Evenepoel Kicks Off Season with Babantic Arrow; Pidcock, Van Aert to Challenge
Brabantse Pijl Kicks Off Ardennes Classics Season
Table of Contents
- Brabantse Pijl Kicks Off Ardennes Classics Season
- Brabantse Pijl: Your Questions Answered
- What is the Brabantse Pijl?
- When and where is the 2025 Brabantse Pijl held?
- What is the course like?
- can you give me more details on the key climbs?
- What time does the race finish?
- Who are the riders to watch in this year’s race?
- Why is the Brabantse Pijl significant?
- Where can I see highlights from previous races?
OVERIJSE, Belgium (April 18, 2025) — The Brabantse pijl, also known as the Brabant Arrow, marks a pivotal transition in the spring cycling calendar, bridging the gap between the Flemish classics and the Ardennes week. Traditionally held on Wednesday, the race has shifted to Friday, a change initially made to avoid conflict with the Ronde van Limburg, which features a similar profile.
Course and Key Details
| Day | Date | Race | Distance | Approximate Finish | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fri | April 18 |  |
Beersel > Overijse | 162 km | 5:10 p.m. |
Profile: 1,700 meters of elevation gain (© La-Flamme-Rouge.eu)
Riders to Watch
The Brabantse Pijl frequently enough provides opportunities for lesser-known cyclists to shine, as major stars frequently skip this Ardennes opener. Benoit Cosnefroy emerged victorious last year. This year’s race is notable as Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Fast-Step) chose it to mark the start of his season after a fall disrupted his winter training. He faces competition from Wout Van Aert (Visma Lease a Bike) and Tom Pidcock (Q36.5), both considered top contenders in the Ardennes classics.
Key Climbs on the Final Circuit (Repeated Three Times)
- Hertstraat: 700 meters (300 meters of cobblestones); 4.7% average gradient
- Moskesstraat: 500 meters (all cobblestones); 9.2% average gradient
- Holstheide: 1,000 meters; 5.3% average gradient
- S-Boch: 1,300 meters, 4.2% average gradient, with a maximum of 10% near the finish line.
Video Highlights
Relive the excitement of last year’s race.
Brabantse Pijl: Your Questions Answered
Ready to dive into the Brabantse Pijl, also known as the Brabant Arrow? This race marks a crucial point in the cycling season, bridging the gap between the Flemish classics and the Ardennes week. Here’s everything you need to know, answered in a Q&A format.
What is the Brabantse Pijl?
The Brabantse Pijl is a professional cycling race held annually in Belgium.It’s a one-day race that’s part of the spring classics season, setting the stage for the more challenging Ardennes classics that follow.
When and where is the 2025 Brabantse Pijl held?
The 2025 race will be held on Friday, April 18th. The race typically starts in Beersel and finishes in Overijse, Belgium.
What is the course like?
The race covers a distance of 162 km. The course includes significant elevation gain,with an estimated 1,700 meters. As the race progresses, a final circuit featuring several key climbs becomes the focus.
can you give me more details on the key climbs?
Here are the key climbs of the final circuit, which are repeated three times:
- Hertstraat: 700 meters (300 meters of cobblestones); 4.7% average gradient
- Moskesstraat: 500 meters (all cobblestones); 9.2% average gradient
- Holstheide: 1,000 meters; 5.3% average gradient
- S-Boch: 1,300 meters, 4.2% average gradient, with a maximum of 10% near the finish line.
These climbs frequently enough dictate the race’s outcome.
What time does the race finish?
the approximate finish time is 5:10 p.m. local time.
Who are the riders to watch in this year’s race?
The Brabantse Pijl frequently enough provides opportunities for less-known cyclists to shine, as some major stars may skip it. However, this year is particularly intriguing. Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Fast-Step) is making his season debut after a winter training disruption. He’ll face competition from Wout Van Aert (Visma Lease a Bike) and Tom Pidcock (Q36.5), both considered top contenders for the ardennes classics.
Why is the Brabantse Pijl significant?
The Brabantse Pijl is a key race for several reasons: It offers a bridge between the Flemish classics and the Ardennes classics. It is indeed frequently enough a platform for emerging talent.it’s a test of endurance and skill on a challenging course.
Where can I see highlights from previous races?
Relive the excitement from last year’s race: