Categories
History and Legends

Fausto Coppi in Africa [A Very Rare Photo]

The last photograph of Fausto Coppi as a healthy man was taken shortly before his tragic and premature death on January 2, 1960, 65 years ago. Captured during his stay in Africa, just 10 days before his passing, the image shows the ‘Campionissimo’ immersed in the wild, untouched nature. He is seen resting, with a curious gaze toward a crocodile not far from him.

Categories
Races

Jacques Anquetil During the 1965 Bordeaux-Paris

The Bordeaux-Paris was a unique and grueling competition, distinguished by the use of a dernys (motorized pacing bicycles) in the second half of the race. First held in 1891 and last run in 1988, it holds a revered place in cycling history as one of the oldest and most prestigious races on the international calendar. It is remembered particularly for two remarkable circumstances: it is one of only two major “mythical” races that Eddy Merckx, widely regarded as the greatest cyclist of all time, never won (the other being Paris-Tours). Additionally, the race is celebrated for the extraordinary victory of Jacques Anquetil in 1965.

Categories
Bicycles and Equipment Cyclists and Teams Races

Colnago Unveils New Aero Bike for Tadej Pogačar and UAE Team Emirates: Colnago Y1Rs

In the world of professional cycling, where mere seconds can determine victory or defeat, every technological advancement counts. Colnago, a name synonymous with cycling excellence, has just unveiled its latest innovation: an all-new aero bike designed for UAE Team Emirates and their star rider, Tadej Pogačar. This new release marks a significant milestone for Colnago, which had long faced criticism for not having a competitive aero bike in its lineup. With promises of improved aerodynamics, greater stiffness, and enhanced efficiency, this cutting-edge machine is set to redefine speed and performance on the road. As cycling fans eagerly await its debut in the upcoming season, the question remains: Could this be the bike that gives UAE Team Emirates the edge they need to dominate the peloton again this year?

Categories
Cycling Glossary Races

What is a Domestique in Cycling? [Explained]

A domestique (domestic) is a rider in professional road cycling who works for the benefit of their team and leader, rather than trying to win the race. The term is derived from French and translates to “servant”. The roles of a domestique may include setting the pace to tire out rivals, providing slipstreams for team leaders to ride in, chasing breakaway riders, providing mechanical or physical assistance, and carrying supplies like water and food from the team car during the race.

Categories
UCI Worlds Races

Complete List of UCI Elite Men Road Race World Champions

The UCI Road World Championships are the annual world championships for bicycle road racing organized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). Here’s the complete list of the UCI Elite Men Road Race World Champions.

The first professional world championship took place in July 1927 at the Nürburgring in Germany, where legendary Italian Alfredo Binda won the professional men’s race.

Categories
Races Cycling Glossary Tour de France

What is a Satellite Rider? [Explained]

In professional cycling, understanding the tactical interplay and roles within a team is crucial to comprehending the overall dynamics of the race. Among these roles, the job of a “satellite rider” is particularly interesting and instrumental in shaping the course of a race. Here we will explore the functions of a satellite rider, explain their strategic value, and illuminate their impact on the race.

Categories
Tour de France Bicycles and Equipment History and Legends Races

Tour de France Winner Groupsets [Year by Year, from 1937 to 2024]

Tour de France is the world’s most popular and prestigious bicycle race. Wining “the Tour” is a great victory for cyclists, as well as groupset producers. Here are the Tour de France Winner Groupsets, since 1937, year by year (also the average speeds of each year’s winner).

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Paris-Roubaix Classics History and Legends Races

Top 18 fastest Paris-Roubaix editions

Here are the top 18 fastest Paris-Roubaix editions – the winner, average speed, winning time, and weather conditions.

The average speed of the fastest Paris-Roubaix ever (2024 edition) was 47.8 km/h (29.7 mph), won by the Dutch cyclist Mathieu van der Poel of Alpecin-Deceuninck.

Categories
Tour de France History and Legends Races

Col de Tourmalet [Amazing photo from the 1953 Tour de France]

An amazing photo from the 1953 Tour de France: Atop the misty heights of the Col du Tourmalet, a legendary pass in the challenging Pyrenees, thousands of enthusiastic spectators eagerly gathered. Their anticipation reached a fever pitch as a group of cyclists burst into view, swiftly traversing the mountainous terrain.

Categories
Paris-Roubaix Classics History and Legends Races

Bernard Hinault and Francesco Moser, 1981 Paris-Roubaix

A beautiful photo of the two cycling giants: Bernard Hinault and Francesco Moser, during the 1981 Paris-Roubaix. The photo was taken by Albert Van Donghe. Hinault won the race prevailing in front of former four times winner Roger De Vlaeminck and reigning triple winner Francesco Moser on a rainy and muddy day. Ironically, Paris-Roubaix was the race that Bernard Hinault hated the most and despite that, he managed to win with the world champion’s rainbow jersey on his back.