Rapha X Canyon Workshop
We're never short of an invitation, and it's a great initiative by Rapha & Canyon to organize a workshop with cycling legends Johan Museeuw & Rick Flens to sharpen the cyclist's skillset.
Meeting point
The meeting point is the center of the Tour of Flanders, the epicenter of the race. We couldn't have asked for a better location. The organizing committee is already gathered around their round table discussing the tactics and agenda for the evening as we walk in.
Spaghetti
As everyone trickles in, some with their racing bikes in hand, we confirm our attendance and the enthusiasts order a spaghetti Bolognese to fuel up. I seize the opportunity to perfectly customize a new Canyon Ultimate CF SLX for the trip.
Splitting up
We are neatly divided into groups based on our categories: racers, intermediates, and beginners. A perfect assessment, as it turns out.
3 x Kluisberg
For the appetizer, we are presented with the Kluisberg. "First, ride it as a reconnaissance, then tackle it in a big gear at 60 revolutions per minute, and finally, ride it in your lightest gear while pedaling smoothly," instructs Johan Museeuw. "The goal is to train both strength and cadence. Combining these elements through specific training will enhance your performance significantly," adds Rick Flens.
The Dive to Oudenaarde
After the Kluisberg, we descend towards Oudenaarde. We take the opportunity to practice riding in echelons. Due to the limited wind, it's more of a team time trial. Rick Flens brilliantly instructs us on rhythm, urging us to catch up with Johan's team in a smooth cadence. With success. We overtake them.
The Dive into the Brasserie
Once the town center comes into view, we set aside our bikes and gather in the Brasserie. We sit down at the long table, discussing the workshop, bikes, and Tom Dumoulin's magnificent victory at the UCI Road World Championships time trial in Bergen. On to the next event!"
Vaderklap founding vader Dimi is de trotse vader van A en R, is zaakvoerder van branding agency maneuver.be en z'n passie voor fietsen uit zich in z'n blog pedalar.cc