The Taiwan KOM is a famous 105km course that begins at sea level before climbing a total of 3,275m. The climb is made up of intricate twists, leg-burning gradients and rugged mountain views. These features, and the high altitude, combine to give the KOM it’s esteemed reputation. The fastest ever completion of the Taiwan KOM is 3:19:15 and was recorded by none other than Italy’s Vincenzo Nibali in 2o17. The acclaimed rider later said that he has “never ridden such a long and hard climb before in (his) entire life”.
You don’t have to be a Tour level cyclist to enjoy the Taiwan KOM. Every year, 600 amateur riders take on the challenge and conquer the mountain with the help of our experienced guides and the support of those around you. This trip is fully hosted and, in the lead up to the big race, you will be guided around the beautiful region on bike and on foot. The years of experience that our guides in Taiwan have will ensure that you are in perfect physical and mental condition going into the race on Day 6 of your trip.
Today you will meet your guides and the rest of the group at the Les Suites hotel. Here, there will be a pre-tour meeting and you will be briefed on the week ahead. Explore the area and taste the local cuisines before resting up for the first day of riding tomorrow.
You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and taken to the rural area of Fuxing. You will begin the ride with a short spell through the rolling and scenic hills. From there, the climbing gradually introduces itself as you ride parallel to the forests, moss and ferns that give the area a unique, Jurassic feel.
You’ll jump on a transfer at the start of day 3 to keep the legs rested. Once on the bike, you’ll begin with a short descent before climbing up to 1900m, following the North Cross Island highway. The exotic forest will, once again, provide you with exceptional views and the air will be clear and fresh. Spend the night in a special region of Taiwan where, in 1960, veterans were resettled as farmers. You will notice that this area has been oriented towards the tourism and agriculture industry. Spend the night in the charming Wuling Guest House.
Jump on a transfer again this morning before a short riding day of 20km. You will begin at 2,000m and climb up to 3,275 by the end of the day. Along the route you’ll be introduced to the final 8km section of the official Taiwan KOM, an exercise that will come in useful on race day.
You will either ride or transfer the 90km downhill to Taroko Gorge back at sea level. Here, you’ll settle into Crossing the Rainbow Bridge Guest House where you will be based for the next 3 nights.
Spend the day relaxing off the bike before the big KOM Challenge tomorrow. Enjoy some hiking in Taroko Gorge and visit the Siangde Temple that offers spectacular views of the valley. Following this, you will be guided through the Tunnel of Nine Turns trail, the original road through the Gorge. There are a number of exciting places to explore in the area so we’ll let you decide on the day.
The Riders Meeting and Welcome Party are also today. This is when you’ll realise what you’ve signed up for!
Today is the day! Your race entry fee and registration will be handled by your tour guide so you can focus on the race ahead.
The race begins at 6am where you’ll embark on the 105km ride up 3275m. Ease into the climb with a 0-2% gradient for 20kms before merging into a 6% ascent. This will continue until the final 9.5km where the real test begins and you’ll traverse gradients from 10-22%. As you take on the final hairpins, you will come to the realisation that you have successfully tackled one of the most prestigious climbs in cycling.
Following the competition of the race, a van will take you back down to your hotel where you’ll enjoy a well deserved dinner with your fellow riders.
A group transfer will be organised for your trip back to the airport. If you wish to extend your stay, just let us know and this can also be arranged.
Taiwan’s Jurassic landscape makes it a remarkable place to cycle. As you take on the KOM challenge you’ll be greeted by untouched rain forests, magnificent mountain ranges and unparalleled coastal routes. This only touches on the surface of the islands diverse landscape. The scenery at sea level is unrecognisable in comparison to the views that await you at 3275m. Here, the never ending valleys combine with the turquoise waters to create an environment that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in the world.
