- Distance: 3.03km ; Elevation: 256m
- Average Gradient 8%
On heading uphill out of Aberdare, riders will be confronted by one of the steepest sections of tarmac they have ever seen. Despite hardly being known outside the Welsh valleys, there aren’t many hills more challenging than Bryn Du in the UK. The steepest parts of the climb will confront riders before leaving the edge of town, so it’s advisable not to push too early.
Riders should not be fooled by the 5 percent average gradient. The first 3km has a gradient well into double figures. A wide right-hand bend will signify the end of the hardest part of this unforgiving climb which is followed by 2km of relatively flat ground before riders reach the summit.