As the peloton breezes through quaint villages and over breathtaking mountains, the Tour de France offers a captivating spectacle. Yet, for the uninitiated, the screen is filled with French phrases like “Arrière du peloton” and “Tête de la course”, which can leave viewers puzzled. These terms not only add a dash of cultural flavor but …
Category Archives: Cycling Glossary
What is a Satellite Rider? [Explained]
In the thrilling domain of 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 delve into the functions of …
What is a Puncheur in Cycling? [Explained]
The exhilarating world of cycling is populated with a variety of athletes, each bringing a unique set of skills and expertise to the race. Among them, a special category of road bicycle racer stands out, adept at navigating rolling terrains with short but steep climbs – the puncheur. This article aims to delve deeper into …
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What is Grupetto in cycling? [Autobus explained]
Beneath the exhilarating thrill of professional cycling lie layers of strategy and camaraderie that are often overlooked by the casual observer. One such example is the phenomenon of the Grupetto, also known as the Autobus. Stemming from Italian origins, the term Grupetto literally translates to a “small group,” while Autobus denotes a vehicle carrying many …
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Here’s why cyclists ride in a big bunch [peloton explained]
Professional road cycling is an intriguing mix of individual grit, team strategy, and a meticulous understanding of aerodynamics. Central to these elements is the formation known as the “peloton,” a French term meaning ‘platoon’ or ‘pack.’ It usually translates into English as the “main bunch”. In cycling, the peloton is the large group of cyclists …
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What is a domestique in cycling? [Explained]
A domestique 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 …
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What is the “Washing Machine Effect” in cycling? [Explained]
The “Washing Machine Effect” is a term used in cycling circles to illustrate the intense and dynamic nature of a bicycle race, specifically within the main group of riders known as the peloton. This phenomenon encapsulates the rapid shifts in positioning, abrupt changes in speed, and sudden strategy alterations that lead to a turbulent, swirling …
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