What is the name of the bicycle race known as the Hell of the North?

The bicycle race known as the Hell of the North is Paris–Roubaix.

Paris–Roubaix is a one-day classic in northern France, famous for its rough pavé, or cobbled roads. The race traditionally begins near Paris and finishes in the Roubaix Velodrome, although modern start locations have varied. Its nickname reflects the punishing surfaces, mud, crashes, weather, and mechanical failures that can shape the result.

The event was first held in 1896 and is one of cycling’s five Monuments. Important cobbled sectors include the Trouée d’Arenberg, Mons-en-Pévèle, and Carrefour de l’Arbre. Each sector receives a difficulty rating, with the hardest sections having a major influence on the race’s selection.

Paris–Roubaix is not a stage race and does not award an overall classification across multiple days. It is also distinct from the Tour of Flanders, another Monument centred on cobbles but known more for short, steep Flemish climbs. The race’s famous trophy is a small cobblestone presented to the winner.