RIDERS took on and conquered Lavers Hill in the Great Victorian Bike Ride today.

This was the stage most riders feared - a 20km climb up the Otway Ranges most well-known hill.

But most found the morning’s climb well within their capabilities, with few resorting to the sag wagon, which collects riders unable to complete the stage.

Plus there were plenty of sights to take in as they passed Loch Ard Gorge and the famous 12 Apostles.

From Lavers Hill it was mostly downhill to Apollo Bay to complete the 97km stage.

The riders will spend tomorrow in Apollo Bay before they tackle the 78km stage to Anglesea on Friday.

Organisers say there have been few problems on the ride, with the rain of the first three days forgotten.

Today’s ride completed in perfect conditions.

The ride finishes in Geelong on Sunday.