The Tour of Flanders, known locally as the Ronde van Vlaanderen, is one of the races that defines the identity of northern European cycling. Unlike long endurance classics such as Milano-Sanremo, Flanders is built around repeated climbs, narrow roads and constant positioning battles.
From the early editions in Belgium to the modern WorldTour calendar, the race has kept the same core idea: repeated short climbs, often on cobbles, where power, bike handling and timing all matter.
For many riders and fans across Europe and the United States, the Tour of Flanders represents the purest version of a spring classic.
Origins of the Tour of Flanders
The first edition of the Tour of Flanders took place in 1913. It was created in Belgium as a race that would cross the Flemish region and connect different towns through local roads.
At the time, many of these roads were still rough farm tracks or cobbled sectors. What began as a necessity of infrastructure eventually became the defining characteristic of the race.
A few early elements shaped the identity of the event:
-
The route crossed the Flemish countryside rather than focusing on a single climb
-
Cobbled roads were common in the region and naturally became part of the race
-
Local spectators quickly embraced the race as a regional symbol
Over time, the Ronde van Vlaanderen evolved into one of cycling’s five Monuments.
The climbs that define the race
Unlike long Alpine or Pyrenean climbs, the hills in the Tour of Flanders are short but extremely intense. They are known locally as “bergs.”
Many of these climbs combine steep gradients with cobbled surfaces, which means riders must balance traction, cadence and positioning.
Famous climbs in the Tour of Flanders
Oude Kwaremont
One of the longest and most decisive climbs in the race.
Key characteristics:
-
Long cobbled section
-
Moderate gradient but extremely demanding after several hours of racing
-
Often used multiple times in the modern route
Paterberg
A short climb but one of the steepest in the race.
Typical features:
-
Very steep cobbled ramps
-
Narrow road
-
Often used as a launch point for decisive attacks
Koppenberg
Historically one of the most feared climbs in Flanders.
Key traits include:
-
Extremely steep gradient
-
Rough cobbles
-
Technical approach that makes positioning critical
These climbs, repeated late in the race, gradually reduce the peloton and create small groups of contenders.
How tactics evolved in the Ronde van Vlaanderen
In the early decades, the Tour of Flanders was often decided by long solo moves. Riders attacked from distance because team structures were less organized.
As professional cycling evolved, the tactical structure of the race changed.
Different tactical eras
Early years
-
Long solo attacks
-
Riders managing their own effort across the countryside
Team-controlled racing
-
Strong teams controlling pace before key climbs
-
Smaller breakaways rather than solo rides
Modern classics racing
-
Repeated accelerations on cobbled climbs
-
Attacks from powerful classics specialists
-
Small groups reaching the final kilometers
In many modern editions, the race is decided within the final sequence of climbs.
Why the Tour of Flanders is so selective
Several elements combine to make the race one of the hardest on the calendar:
-
Short but repeated climbs
-
Rough cobbled surfaces
-
Narrow roads that increase the importance of positioning
-
Weather conditions typical of northern Europe
Even if the total elevation gain is not extreme compared to mountain stages, the combination of terrain and intensity makes the race extremely selective.
For riders around 75–85 kg who specialize in classics, this type of terrain can be particularly suitable.
The cultural importance of the Ronde
In Belgium, the Tour of Flanders is more than a bike race. It has become a cultural event that attracts large crowds along the climbs.
Fans often gather on the cobbled sectors hours before the race arrives. The atmosphere on climbs like the Oude Kwaremont or Paterberg reflects how deeply cycling is embedded in Flemish culture.
For many Belgian riders, winning the Ronde van Vlaanderen carries a significance comparable to winning a world championship.
Practical example: the typical race scenario
Although every edition unfolds differently, a common pattern appears in many recent races.
-
Early breakaway forms in the first half of the race
-
Major teams control the pace approaching the final climbs
-
Attacks begin on climbs like the Oude Kwaremont
-
Small groups form before the final kilometers
-
The winner emerges from a decisive move on the last climbs or a small sprint
This sequence reflects how modern teams manage energy and positioning across a demanding course.
FAQs
What makes the Tour of Flanders different from other classics?
The repeated cobbled climbs make it more explosive than races based purely on distance or flat terrain.
Why are cobbles important in the race?
Cobbled roads increase the physical difficulty and require specific bike handling skills.
How long is the Tour of Flanders?
The race is typically around 270 km depending on the route used in that year.
Is the race only for powerful riders?
Most winners are strong classics specialists, but success also depends on positioning, timing and endurance.
Conclusion
The Tour of Flanders has maintained its identity for more than a century: short, steep cobbled climbs combined with constant tactical pressure. While equipment and team strategies have evolved, the essence of the race remains the same. Riders must manage repeated efforts, position themselves on narrow roads and choose the right moment to attack.
For many fans and riders alike, the history of the Ronde van Vlaanderen represents the spirit of northern classics racing at its purest.
