THE TOUR AND TECHNOLOGY

Since 1903, the basic premise of the Tour de France has remained the same ame - the rider who covers the route in the least accumulated time across all stages ges wins. But technology has undergone a change. Here’s a quick look at this year’s’s edition:

COBBLE PROBLEM

To counter the cobbled streets in the earlier stages, teams have used bicycle frames that are different from those used on tarmac or asphalt. The bikes are longer to help smoothen the ride. Riders will use extra padded bar tape and wider tyres to absorb the vibrations. Extra brake levers help to stop quickly. To maximise speed and control, riders often ride in the middle of these sections.

BOTTLE VEST

It’s worn by a designated rider of the team and can load up to seven bottles. Earlier, the water carrier used to hand the bottles to his teammates which has caused crashes, but now the rider just pedals back and lets them take the bottle while he rides alongside.

BIKE-CAMS

This is the first year that riders have been allowed to fix cameras on their bikes to give millions of TV viewers a first hand experience. The light (weighing approx 3 ounces) cameras either hang from the handlebars or saddles, and have been recording surprisingly steady footage. “Everybody can see what we see,” said Dutch cyclist Koen de Kort.

AERODYNAMICS

Stage 20 will showcase the real importance of cycling aerodynamics. The more aerodynamic you are, the faster you will go for the same power. Cycles will be specialised with filled-in disc rear wheels and low-drag frames. Riders use aerobars and wear a teardrop-shaped helmet to average up to 50km an hour.