Climbing to Glory: Harry MacFarlane’s Wild Ride in Matlock’s Hill Climb
As the UK hill climb season reaches its thrilling peak this weekend, all eyes are on Matlock, Derbyshire. Over 400 cyclists are gearing up to conquer Bank Road, an intimidating 834-meter climb that boasts an average gradient of 11%. But beware! The final stretch kicks up to a staggering 22%. This race isn’t just about endurance; it’s about pitting your grit against one of the toughest terrains.
A Race Unlike Any Other
Unlike many cycling events governed by global federations like the UCI, the UK hill climbs are organized by the CTT (Cycling Time Trials). This means traditional rules around bike specifications are tossed out the window. Forget about weight limits—so long as your bike has a helmet and working lights, you’re good to go. This relaxed approach opens the door to some seriously innovative—and occasionally wacky—bike builds.
One of the most talked-about bikes this year belongs to defending champion Harry MacFarlane. Last year, he shocked everyone by winning on an aging 2008 Cervélo RS, adorned with artwork made from paint pens. This year, he’s back, showcasing a brand-new ride that is equally eye-catching and slightly insane.
The ‘MAC’ Machine
I caught up with Harry as he prepared for his big day, making final reps up the notorious Bank Road under the warm autumn sun. This time, Harry has ditched his classic ride and opted for a remarkably unique Trek Emonda. Stripped of its usual paint job, this bike is packed with custom parts. Most impressively, the word “MAC” proudly displays on the downtube, made from ultra-light carbon fiber. I couldn’t help but ask him why he would go to such lengths for a few grams of weight savings.
“Why not?” he quipped, grinning. For Harry, the thrill lies in the challenge, making this bike not just a tool for racing, but a statement of his passion for the sport.
Inside the Build
Harry’s setup is a feast for those who love geeky bike tech. He has cleverly bonded different components, resulting in an incredibly lightweight rig that weighs only 4.8 kg—featherlight by any standard. Plus, he has no internal cable routing, which simplifies maintenance but keeps the bike sleek. His unique chainring and cassette setup help him tackle the steep climbs effectively.
His saddle is a mix of two broken models, giving it a renewed purpose. And yes, even the lights were thoughtful; a mod that fits regulations while keeping weight to the bare minimum.
Insights from the Climb
For aspiring hill climbers, this weekend serves as a great reminder that customization can be part of the fun, too. While it’s easy to get bogged down by industry standards, sometimes a personal touch can make all the difference. Pay attention to what feels right for you and your ride, and don’t be afraid to experiment—like Harry!
Final Thoughts
As Harry and his fellow competitors prepare to tackle Bank Road, one thing is clear: hill climbing is about passion, ingenuity, and a bit of craziness. Whether you’re a competitor or a weekend rider, there’s no better time to challenge yourself. So embrace the hills, trust your bike, and who knows? Maybe next year, you could be the one taking on the climb—and maybe even stealing a few tales of your own to share. Happy cycling!
Original article: Click here
