The cobbled Koppenberg climb may be less than 100m high and 700 long but this small hill in Flanders is still capable of bringing professional cyclists to a halt.

The climb has become part of cycling legend and riders face a battle to maintain momentum on its 22% gradient and often slick cobbles. Riders are advised to stay seated, keep as much weight over the rear wheel and lay down the power to tame the climb’s cobbles.

The Koppenberg is part of the Tour of Flanders and is one of the most feared climbs on the course. In 2014, the climb featured 44km from the finish in Oudenaarde, rather than 64km from the end as it did in 2013, and so the ascent marks the final hour of frantic racing.

Defending Ronde champion Fabian Cancellara believes the Koppenberg’s new position “will cause the big explosion.” The rest of us are just happy to get over the top.

Vital statistics

Length: 700m
Average gradient: 10%
Start elevation: 14m
End elevation: 81m