Thrills and Hills: The Grueling Challenge of Pittsburgh's Dirty Dozen Bike Race

In the heart of Pittsburgh, there’s a race that redefines the concept of a cycling challenge – the Dirty Dozen. This isn’t your typical Sunday morning ride; it’s a grueling ascent up twelve of the city’s steepest hills, testing the limits of even the most seasoned cyclists.

The Dirty Dozen: A Test of Grit and Gears

The Dirty Dozen is a unique and fascinating race format. Instead of a traditional mass start, riders tackle the course in waves, pedaling softly between hills and sprinting up the climbs, reminiscent of a reverse enduro race. This approach adds a tactical element to the race, where strategy and stamina play crucial roles.

The Intensity of the Climb

The course is nothing short of brutal. Twelve intense climbs push riders to their physical and mental limits. The race’s demanding nature was starkly highlighted when one competitor ended up in the hospital with an abnormal heartbeat – a testament to the challenge posed by the Dirty Dozen.

A Steep Street Specialist: Mitch Boyer

The event attracted the attention of Youtuber Mitch Boyer, renowned for his penchant for tackling steep streets. Boyer’s presence at the Dirty Dozen wasn’t just for coverage; he added his twist by including a 13th street to the already demanding course. His reputation as a master of steep ascents was put to the test against Pittsburgh’s formidable slopes.

The Controversy of Steepness Records

Interestingly, the race also sheds light on the surprisingly contentious issue of determining the world’s steepest street. A street in New Zealand, for instance, lost and then regained its title as the World’s Steepest Street following a change in measurement methodology. The debate underscores the seriousness with which these records are regarded.