IRONMAN Coeur d'Alene Bike Review

An important part in preparing for an Ironman is being mentally ready. One of the aspects to help with that is knowing what the course is like. In doing so, you can ride similar courses to prepare, you can visualize what is in store, you can study and review data files and elevation charts so you can better prepare for what you are going up against.

I am heading back to Coeur d'Alene this year, having raced last year I feel I have a much better understanding of the course and what it takes.

I am going to share some of my data from last year. Including distance and grades for some of the climbs that you should be aware of in preparing for IM CDA.

Here is a link to one-loop of the course mapped out in Training Peaks: CLICK HERE

#1: First climb on bike (also on run) course @ mile 4.6 & 60.2

#2: First big climb on HWY 95 @ mile 18.2 & 73.6

#3: Back side of big climb on HWY 95 @ mile 46.5 & 102

#1: First climb on bike (also on run) course @ mile 4.6 & 60.2

Distance: .59 miles

Grade: 5.9%

Elevation Gain: 184 ft

Elevation Loss: 0 ft

TIPS: This first climb is short but it is early in the ride and watching your HR/Power/Effort is key. Make sure not to overdo this first hill. Doing so can cause a big negative impact on race.

#2: : First big climb on HWY 95 @ mile 18.2 & 73.6

Distance: 1.75 miles

Grade: 5.9%

Elevation Gain: 903 ft

Elevation Loss: -360  ft

TIPS: First long climb heading south on HWY 95.  You can see this one coming. Know and get ready. It took me 10:50 to climb at 9.68 mph, it is slow and it is long. Be prepared. 

#3: Back side of big climb on HWY 95 @ mile 46.5 & 102

Distance: 3.54 miles

Grade: 2.7%

Elevation Gain: 539 ft

Elevation Loss: -39  ft

TIPS: The back side of the big climb heading north on HWY 95. This is a longer but less steep climb. It took me 17:29 to climb at 12.16 mph. Find your rhythm and keep the legs moving. 

Also, here is link to my 2013 Ironman CDA Post Race Report: CLICK HERE

If you have any questions about the course, where to stay, travel, etc please feel free to email me at sandy@triattic.com