Vingtetun

Vingtetun is a French term that literally translates to "twenty-one." While it can simply refer to the number itself, in the context of cycling, it denotes a specific type of hill or climb. A vingtetun climb is characterized by its steepness, often featuring gradients exceeding 20%, and can be significantly challenging for cyclists. These climbs are not necessarily long, but their severe incline demands considerable physical exertion and technical skill to ascend.

The term is often used colloquially by cyclists to describe particularly brutal ascents they encounter, especially in mountainous regions or during races. The difficulty associated with such steep gradients means that riders often have to adopt a very low gear and maintain a consistent, high cadence to keep moving forward. The physical strain on the legs and cardiovascular system is immense, making vingtetun climbs a true test of a cyclist's strength and endurance.

While there is no official classification system for vingtetun climbs, the designation is understood within the cycling community as an indicator of extreme difficulty. Cyclists may seek out these challenging ascents for training purposes or as a personal goal to overcome. The achievement of conquering a vingtetun climb is often a source of pride and a testament to a cyclist's dedication and fitness. The visual of a cyclist struggling up such a steep incline is iconic in cycling imagery.