Blog

Our hosts, the Emilia Romagna Cycling Team’s own “Three Musketeers” — Andrea Manusia, Roberto Feroli, and Nicholas Montemaggi — brought their infectious passion for cycling (and limoncello!). Andrea, with his signature line, “You’re the best group ever” (which I suspect he tells every group!), set the tone for a fantastic experience. They organised a unique itinerary, beginning with an overview of the Tour de France Grand Départ from Florence in Tuscany, a route they had a hand in planning. From Florence to Rimini and then Bologna, we explored how these opening stages highlighted Italy’s iconic landscapes and challenging terrain. We stayed at the wonderful Europa Monetti Hotel, hosted by the exceptional Alberto, where we enjoyed not only fantastic Italian food but also top-notch facilities. 

Our first day in Rimini welcomed us with torrential rain—earning me plenty of jokes about bringing “British weather” along! Thankfully, the skies cleared, and the following day we had a chilly but inspiring visit to the Italian Bike Festival. From top brands like Specialized and Bianchi to bespoke Italian bike designers, the festival offered an up-close look at the best in cycling. Personal highlights included Tadej Pogačar’s Giro-winning pink Colnago and the Giro d’Italia trophy.

We saw some amazing new tech, like Campagnolo’s Super Record EPS, a 12-speed electronic shifting system that adds a sleek, modern touch to this timeless Italian classic. Bianchi also impressed with the updated Oltre, featuring a futuristic frame design paired with bold Reparto Corse deep-section wheels — a true blend of style and performance. 

Local chefs treated us to piadina with salami and local cheese, and we rounded off with a delightful violet tart and expertly paired wines. 

Celebrities were out in full force at the Misano World Circuit during the Italian Bike Festival, including the legendary Mario Cipollini (aka “Super Mario”) and the inspiring Marina Romoli. Marina, whose amazing cycling career was tragically cut short by a car accident, now dedicates her efforts to the Marina Romoli Onlus Foundation, a charity that funds research into spinal cord injuries and provides support for those affected by them.

On the second day, we cycled from Cattolica into the hills along the famous SP 44 Balcony Road, a stunning route with views of the Adriatic. After climbing 60 kilometers to a small town of Montecchio high in the mountains, we enjoyed a well-deserved lunch at the Enio Ottaviani Winery near Cattolica with tour of the wine production. The company and local wines made the experience all the more memorable, and the group’s camaraderie grew stronger by the day, thanks to our hosts, Andrea and the Emilia Romagna tourist board cycling project team. 

Day three was a thrilling ride at the Gran Fondo La Gialla, which kicked off with a lap around the Misano circuit —once the home of Moto GP legend Valentino Rossi. Following the pace car out of the circuit onto the open road, we tackled the hills at full power. At the awards ceremony, we celebrated the top riders, including some friendly competition between our fellow riders.

Reflecting on the trip on my way home to London, it’s clear to me why this region is a rising star in the world of cycling tourism. Its blend of breathtaking routes, top-tier cycling events like the Italian Bike Festival, and unparalleled culinary experiences create a unique offering for cyclists of all levels. Whether you’re tackling a Gran Fondo, savouring a ride through vineyards, or simply enjoying a post-ride plate of tortellini paired with a glass of Sangiovese, Emilia Romagna ensures every moment is memorable. For those seeking a cycling holiday that goes beyond the bike, this region promises a perfect harmony of adventure, culture, and indulgence.

I am talking to Hotel Lungomare in Cesenatico to discuss potential bike tours I’d like to lead next year. With their six daily guided tours, extensive facilities, and ideal location, it’s the perfect spot for cyclists of all abilities. Keep an eye out for more details, as I plan to lead a group there next spring—drop me a message if you’re interested in joining. 

Facing the Challenge

But it wasn’t just the training. James had to contend with some tough mental challenges, not to mention the wettest September on record! Cold, rain, and even saddle sores tried to slow him down, but his resilience shone through.

In James’ Own Words

To truly capture this experience, it’s best to let James speak for himself. Here’s how James reflects on his experience after completing the ride…

“Since my return, I’ve been overwhelmed by the support from friends, family, colleagues, and clients. Together, we’ve raised over £35,000 for the Prince’s Trust from almost 300 supporters! The ride itself was an unforgettable experience—9 days, 960 miles, and some of the most stunning parts of Britain, from the Grampian Mountains to the Lake District.”

“Training with Richard was essential. He kept me focused on Zone 2 rides, which helped me build endurance while keeping my heart rate in check. It was tough, but the support from my wife Charlotte, my friends at London Dynamos , and the encouragement of my WhatsApp group kept me going. The hardest moments taught me about resilience—pushing through when everything in me wanted to stop.”

“Some highlights? Riding through Cheddar Gorge, crossing the Severn Bridge, and finally reaching   John O’Groats where Charlotte was waiting—it made all the pain and effort worthwhile.”

For a deeper dive into James’ incredible ride and to see the amazing places he cycled, you can follow the full Babble Ride Across Britain route.

Takeaway

James’ journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with commitment, dedicated training, a strong mindset, and unwavering support. His ride was about more than just cycling; it was a remarkable effort to push personal limits and raise vital funds for a worthy cause. I’m incredibly proud to have played a role in his journey and to witness what he accomplished.

On the first day of our regional familiarisation trip with Emilia Romagna, we embarked on a fantastic ride, starting on the flat coastal plain before crossing the Rubicon River at Savignano Sul Rubicone. This town holds historical significance as it was where Julius Caesar crossed from Gaul, altering the course of the Roman Empire from a Republic to a dictatorship. It marked our entry into the hilly terrain ahead.

Before long, we found ourselves ascending to Ronccofreddo, where the recently paved climbs proved to be absolutely incredible to conquer.

Descending from Roncofreddo, we then ascended to Sogliano, encountering a charming climb with 18 switchbacks, each one more picturesque than the last, all on beautifully laid tarmac.

Sogliano is renowned for its Fosse cheese, named after the caves, or “fossas,” where the cheese is aged. During our visit, we were graciously hosted by the Brandinelli family, who are esteemed cheese makers in Sogliano. The father and son had meticulously prepared a delightful spread for us to enjoy.

And onto lunch we went—an incredible experience awaited us. We were presented with three distinct cheeses, each crafted from different types of milk: one from sheep, one sourced locally, and another from outside the region. These cheeses had been carefully aged for up to 25 months in the caves beneath the dairy, carved into the volcanic Tuffa rock. This unique aging process imparted a distinctive flavour to the cheese, making each bite a memorable culinary adventure.

Emilia-Romagna is celebrated as the breadbasket of Italy, renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, including Balsamic Vinegar from Modena, Parmesan Cheese, and Bolognese Sauce. The region’s capital, Bologna, proudly bears the motto “The Fat, The Learned, and The Red,” reflecting its status as home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, its exquisite cuisine, and the distinctive red brick architecture that defines the cityscape. Additionally, Sogliano stands out as a DOP region for cheese, making it a destination well worth exploring for cheese enthusiasts.

A fast drop off and back towards Cesenatico the port of Cessna connected by a canal to the city and designed by Leonardo Da Vinci.

The second day presented a less demanding climb, with just one ascent to Longiano offering breathtaking views across the region. Along the way, we encountered an intriguing tunnel carved into the rock, stretching from one side of the town to the other. Interestingly, this tunnel served as an air raid shelter during World War II.

Descending from the climb, we navigated through a series of smooth switchbacks, eventually arriving back in Cesenatico. Here, we revisited Hotel Lungomare and were once again impressed by its exceptional bike-friendly amenities. From secure storage to bike maintenance and washing facilities, the hotel offers everything a cyclist could need. Silvia, the hotelier, was incredibly helpful and charming, embodying the hospitality of the Lungomare establishment run by her family.

Cycling is deeply ingrained in Emelia Romana’s culture, boasting bike-friendly hotels offering excellent amenities, challenging yet enjoyable hills, exquisite cuisine, and picturesque hillside town.

Marco Pantani, the controversial cyclist, hails from Cesenatico. During our visit to the Pantani Museum, we explored the legacy of this celebrated figure in Emilia Romagna. Despite being a fallen hero, Pantani is viewed more as a victim of the system rather than a cynical doper. Here, I am pictured with his niece and his memorial located in the heart of Cesenatico.

The region is characterised by its expansive flat coastal area, extending from Veneto down to Marche, bordered by the swift SS 16 road and a developed Adriatic coastline strip. Having visited this area numerous times, often lodging in Cesenatico, I’ve experienced its charm firsthand.

Navigating the coastal region can be a challenge due to the bustling traffic, and in recent years, some road surfaces have deteriorated due to weather conditions. However, despite these challenges, the region hosts nine Granfondos, each offering exhilarating routes that typically start with a speedy jaunt to the hills before transitioning into challenging climbs, adding to the allure of cycling in this picturesque area. The most famous of these Granfondo’s is the Nove Colli or nine hills with the famous Barbotto climb with it’s murderous gradients and party atmosphere as your crest the climb.

For our third and final day I partook in the 27^th Club Fantini Granfondo from Cervia I was amazed at the speed and skill of the local riders who had come out in their thousands to ride the event.

When considering a destination for cyclists, this region boasts numerous appealing features. Along the coast, you’ll find a wide selection of local hotels catering to all preferences and budgets, ranging from luxurious accommodations to more budget-friendly options. Whether you’re seeking a unique experience or simply aiming for the classic “eat, sleep, cycle, repeat” routine, there’s something here for everyone.

While the coastal scenery may not rival some of Italy’s more renowned regions, and the infrastructure may not be as developed as some other European destinations for training camps, you’ll still discover plenty of options to suit your needs. The team at Terrabici will assist you with any arrangements you require, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay.

My time in the region left me with tired legs and a slightly weary head from burning the candle at both ends. However, it was an exhilarating experience, filled with camaraderie among my fellow  group of cyclists with whom I shared the experience from Lithuania, Ireland, Australia, Spain, Austria, and Italy. In the words of the admired British cycling heroine, Beryl Burton, “there’s nobody like cycling folk!”

FUTURE STATE VISIONING

Create the big-picture view of your year. When you imagine your upcoming season all the way through to the end (including feeling satisfied and successful) what does that look like? Have you completed a cycling challenge or taken part in a race? What is the big picture? Do you see yourself at the finish and experience the satisfied feeling knowing you’ve given it your best shot?

What does it mean for you to feel successful? Sometimes the successful self in your mind has had enough sleep, eats well and feels day-to-day satisfaction from sport and socialising. Maybe success for you means you’re happy with your body, pursuing passions and having enough time to spend with family and friends. Everyone is different here, but it’s essential to visualise who you are when you feel successful so that you understand your ideal ‘destination’ before you develop your goal and forge a path towards it.

SET YOUR GOALS

Professional runner Kara Goucher writes in her book, Strong, that good goals should consider attainability (challenge but don’t overwhelm), time (set reasonable deadlines and allow for process), flexibility (have a range of goals), inspiration (how do you want to feel) and process-focus (be mindful of the steps along the way). You can break your goals into two basic categories, quantifiable, specific, measurable goals; and non-specific, emotional, subjective process or global goals.

Specific goals could include race or event completion, race finish times, bike power numbers, pace, speed, weight and general workout consistency. Non-specific goals might include happiness with yourself, confidence, resilience, stress-management, contentment and general well-being. When you write your goals down, it can help to divide them into these two categories.

MAP YOUR ROUTE

After spending time breaking down your seasonal goals, it’s time to map your journey. An easy route is to anchor your season around races and events. Choose your events in advance and enter them into an annual training plan or calendar. 

Non-specific goals can be recorded in a document stored for easy access. Remember, the brain favours routine. In order to turn a goal into a habit you need to be consistent. It’s ok to share your goals with others if it motivates you. Your route should be fun! Sport is much more than a one-and-done activity—it’s a way of existing.

Remember, this is your journey. Define it, and then stand by it. Embrace the entire journey, celebrate success along the way, and you’ll most likely find yourself achieving goals, accepting challenges and occasional failures and feeling positive throughout.

Start 2023 right by visualising your own personal success, setting reasonable attainable specific and non-specific goals, and mapping a route that will wind you through some exciting, fun terrain on your journey to success! Have a great year!

The four key aspects of a successful bike rider are the technical, tactical, physical and psychological aspects. This means that some days it’s better to forget the training programme and just get out!  If the weather is even half decent, an endurance ride, keeping the power and heart rate within the all-important Zone 2 for a couple of hours is not too much of a chore.

If you have a mountain bike or gravel bike, get out and practice those skills on a trail; cornering, weight balance and picking your line through a complex technical piece of single track will help you in the summer when the trails  are dry and hard packed and you can whizz through them like a whirling Dervish.

Or alternatively, catch up with a mate for coffee. After all, what could have been a sweaty ride on a turbo trainer can turn into a day to enjoy smells, sights and sounds of winter whilst maintaining your fitness and enjoying society.

Make sure you keep an eye on the plan folks but just don’t be too officious about it!

SO WHAT IS ZONE 2? 

It’s at an intensity just below that mythical ‘lactate threshold’ and is associated with fat burning. It feels slightly uncomfortable – you can talk but in short bursts, you get warm, but your breathing is not laboured.

Remember that to increase the efficiency of your body you must train at the intensity where you burn the most fat! Most people train above their threshold and think that they need to feel exhausted at the end of a ride, but this is not true. It takes an incredible amount of discipline to resist training above your threshold and train at your zone 2.

Zone 2 training can have a dramatic effect on our overall heath. It does so by improving metabolic fitness and flexibility and is associated with the engines of your cells: the mitochondria and they need to be trained to process fat as a fuel and not glucose gained from carbohydrates and sugar.

But training zone 2 takes time effort and let’s face it in winter it can be miserable sitting on the bike for 2+ hrs often in the rain and in deep winter often in the cold. This is where the discipline comes in. 

Forget that endorphin high, forget sitting in a limited dynamic position on the turbo trainer. If you want the serious health benefits of an endurance sport such as cycling just get out and ride.

With the festive cheer upon us, when we socialise, eat, drink and be merry, now’s the time to get out for a couple of hours a week. Sure, let your hair down, it’s good for the soul. But remember it’s better to keep building that base rather than be the new year resolver ‘this year I’m going to get fit’!

Late autumn and early winter is the time to build your endurance and this means concentrating on Zone 2 riding! Zone 2 is the workhorse for riders and knowing your power and heart rate zones for this is key and focussing on this early on in the training year. Zone 2 endurance pace rides should have a duration of between 2-6 hours and be approximately 60-75% of your FTP. That horrible figure is your functional threshold or the power number you can hold approximately for an hour and it’s corresponding Heart Rate (FTHR).

In this zone your body tends to burn fat as opposed to glycogen and therefore is more sustainable than the higher zones. Training in this zone takes discipline and it will seem very easy. Don’t get drawn in to increase the zone – especially as your mate comes wizzing by deep in his/her anaerobic zone and you think ‘I’ll show him’!

Save the ego for the summer months and keep twiddling the pins at about 80-90 rpm cadence and within your Zone 2 and you will reap the rewards in the summer. Remember to make sure you are doing strength workouts too; squats in the gym or low cadence (50ish rpm) 20-50 second hill climb efforts builds this. 

At this time of year it’s time too look at the next 12 months… what do you want to achieve, where do you see yourself in October 2021? Work it out and look to develop periods of training depending on your next year’s goals.