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3 Peaks Cyclo-Cross

Yorkshire Dales, United Kingdom · 27 September 2026

Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal

At 61km with 1524m of climbing, this is the UK's toughest and biggest cyclo-cross event, featuring significant unpaved and unrideable sections over challenging terrain.

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Distances
61km
Elevation
1,524 m
Surface
tarmac, gravel, singletrack, dirt
Typical W/kg
3.2–4

Rider fit

Who it's for

This race is for experienced cyclo-cross or mountain bike athletes seeking a significant physical and technical challenge.

Who will struggle

Riders with limited off-road experience, lower fitness levels, or those unfamiliar with steep, technical descents will find this race particularly demanding.

Training focus

Training should emphasize sustained climbing power, descending skills on rough terrain, bike handling in technical sections, and endurance.

Are you ready for this race?

Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.

FAQs

What is the total distance of the race?+

The total distance of the 3 Peaks Cyclo-Cross is 61 kilometers (38 miles).

How much climbing is involved?+

The race features a total of 1524 meters (5000 feet) of climbing.

What is the terrain like?+

The course is a mix of tarmac (28km) and unpaved sections (33km), with an estimated 6-8km of unrideable terrain depending on conditions.

Where are the technical support pit areas located?+

Mechanical support, bike changes, and food/drink hand-ups are permitted only at the marked pit areas in Cold Cotes and Ribblehead.

Is there a time limit for the race?+

The event has specific cut-off times at various checkpoints, with the finish scheduled between 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM on race day.

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