LIGHTER, FASTER, STRONGER

With the advent of technology, the Tour has seen a few drastic changes in the last century. Where the sixty cyclists in the first Tour rode out on heavy steel frames, riders now ride carbon fibre bikes with electronic gears.

ALL ABOUT THE BIKE

The streamlined bikes are designed to reduce air resistance. The designers have shifted from round-tube frames to oval or tear-shaped frames, maintaining a good power-toweight ratio, while improving aerodynamic efficiency. The minimum weight of the bike has been set at 6.8 kg by the Union Cycliste Internationale for safety reasons. To reduce turbulence around the body, riders wear teardrop-shaped aerodynamic helmets, and a one-piece tight fitting skin suit.

GEARS

Manual gears are on the decline as riders are now able to shift gears at the push of a button. The electronic switches change gears faster and produce less wear on the chain chain.

FRAME

It is made of advanced carbon fibre material, instead of titanium or steel, to drop the overall weight while increasing rigidity.

HANDLEBAR

Bike handlebars use titanium or carbon to bolster the performance. Designers favour hollow, drop handlebars to eliminate barriers to airflow.

WHEELS

They are ultra light and have a carbon fibre hub and rims to keep the weight to a minimum. The wheels weigh a combined 1.2 kg.

SHOES

Instead of having to keep their feet in slots on the pedals, riders wear special carbon-soled shoes that lock into them.