VELO BIRMINGHAM
161km
Distance
880m
Elevation
2
Climbs
Moderate
Difficulty
Course Overview
One of the UK's biggest mass-participation cycling events, Velo Birmingham sends thousands of riders through closed roads across the West Midlands. The route is predominantly flat with some gentle Worcestershire hills — making it an achievable first century for newer cyclists — but the atmosphere and scale of the event give it real appeal for experienced riders too. A great step-up from shorter sportives or a fast day out.
Key Climbs
CLENT HILLS
4.2km · avg 7% gradient
294m
Summit
Sustained gradient — settle into a rhythm
LICKEY HILLS
3.5km · avg 8.3% gradient
290m
Summit
Steep — stay seated, keep cadence high
Typical Finish Times
Based on FTP, weekly training volume and previous event experience.
Elite
3–3:30h
Racing category, high FTP
Advanced
3:30–4:30h
Structured training, 10+ hrs/wk
Intermediate
4:30–5:30h
Regular training, 7–10 hrs/wk
Beginner
5:30–8h
First big event, 5–8 hrs/wk
Event Type
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Quick Facts
- Distance
- 161km
- Elevation
- 880m
- Location
- Birmingham, Midlands
- Country
- England
- Typical month
- September
- Key climbs
- 2
- Difficulty
- 2/5 — Moderate
Training Advice
Want a training plan built around Velo Birmingham? Ask Roadman for periodisation advice, pacing strategy or nutrition guidance for this specific event.
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