The legend of Roubaix

The Paris-Roubaix race started its life in the early-morning light of April 19, 1896 as a light race run through cobblestone passages. About 50 riders left Paris to ride 280km and, despite a fall on the way, it was German rider Josef Fischer, who emerged as the winner – his injuries were forgotten as he celebrated with a glass of champagne and flowers.

The tougher the better for Eddy Merckx. The Belgian legend once said: "It's a very difficult race and as a rider you have to suffer there." Mercky thrived on the cobblestones where he was able to fully utilize his power. He won the race three times, in 1968, 70 and 73 and finished second twice.

... is the route itself. The cobblestones of northern France have, in the most part, long since ceased to exist. But thanks to heritage protection laws there are some, the forest of Arenberg for example, that have been painstakingly preserved. These parts of the route have the same job as ever - to inflict pain on those who ride them.

Although it comes too early in the race to truly determine the winner, this legendary 2400 meter long, three meter wide cobblestone forest stretch can determine those who will be in contention and those who will fall by the wayside.

All the riders will end every day with complaints. Some will be of the standard variety - aching legs, arms and hand but it's the falls that can really hurt, both physically and competitively.

Tall, muscular and with great control, Fabian Cancellara seems to have been made for the pavement. The three-time winner is likely to be in contention again this time round.

For 120 years, Germany waited for a champion in this race. In 2015 John Degenkolb broke the drought. Fresh from a triumph in Milan, he'll be hoping to win back his title this year.