But to prevail on these courses is to enter a unique piece of riding tradition. We may not suffer on our tour like the pros but we will enjoy the challenge every bit as much. Just to ride the famous rides with names scarily familiar like Oude-Kwaremont, Paterberg, Koppenberg and Kruisberg is one of cyclings great must do’s. We have yet to see the 2014 course but you can guarantee the hills in the Flemish Ardennes will feature again. And of course we will be among the hundred thousand cycling fans on the course who make the trip to Flanders to watch the race and soak up the atmosphere.

Don’t you just want to ride over these!