its finest—cold, wet, and unyielding—conditions that have forged some of the greatest cyclists in history. Little Belgium…worthy its name when confronted with these weather conditions. But with a trusty Canyon C Grail CF SLX 8 Di2 gravel bike as a companion, the challenge transformed into an exhilarating battle against the elements. The bike’s steadfastness on the 5% to 10% of gravel and mud roads was a testament to its design, a beacon of reliability when every pedal stroke was a fight against the squall.
Little Belgium on my Canyon Grail CF SLX 8 Di2
The Canyon Grail CF SLX 8 Di2 is a marvel of modern engineering, a gravel bike that blends the speed of a road bike with the ruggedness of a mountain bike. It’s a bike for the adventurer, the weekend warrior and the endurance racer alike… so me 😊. With its sleek carbon frame, the Grail CF SLX 8 Di2 is both lightweight and durable, designed to tackle the toughest of terrains without compromising on speed. The electronic Di2 shifting system ensures precise gear changes in a fraction of a second, allowing riders to maintain momentum on challenging inclines and during critical race moments.
The bike’s geometry is a masterpiece of balance and comfort I must say, providing a riding position that’s aggressive enough for racing yet comfortable for long-distance journeys. It’s one of the main reasons I chose this gravel bike. The carbon wheels slice through the air with minimal resistance, while the frame’s compliance absorbs the vibrations of rough gravel paths, reducing rider fatigue over long distances. The Grail CF SLX 8 Di2 is not just a bike; it’s a companion that’s ready to take on epic journeys, such as the Little Belgium 300 kilometer challenge, with grace and power.
Bad experience with the Schwalbe G-One RS Evo tyres
However, no journey is without its challenges, and the standard tyres, the Schwalbe G-One RS Evo, though designed for speed and efficiency, have shown some serious limitations in durability for me. What a worthless tyres! The experience of four punctures during a ride speaks to the need for a tyre that can better withstand the unpredictable nature of gravel riding. The grip issue also highlights the importance of a tyre that can confidently navigate the varied textures of off-road trails. Just for your information, I have just ordered a pair of S-Works Pathfinder 28″ Folding gravel tyres. I followed the advice of a fellow garvel rider but I can’t share you my experience yet.
The Dynaplug Racer Pro Tubeless Tire Repair Kit
In moments of adversity though, the The Dynaplug Racer Pro Tubeless Tire Repair Kit has proven to be an indispensable tool. Its ability to quickly and effectively repair punctures on the go is a testament to its design and the foresight of riders who carry it. The frustration of a sealant that fails to do its job is mitigated by the reliability of the Dynaplug kit, which allows riders to continue their journey with minimal interruption.
In conclusion, the Canyon Grail CF SLX 8 Di2 is a bike that excels in performance and design, a true testament to Canyon’s commitment to innovation and quality. While the standard tyres may require reconsideration for the rigors of gravel riding, my overall experience so far is one of exhilaration, achievement, and the joy of overcoming the challenges of the road less traveled. The Dynaplug Racer Pro Tubeless Tire Repair Kit emerges as the unsung hero, ensuring that the ride goes on, no matter what surprises the trail may hold. It was the perfect companion during a harsh Little Belgium cycling challenge.
The importance of food and hydration during cold and wet days
But what is a warrior without their armor, a cyclist without their sustenance? It is important that you go well-equipped with food and hydration. You can’t overstate this aspect of ultra cycling. Carb loading is one of the things you can do before your ride. But what during your ride? On a ride where the elements conspire against you, your energy reserves are your lifeline. Using Maurten 360, a drink mix that promises a steady release of energy, was crucial. It’s not just about the calories; it’s about maintaining the delicate balance of electrolytes, the hydration that keeps the muscles from cramping and the mind from faltering.
Yes, there are oases scattered along the route, places where one can refuel, but they are mere pit stops in a marathon that demands self-sufficiency. Carrying enough food and drink is akin to carrying hope, the assurance that you can keep going when your body screams for respite.
Why Maurten Drink Mix 320?
Why Maurten? For endurance athletes, nutrition is as crucial as the training itself, and Maurten 320 Drink Mix has become a game-changer for many, including myself. During grueling events like gran fondos and ultra challenges, where every ounce of energy counts, this drink mix stands out for its high carbohydrate content. With a whopping 80 grams of carbs per 500 ml serving, Maurten efficiently fuels the body’s needs for an entire hour of intense cycling. This means that one can focus solely on the ride without the distraction of juggling multiple food items or drinks.
Moreover, the absence of acid in the mix is a thoughtful addition, safeguarding dental health by preventing enamel erosion—a common concern for athletes who consume acidic drinks frequently. This innovative formulation not only supports sustained performance but also promotes long-term well-being, making Maurten 320 Drink Mix an indispensable ally in the pursuit of endurance sports excellence. It’s not just about the physical boost; it’s about the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re fueled by a product that’s designed with the athlete’s holistic health in mind. So, when I line up at the start of a long-distance event, I do so with the confidence that my nutrition is in the pocket. It allows me to pour all my energy into the pedals and enjoy the journey. The simplicity, effectiveness, and health-conscious formulation of Maurten 320 Drink Mix truly make it a cornerstone of my endurance nutrition strategy.
The Little Belgium Ultra Cycling Challenge is a narrative of resilience written with each turn of the wheel
The Little Belgium Ultra Cycling Ride is more than a tour; it’s a narrative of resilience written with each turn of the wheel. It’s a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and to find joy in the struggle. And as the ride comes to a close, with the shape of Belgium etched not just on the map but in the heart, one can’t help but feel a profound sense of accomplishment.
For those who dare to take on this challenge, know that it is not merely a physical feat; it’s a pilgrimage through the very essence of cycling culture, a homage to the Flandrien spirit that dwells within us all. So ride on, brave souls, for the road is long, but the glory of conquering the Little Belgium Ultra Cycling Ride is eternal. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact me!
