Achouba from Lxivya: what you need to know

Difficulty analysis: A short but brutal climb, rated HC due to a severe average gradient of 9.4%. The difficulty lies in the string of eight kilometres above 10% between KM 1.0 and 5.5, with sections at 12% that are particularly punishing. The easier finish (KM 6.5-7.0 at 3%) doesn't take away from the toughness of the core of the climb.

Effort management tips:

1. Pace control from the start is essential: The first kilometres (0.5-2.5) ramp up steadily from 5% to 12%. Don't go too hard on the "easy" stretches or you'll burn your matches before the hard part.

2. Hold a steady rhythm through the middle section: The stretch from KM 1.5 to KM 5.5 (4 km at 10-12%) is where the climb is won or lost. Find a sustainable cadence and stick to it, and don't chase every surge.

3. Use the final section to recover: The last 500m at 3% gives you a chance to ease off a touch and save something for a late dig if you have it left.