When I was at college in the mid 80s I went to stay with a mate in Nelson for the weekend and his dad was riding the 3 Peaks so we went to watch. I had, quite literally, never seen anything like it and the idea that I would someday take part seemed ridiculous, farcical even. But in 2009, 20 odd years later, I found myself on the start line. A great event that really deserves it's status on many cyclist's 'to do' lists (I would have had another go in 2010 but it clashed with OWMTBC).
kaiser":14msmi4q said:
How hard do you rate it? Comparable to anything else you've done? Did you enjoy it?
That's a tricky one to answer I guess depending on whether you want a time or are competing just to finish. As above, Superstrong Geoff has multiple very high up finishes so is the chap to speak to for racing advice but I can offer something from my 'get round' approach.
Bike I used a bike I'd had for a year. I used Schwalbe Landcruisers at 80 psi, the generally recommended tyre even if pressure a bit high. I had no mishaps at all. To be honest gear choice is probably irrelevant due to the steepness of the climbs but for what it is worth I used a compact chainset and a biggish cassette and the only modification for the event was to add some pipe lagging at the top tube/seat tube junction. From photos and the 3 Peaks forum this seems a sound approach and certainly makes the carrying a bit more comfortable which leads to...
Training I didn't do anything specific but was running and racing cross country at the time so was fairly accustomed to going up longish hills on foot. I would recommend walking/running up hills. I only practiced carrying a bike a few times which was probably foolhardy but I was ok on the day. Do be prepared to carry as you will have to on each of the ascents, probably for some time even if you are a very strong rider.
On the day I don't usually have a Camelback but needing water and also to carry a waterproof jacket I decided to go with one rather than have a bottle bounce out. In 2009 the conditions were generally dry although Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent were in cloud and the descent of Whernside was over greasy flagstones even if they were not actually wet. I'm guessing conditions have a serious impact but if you're aiming to finish then steady is the order of the day (and the start is FAST! I was miles back but still got held up on the first climb which was by far the steepest.).
So how fit do you need to be to get round? I don't think you have to be seriously fit to finish but you do need to be able to keep plugging away over several hours; I managed to get round despite my aversion to riding downhill whenever it can be avoided. I can't really compare it to other events as it is genuinely unique, but in general I didn't find it any more or less tiring than a sportive ridden with a degree of determination. Aiming for a time may well be another thing though.
Perhaps the best I can say about the 3 Peaks is that I plan to have another go. And with so many 'must do's around, there aren't many events I'd say that about. I seriously doubt that you will be disappointed.