The 2023 cycling calendar is already underway. Races such as the Giro del Sol or the Santos Tour Down Under have delighted us, bringing back the excitement of cycling in its purest form.
Meanwhile, many of us are preparing to conquer the challenges of our particular cycling calendar. And what better way to do so that than with our virtual cycling platform?
At BKOOL, fans can prepare for their season whilst experiencing the most legendary climbs in cycling history from the comfort of their own homes.
In this article, we’re going to present five Italian colossi that you can find at BKOOL. Because as three-time Giro and two-time Tour winner Gino Bartali once said, “Italy is the home of cycling.
“Italy’s love and passion for cycling, a country central to the history and development of the sport, is reflected in these five climbs that will delight you when you get on the Smart Trainer.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert cyclist, these segments will give you the opportunity to challenge your skills and improve your performance on the road to glory.
Stelvio Pass
The Stelvio Pass is one of Italy’s most famous and iconic passes, known for its breathtaking scenery and challenging gradients. With an altitude of 2,757 metres, it is the highest mountain pass in the Alps and the second highest in the Italian Alps. The road that crosses it has 48 hairpin bends, and is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.
In the Giro d’Italia, the Stelvio Pass has been a key place in the history of the competition, being included in the route on several occasions. In 1953, Italian Fiorenzo Magni became the first cyclist to cross the Stelvio Pass, and since then, many other cyclists have achieved the feat.
Do you dare with its more than 24 kilometres at more than 7% average gradient?
Mortirolo Pass
The Mortirolo Pass is known to be one of the most difficult passes in Italy. With an altitude of 1,852 metres, it has an average gradient of 12% and points with gradients of 18%. It is a key place in the Giro d’Italia, and has been included in the route on several occasions.
In 1990, Spanish cyclist Miguel Indurain had an impressive performance on the Mortirolo Pass, gaining a big advantage over his rivals and winning the stage.
It’s only 10 kilometres, but it will make you know your limits.
Gavia Pass
The Gavia Pass is a mountain pass located in the Italian Alps, with an altitude of 2,618 metres. It is known for its breathtaking scenery and challenging slope, with an average of 6.5% and points with gradients of almost 20%. The Gavia Pass has been included in the route of the Giro d’Italia on several occasions, and has been the scene of some of the most exciting races in the history of the competition.
25.5 kilometres of pure challenge.
Zoncolan
The Zoncolan is one of the most difficult passes in Italy, with an altitude of 1,750 metres and an average gradient of 14%. It is known for its challenging gradient and breathtaking scenery. It is a key location in the Giro d’Italia, and has been included in the route on several occasions.
In 2018, Chris Froome was one of the last big names and achieve the stage to achieve victory at the top of the Zoncolan.
Passo di Giau
The Passo di Giau is a mountain pass located in the Italian Dolomites, with an altitude of 2,236 metres. It is known for its breathtaking scenery and challenging gradient, with an average gradient of 9% and points with slopes of 21%. The Passo di Giau has been included in the Giro d’Italia route on several occasions, and has been the scene of some of the most exciting races in the history of the competition.
These five famous cycling passes or climbs in Italy are known for their beauty and challenge, being a key place in the history of cycling and the Giro d’Italia. Each has its own personality and unique characteristics, making each a different challenge for cyclists.
If you haven’t had the chance to try BKOOL yet, you can try it for FREE for 30 days on our website.
