Originally Posted by
caloso
I've done it twice and I really have to amplify what terrymorse said. It is absolutely a bucket-list ride and an amazing achievement. It's also a real slog. Do long climbs as often as you can; the longer the better. Also, you'll benefit from long, steady efforts. Hours long steady efforts.
Absolutely! Climbing and more climbing is the only way to be prepared for this. No amount of flat riding will get you ready. I tried that and failed.