MICHAELGATE

LINCOLN, LINCOLNSHIRE

Michaelgate is a true classic – a 1-in-6 cobbled road through the heart of Lincoln. The centrepiece of the annual Lincoln Grand Prix, one of the country’s greatest bike races, this is a bone-shaking, lung-busting test of both man and machine. Finding the base of the climb in the maze of little streets is a challenge in itself; there are a number of cobbled hills here including the even steeper but, unfortunately, pedestrianised Steep Hill. The cobbles are well maintained and even but can be slippery; the key is to keep your momentum and stay seated to increase traction. There is a foot of smooth paving between the stones and the curb, just enough to ride on, but this takes the fun out of the climb so stick to the stones. Once up the main section you plateau. The way is pedestrianised up ahead so bear left onto Wordsworth Street and follow it up to the junction with Drury Lane. Turn right here to follow the race route into Castle Square.