how hard IS a century?

[Starfish]

I think that depends in part on how the elevation gain is distributed. I did a near-century this past weekend with about 6300 ft of climbing, but about 4000 ft was in the first 35 miles. I was a bit whupped for the rest of the ride.

But yes, if the climbing is somewhat spred out, I agree with you.

Yep, distribution really matters to me, too. I can climb a 5% grade all day long, if it is a sustained climb.

But, up down, up down, up down tires me out WAY faster, especially if the hills get up into the teen%s.

And, for me, doing my ab & lower back work VERY routinely has made a huge differenc in my long distance comfort on the bike.