Video: Mike Cotty and The Col Collective hit Colorado’s gravel

The latest video from Mike Cotty and the Col Collective marks a departure from the usual format, since it doesn’t focus on a specific climb, but rather a loop around Boulder, Colorado – a location that in terms of pro cyclists per square kilometre can only perhaps be rivalled by Girona in Spain.

“Time to shift gears a little, and there's no way we were going to pass up the chance to check out Boulder's classic roads and dirt tracks, especially when accompanied by two local heroes,” said Cotty.

Those were 2012 US national champion Timmy Duggan and former Team HTC-Highroad rider Craig Lewis.

Giving his thanks to the pair, Cotty said they are lucky enough to “live in one of the best places I've been fortunate to explore so far.

“One day I'll be back. Until then, I hope you enjoy the ride as much as I did.”

Here’s what he had to say about the day’s riding:

Starting downtown from Vecchio's (which is quite possibly the coolest bike shop there is) a 60-mile loop lay ahead, taking in Super Flagstaff Road, Gross Dam, Gap Road and not to mention a few ‘Timmy Treats’ along the way.

Although there wasn't one climb to really focus on don't think that means it's any easier, oh no.

It seemed like the road spent a disproportionate amount of time pointing towards the sky and spending the day at an altitude that rivals the highest peaks in Europe was always going to be a ride to remember.

Oh … not to mention the gravel. Long live the dirt road!

Vital statistics:

Start: Vecchio's, Boulder
Length: 61 miles (98km)
Highest point: 9,161ft (2,792m)
Elevation gain: 8,005ft (2,440m)
Ridden in September

Find all the Col Collective coverage on road.cc here.