MAAP CAAMP 2026

Cobbles and Connection

Julian from enroute.cc travelled to Lille, France for MAAP CAAMP 2026, a global dealer gathering built around one of cycling’s most iconic weekends, Paris Roubaix.

What followed was five days of riding, learning, and connecting with MAAP staff and retailers from around the world, all set against the backdrop of the cobbles.

As our original apparel partner, the relationship between enroute.cc and MAAP runs deep. Being invited into this environment, getting an early look at upcoming collections, and spending time with the people behind the brand is something we do not take lightly. Next year’s line feels like a step forward across the board, with thoughtful updates, refined fits, and a continued push on performance and design.

The riding across northern France and into Belgium was a highlight in itself. From smooth city bike paths in Lille, to quiet canal roads and wide open farmland, the terrain constantly shifted. And then, of course, the cobbles.

We rode multiple sectors from Paris Roubaix, including Carrefour de l’Arbre, the final five star sector of the race. It is difficult to fully describe until you experience it yourself. The stones are uneven, relentless, and unforgiving. Your hands go numb, your line choice becomes everything, and the bike feels like it is fighting back. It makes you appreciate just how hard this race really is, especially when you think about the equipment riders used in the past.

Witnessing Paris Roubaix as a North American adds another layer to that experience. The crowds line the sectors hours in advance, with caravans and campers packed along the roadside, music playing and flags waving. It feels more like a festival than a race. Then it arrives all at once. The speed, the noise, and the sheer power of the riders as they tear across the cobbles is hard to comprehend. What looks chaotic on screen becomes something entirely different up close. It is one of those experiences every cyclist should have at least once.

Later in the week, we crossed into Belgium to take on the steep, punchy cobbled climbs of the Tour of Flanders. Riding the Koppenberg and Oude Kwaremont brought a different kind of challenge. Short, sharp, and brutally technical, they demand power, control, and a bit of luck.

Beyond the riding, what stood out most was the people. CAAMP brings together a global community that shares a common passion for cycling and culture. Conversations flowed just as easily as the kilometres, and it was clear that MAAP is continuing to build something much bigger than just apparel.

We are proud to represent and carry MAAP at enroute.cc and are grateful for the opportunity to be part of CAAMP 2026. A special thank you to everyone at MAAP, including Ian, Belo, Pete, Ulrich, Jamie, Hamish, and Luke for making the week what it was.

To leading from the front.