Cycling News & Blog Articles

Kristin Armstrong is an American former professional road cyclist and three-time Olympic gold medalist. Here are some key highlights about Kristin Armstrong:

1. Early Life and Cycling Beginnings:

   • Kristin Armstrong was born on August 11, 1973, in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. She grew up in Idaho and developed an interest in cycling at a young age. She initially competed in triathlons before focusing solely on cycling.

2. Olympic Success:

   • Armstrong achieved remarkable success in Olympic cycling. She won three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the time trial discipline. Her gold medal victories came in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the 2012 London Olympics, and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Her achievements made her one of the most successful American female cyclists in Olympic history.

3. World Championships:

   • Armstrong also achieved success at the UCI Road World Championships. She won the gold medal in the time trial discipline in 2009 and 2016. Additionally, she earned silver medals in the time trial in 2008 and 2011, and a bronze medal in the road race in 2006.

4. Retirement and Comeback:

Sir Chris Hoy, born on March 23, 1976, in Edinburgh, Scotland, is one of the most successful and iconic track cyclists in Olympic history. Here is an overview of Sir Chris Hoy's life and achievements:

Early Life and Introduction to Cycling:

1. Chris Hoy initially pursued a career in rugby, but he developed a passion for cycling at the age of 14 after joining his local track cycling club, the Dunedin CC.

2. He quickly excelled in the sport and started focusing on track cycling, which became his primary discipline.

Olympic Success and Achievements:

BMX, or bicycle motocross, is known for its impressive tricks and stunts. Here are some classic BMX tricks:

1. Bunny Hop: This is a fundamental trick where the rider jumps both wheels off the ground simultaneously without using a ramp.

2. Manual: A manual involves balancing on the rear wheel of the bike while pedaling without touching the front wheel to the ground.

3. Wheelie: Similar to a manual, a wheelie involves lifting the front wheel off the ground and riding on the rear wheel only.

4. Barspin: In a barspin, the rider spins the handlebars of the bike 360 degrees while in the air.

Cycling gear plays a crucial role in providing comfort, safety, and performance enhancement for cyclists. Here are some essential cycling gear items that every cyclist should consider:

1. Bicycle: The most important piece of cycling gear is, of course, the bicycle itself. Choose a bike that suits your riding style and preferences, whether it's a road bike, mountain bike, hybrid bike, or any other specialized type.

2. Helmet: A properly fitting helmet is essential for protecting your head in case of a fall or accident. Look for a helmet that meets safety standards and provides a comfortable fit.

3. Cycling Clothing: Opt for moisture-wicking and breathable cycling jerseys, shorts, or bib shorts that are specifically designed for cycling. These garments are usually made from technical fabrics that help keep you cool and dry during your rides.

4. Cycling Shoes: Cycling-specific shoes are designed with stiff soles to optimize power transfer and efficiency. Choose shoes that are compatible with your pedal system (such as clipless or flat pedals) and provide a secure and comfortable fit.

Cycling up Mount Evans in Colorado, USA is a bucket-list challenge for many cyclists. Here's some information about cycling Mount Evans:

1. Location: Mount Evans is located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, approximately 60 miles (96 kilometers) west of Denver. It is part of the Mount Evans Recreation Area and sits within the Arapaho National Forest.

2. Elevation: Mount Evans is one of Colorado's "fourteeners," which means it reaches an elevation of over 14,000 feet (4,267 meters). The summit of Mount Evans stands at 14,271 feet (4,350 meters) above sea level, making it the highest paved road in North America.

3. Scenic Beauty: Cycling up Mount Evans offers stunning alpine scenery and breathtaking panoramic views. The route takes you through thick pine forests, alpine meadows, and eventually above the treeline into a rocky and exposed landscape.

4. Mount Evans Byway: The road leading to the summit of Mount Evans is known as the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. The road is well-maintained, and the first 28 miles (45 kilometers) are paved. However, the final 5 miles (8 kilometers) leading to the summit are on a well-maintained gravel road.

Olympic cycling is a highly anticipated and prestigious event that takes place as part of the Olympic Games. It showcases the talents and skills of cyclists from around the world competing in various cycling disciplines. Here is some information about Olympic cycling:

1. Cycling Disciplines: Olympic cycling consists of several disciplines, each with its own unique characteristics and requirements. The main disciplines featured in Olympic cycling are:

   • Road Cycling: Road races involve cyclists competing on paved roads in various formats, including individual and team events.

   • Track Cycling: Track events take place on indoor velodromes and include sprint races, endurance races, and team events.

   • Mountain Biking: Mountain biking events are held on off-road trails with challenging terrains, testing the riders' technical skills and endurance.

Greg LeMond is a retired American professional cyclist who is considered one of the greatest cyclists of all time. He is a three-time winner of the Tour de France, having won the prestigious race in 1986, 1989, and 1990.

LeMond's success as a professional cyclist helped to popularize the sport in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s. He was known for his fierce competitive spirit and his innovative approach to training and equipment.

In 1986, LeMond became the first American to win the Tour de France, a feat that he repeated in 1989 and 1990. He also won several other major races during his career, including the World Road Race Championship in 1983 and 1989.

LeMond was an early adopter of many of the technologies that are now standard in professional cycling, including aerodynamic bike frames and clipless pedals. He also helped to popularize the use of heart rate monitors and power meters in training.

In addition to his success on the bike, LeMond has been an outspoken advocate for clean sport and has been a vocal critic of doping in professional cycling. He continues to be involved in the sport as an advisor and commentator.

The 1989 Tour de France was the 76th edition of the prestigious cycling race. The race consisted of 21 stages over a total distance of 3,285 kilometers (2,041 miles). The route took the riders through the mountains of the Pyrenees and the Alps, as well as the flatlands of northern and central France.

One of the defining features of the 1989 Tour de France was the battle between two riders for the overall lead. Greg LeMond, a two-time winner of the race from the United States, and Laurent Fignon, a former winner from France, were neck-and-neck throughout the race. Fignon took the yellow jersey, which signifies the race leader, early in the Tour, and held onto it for much of the race. However, LeMond was never far behind, and managed to stay in contention despite facing a number of challenges, including a crash on one of the mountain stages.

Going into the final stage, a 24.5-kilometer (15.2-mile) time trial around the streets of Paris, Fignon held a seemingly insurmountable lead of 50 seconds over LeMond. However, LeMond had a secret weapon: a pair of aerodynamic handlebars that he had developed with the help of aero engineer Scott McAfee. The handlebars, which were designed to be more aerodynamic than traditional drop bars, allowed LeMond to adopt a more efficient position on the bike and gain precious seconds on Fignon.

In the end, LeMond's advantage proved crucial. He completed the time trial in a time of 26 minutes and 57 seconds, the fastest time of the day, while Fignon finished in a time of 27 minutes and 17 seconds. The eight-second margin of victory was the closest in Tour de France history up to that point, and remains one of the closest finishes ever.

LeMond's victory was celebrated as a triumph for American cycling, and marked a major milestone in the sport's history. It also served as a testament to the importance of innovation and technology in cycling, and demonstrated how even small gains in efficiency and aerodynamics can have a major impact on performance. Today, the 1989 Tour de France is remembered as one of the most thrilling and exciting moments in the history of professional cycling.

Canada is home to some beautiful cycling routes, with stunning scenery and challenging terrain. Here are a few of the most famous cycling routes in Canada:

1. The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia: This 298-km route on Cape Breton Island is known for its stunning coastal views and challenging climbs through the Cape Breton Highlands.

2. The Icefields Parkway, Alberta: This 232-km route through the Canadian Rockies offers breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks.

3. The Confederation Trail, Prince Edward Island: This 449-km trail stretches from one end of the island to the other, offering a peaceful, car-free ride through picturesque countryside and charming small towns.

4. The Okanagan Rail Trail, British Columbia: This 49-km trail follows an abandoned railway line through the Okanagan Valley, offering scenic views of lakes, vineyards, and orchards.

There have been many great sprinter cyclists throughout history, and opinions on who is the best may vary. However, here are a few of the most widely recognized top sprinter cyclists:

1. Mark Cavendish: Known as the "Manx Missile," Cavendish has won 30 Tour de France stages, the most of any sprinter cyclist in history. He has also won multiple world championships and is known for his explosive speed in the final moments of a race.

2. Eddy Merckx: Widely considered one of the greatest cyclists of all time, Merckx was a dominant sprinter during his era. He won the Tour de France five times and set numerous world records in the sprint events.

3. Mario Cipollini: Nicknamed the "Lion King," Cipollini won a record 42 stages in the Giro d'Italia and was known for his flamboyant style both on and off the bike. He was a fierce sprinter with a powerful finishing kick.

4. Peter Sagan: While not a traditional sprinter, Sagan is a versatile cyclist who has won numerous races, including multiple Tour de France stages. He is known for his ability to sprint uphill and for his aggressive racing style.

Choosing the best road cycling bike can be a subjective decision and can depend on individual preferences and needs. Here are some factors to consider when looking for the best road cycling bike:

1. Frame material: Road bikes are typically made from aluminum, carbon fiber, steel, or titanium. Carbon fiber frames are popular for their light weight and stiffness, while aluminum frames are a more affordable option. Steel and titanium frames provide a comfortable ride and durability.

2. Groupset: The groupset refers to the collection of gears, brakes, and other components that make up the bike's drivetrain. Popular groupsets include Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo. Higher-end groupsets offer smoother shifting and better performance.

3. Wheels: The wheels on a road bike can have a significant impact on the ride quality and performance. Look for lightweight, aerodynamic wheels that provide good traction and control.

4. Fit: It's essential to choose a bike that fits you well and is comfortable to ride. Consider the bike's geometry, saddle, and handlebars when determining the best fit for your body.

There are many brands of road cycles available, each with its own strengths and specializations. Some popular brands include:

1. Specialized
2. Trek
3. Giant
4. Cannondale
5. Pinarello
6. Colnago
7. Cervelo
8. BMC
9. Scott
10. Bianchi
11. Focus
12. Orbea
13. Felt
14. Merida
15. Wilier Triestina

These brands offer a range of road bikes, from entry-level models for beginners to high-end racing machines for professional cyclists. When choosing a road bike, it's important to consider factors such as frame material, groupset components, wheelset, and fit to ensure that you find a bike that suits your needs and riding style.

There are many charity cycling events around the world, and the best one for you may depend on your location, interests, and preferred distance or terrain. However, here are some of the most popular and highly regarded charity cycling events:

1. RideLondon-Surrey 100: This annual event takes place in London, UK, and offers a 100-mile route that takes riders through the city's iconic landmarks and picturesque countryside. Participants raise funds for a variety of charities.

2. Bike MS: This event takes place in various locations across the United States and is organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Riders can choose from different distances and routes, ranging from one-day rides to multi-day adventures, to raise funds for research and support for people with multiple sclerosis.

3. Ride to Conquer Cancer: This event takes place in several locations across Canada, and riders can choose from two-day routes covering up to 200 kilometers. Participants raise funds for cancer research and care at local hospitals.

4. Tour de Cure: This annual event takes place in various locations across Australia and offers a range of routes and distances to suit different skill levels. Funds raised go towards diabetes research, prevention, and support services.

There have been many famous cyclists throughout history, but here are some of the most notable and accomplished:

1. Eddy Merckx - Widely considered the greatest cyclist of all time, Merckx won the Tour de France five times and set numerous world records during his career.

2. Lance Armstrong - Despite being stripped of his seven Tour de France titles for doping, Armstrong remains one of the most famous and accomplished cyclists in history. He won the Tour de France a record seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005.

3. Miguel Indurain - This Spanish cyclist won the Tour de France five times in a row from 1991 to 1995, as well as two Olympic gold medals.

4. Fausto Coppi - One of the greatest Italian cyclists of all time, Coppi won the Tour de France twice and the Giro d'Italia five times.

1. Alpe d’Huez, France - A legendary climb in the French Alps, famous for its 21 hairpin turns and steep gradients of up to 14%.
2. Stelvio Pass, Italy - Located in the Italian Alps, the Stelvio Pass is the second-highest paved mountain pass in the Alps and features 48 hairpin turns and stunning panoramic views.
3. Mont Ventoux, France - A challenging climb in Provence, known for its steep and exposed gradients and strong winds at the summit.
4. Col du Tourmalet, France - A classic climb in the French Pyrenees, often featured in the Tour de France, with a long and challenging ascent to its summit at 2,115 meters.
5. Mortirolo Pass, Italy - A difficult climb in the Italian Alps, with steep gradients of up to 18% and a reputation as one of the toughest climbs in Europe.
6. Passo dello Stelvio, Italy - A challenging climb in the Italian Alps, with 48 hairpin turns and an ascent to the summit at 2,758 meters.
7. Grossglockner, Austria - A scenic climb in the Austrian Alps, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a challenging ascent to its summit at 2,504 meters.
8. Col de la Madeleine, France - A popular climb in the French Alps, with a long and challenging ascent to its summit at 1,993 meters.

The Tour de France is an annual men's multiple stage bicycle race primarily held in France, but also occasionally venturing into neighboring countries. It is one of the most prestigious and well-known cycling races in the world, and it typically takes place over three weeks in July.

The race was first held in 1903 and has since become a beloved tradition in France and among cycling enthusiasts worldwide. The route of the Tour de France changes every year, but it always covers a distance of around 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles) and consists of 21 stages, including individual time trials, mountain stages, and flat stages.

The winner of the Tour de France is determined by the rider with the lowest cumulative time over the entire race. The overall leader wears a distinctive yellow jersey, or maillot jaune, while other jerseys are awarded to the best sprinter, the best climber, and the best young rider.

The race attracts top cyclists from around the world and is known for its grueling mountain stages, including the iconic climbs of Alpe d'Huez, Mont Ventoux, and the Col du Tourmalet. Along with the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a España, the Tour de France makes up cycling's Grand Tours.

The Tour de France is watched by millions of viewers around the world and is one of the most prestigious and challenging sporting events in existence.