Côte de Stockeu

https://www.strava.com/segments/893327

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Note from Laurens: The first time we approach the Stockeu, we will ride the climb as in LBL. So we turn left at the statue of Addy Merckx just like the pros do. See description below.
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The Stockeu is undoubtedly one of the hardest climbs in Belgium. For many, it is even the hardest. It will come as no surprise that this was Eddy Merckx's favorite climb during Liège-Bastogne-Liège. This climb causes a real battlefield among cyclists. This is due to the murderous gradients at the bottom of the climb. Large sections of the climb are above the incredibly steep 20%. Over a length of 200 meters, this hill even climbs at an average of 19%.

In Liège-Bastogne-Liège, only a portion of the climb is taken. The pros come down the Wanneranval and then sharply turn right directly onto the Stockeu. After about 1100 meters, the riders turn left at the statue of Eddy Merckx. Too bad, because the climb rises steeply for over a kilometer more.

The climb starts in Stavelot, just beyond the bridge over the Warche. There, you immediately take the narrow street Stockeu. It quickly becomes clear that this will not be an easy climb. You climb between the houses, and as the road bends to the right, the gradients start to increase. Take a deep breath, because the real work is about to begin.

At the junction, keep left. There is a row of trees on both sides of the road. The gradient rises extremely quickly now. As you enter the short section of forest, you will face a battle with gradients around 20 percent for 200 meters.

As you exit the small forest, it begins to become slightly less steep. But many cyclists can't go further than dragging after this violence. After 300 meters, you reach the statue of Eddy. Those who have had enough can turn left here to descend directly after Stavelot (dangerous descent!). Those who have the strength to keep cycling will certainly not be disappointed. There are no extremely steep sections anymore, but it definitely hurts. Fortunately, you have beautiful views.

Lvanoutheusden