How Many Miles Is Paris-Roubaix?

By Anna Duncan

Paris-Roubaix is one of the most iconic and grueling cycling races in the world. It’s known for its rough cobblestone sectors and unpredictable weather conditions, making it a true test of endurance for even the most seasoned professionals.

But just how many miles does this legendary race cover? Let’s take a closer look.

History of Paris-Roubaix

Paris-Roubaix has been around since 1896, making it one of the oldest cycling races in the world. It was created by two Roubaix textile manufacturers who wanted to promote their businesses by organizing a bike race that would pass through their town. The first edition of Paris-Roubaix was won by German cyclist Josef Fischer, who completed the course in just under 10 hours.

The Current Course

Over the years, the Paris-Roubaix course has undergone numerous changes. However, one thing that has remained constant is its reputation as a difficult and punishing race. The current course covers a total distance of 257 kilometers (or approximately 160 miles), starting from Compiegne and finishing in Roubaix.

The Cobblestone Sectors

One of the defining features of Paris-Roubaix is its cobblestone sectors. These rough stretches of road can be extremely challenging for cyclists, as they require a great deal of skill and endurance to navigate successfully. There are a total of 29 cobblestone sectors on the current course, covering a distance of around 55 kilometers (or approximately 34 miles).

The Difficulty Level

Paris-Roubaix is widely regarded as one of the toughest races in professional cycling. The combination of long distance, rough terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions make it a true test of strength and endurance for riders. To give you an idea of just how difficult this race is, consider that the average speed of the winner is usually around 40 km/h (or approximately 25 mph) – a remarkable feat given the conditions.

In Conclusion

So, to answer the question “how many miles is Paris-Roubaix? “, the answer is approximately 160 miles.

But as any seasoned cyclist will tell you, this race is about much more than just distance. It’s a test of skill, strength, and endurance that only a select few are able to conquer. If you’re ever in France in April, be sure to check out this incredible event – it’s one that’s not to be missed!