The ‘hardmen’ of cycling have a special place in the hearts of fans. Riders who seemingly ride on the front of the peloton for hours upon end, or who thrive in adverse conditions and on the toughest terrain.

The cobbles of northern France and Belgium are a natural breeding ground for such riders and, with the 2015 Spring Classics season underway following last weekend’s Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne double-header, expect to see the toughest riders in the peloton thrive over the next six weeks.

Ian Stannard’s second consecutive Omloop victory confirmed his place among the toughest British riders after a tactically-astute ride on the Flandrian cobbles.

But it’s not just on the cobbles where there’s a unique grit required to succeed, with cycling a sport which offers no easy ride, whether it’s on pavé, in the mountains or against the clock.

Who are the toughest British riders of all-time? Here are seven who have earned their place in the hall of fame. Want to make your own nomination? Let us know in the comments section below.