101 East
If you are looking for a flat and fast ride, or even your first 100km, this eastern route is a great choice. 101 East is inspired by my Southeast Classic but removes all of the unpaved sections. While that route doesn’t require anything more than a road bike, it’s not ideal if it’s raining or has rained recently, so this is another great option when you want to get out east without worrying about muddy roads.
The route starts like most rides to the south or east, with a classic Marne Loop departure and 18km of mostly separated bike path before you cut across the river. You then climb up to Sucy-en-Brie, which is the only real climb of the route at just 1km and 5%. From there, the route cuts south to avoid the unpaved roads of Forêt Domaniale de Notre-Dame before continuing east towards Tournan-en-Brie. Once you get out that way, the roads open up and you get a nice mix of farmland, small villages, and forest with relatively little traffic.
The route then heads back north towards Chessy before arcing east to Château de Champs-sur-Marne. From there, you drop down to the Marne and settle into 15km of bike path heading back towards Bois de Vincennes. The route leaves the park to the north and brings you back along Avenue Daumesnil to the café for a well-earned coffee or whatever your post-ride drink of choice is.
Like this route? Help us support site costs by buying us a coffee!
Comments