In a double-blind randomized design, patients with GOLD stage II-III COPD will be recruited and will complete a constant-workrate cycling test following either the injection of a placebo [NaCl, interspinous L2-L3] or an opioid [Fentanyl 25 µg, intrathecal L2-L3] inhibiting central feedback of peripheral muscles sensory afferents. Quadriceps force (TwQ) will be measured by magnetic stimulation of the femoral nerve and central chemoreceptors response will be assessed by CO2 rebreathing, both performed before and after the injection. Finally, TwQ will also be measured after the endurance cycling test to assess the magnitude of quadriceps fatigue induced by symptom-limited exercise.