🚴♂️ BIKE – 180 km – +5000 m D+
From Lourdes to Campan –
Across the Giants of the Pyrenees
Official Description
The bike leg of ASCEND is a brutal pilgrimage through the heart of the Pyrenees.
Leaving Lourdes at dawn, athletes face 180 km of relentless climbs, crossing four legendary mountain passes — each a rite of passage in itself:
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Port de Balès
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Col de Peyresourde
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Col de Val Louron-Azet
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Col d’Aspin
The roads are steep, exposed, and majestic. Each descent is earned. Every summit brings a view—and a warning: you're still only halfway through.
The total elevation gain exceeds 5,000 meters.
The weather can change in minutes. From misty valleys to windswept cols, you’ll ride through extremes.
Support is permitted, but no one can climb these mountains for you.
This is not just a bike course.
It’s a battle.
A journey.
An ascent.
FAQ – ASCEND XTRI BIKE
How long is the bike course?
180 kilometers, with more than 5,000 meters of elevation gain across the central Pyrenees.
Which climbs are included?
The course features four iconic mountain passes:
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Port de Balès
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Col de Peyresourde
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Col de Val Louron-Azet
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Col d’Aspin
All of them are steep, long, and exposed, except gradients above 10% in several sections.
What about weather conditions?
You must be prepared for anything.
The bike course crosses high-altitude areas where wind, rain, fog, or sudden cold snaps are possible—even in summer.
Proper gear and flexibility are essential.
Are support vehicles allowed?
Yes, one support vehicle per athlete is allowed and mandatory for safety reasons.
Your support team must carry nutrition, clothing, tools, and be ready for assistance in case of weather or mechanical issues.
Some areas may have restricted access or require stopping points—these will be clearly communicated in the support guide.
What equipment is recommended?
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A well-maintained road or triathlon bike with low gearing
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Disc brakes are recommended for descents
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Lights and reflective gear in case of fog or poor visibility
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Clothing for rapid weather changes (including thermal layers and rain protection)
Are there cut-off times?
Yes. Cut-off times will be in place at specific checkpoints along the bike course to ensure athlete safety and race logistics. These times will be published in the race manual.
Can I preview the bike course?
Yes. GPX files and a full course profile will be made available. We encourage athletes and support crews to drive or ride parts of the route in advance.