{"id":2031939,"date":"2026-07-07T11:03:30","date_gmt":"2026-07-07T08:03:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2031939"},"modified":"2026-07-07T11:03:30","modified_gmt":"2026-07-07T08:03:30","slug":"why-do-cyclists-shave-their-legs-speed-hygiene-or-just-aesthetics","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2031939","title":{"rendered":"Why do cyclists shave their legs \u2013 Speed, hygiene, or just aesthetics?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 1 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-4 h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">1<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    UCI bans ice socks in skinsuits at the Tour de France\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 2 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CR37rojAgVRbGjSjLkmE7G-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CR37rojAgVRbGjSjLkmE7G-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">2<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    &#8216;It absolutely is a game-changer&#8217; \u2013 Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s performance coach reveals more about his preparation, training tools and motivators ahead of the Tour de France\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 3 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vut9BgdyEgtLTgaaBsL38i-160-80.png.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vut9BgdyEgtLTgaaBsL38i-80-80.png.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">3<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Time trial bikes head-to-head: Poga\u010dar&#8217;s Colnago TT2 vs Vingegaard&#8217;s Cerv\u00e9lo P5, who has the best setup?\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nCycling Culture\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Why do cyclists shave their legs \u2013 Speed, hygiene, or just aesthetics?<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nPaul Norman <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-07-07T11:03:30Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n7 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">The myths and the science of shaved legs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Stuart Franklin\/Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-46ea9bb7-a22d-4a56-847e-fe5cca101b41\">Watch the pro teams line up for a pre-stage presentation at the Tour de France and you\u2019ll see few hairs on display from the waist down. Pros and most road cyclists shave their legs, at least during the shorts season, but why go to the bother?<\/p>\n<p>There are a couple of straightforward answers and some more involved ones.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-46ea9bb7-a22d-4a56-847e-fe5cca101b41-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">On a simple level, cyclists \u2013 or at least road cyclists \u2013 have always shaved their legs. It\u2019s a rite of passage to show that you\u2019re a \u2018serious\u2019 roadie to get rid of your leg fluff, as much as riding with clipless pedals. There&#8217;s certainly an amount of this that is &#8216;pro cycling cosplay&#8217; though; pros do it, so I will too.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It probably also looks better to see a row of cyclists at the start line with smooth, brown legs than hairy legs too, particularly alongside the skin-tight clothing that\u2019s another signal that you\u2019re serious about your riding. Smooth legs might help with heat dissipation too.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-22c6c28b-d686-4b93-8fae-c0762955b8aa\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Massaging unshaved legs has been compared to massaging a cactus <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-5e006479-4e0a-4775-9eb1-32d370558a7e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Beyond that, pro riders have a massage after every stage to relax their leg muscles, reduce soreness, speed up removal of waste products and increase the speed of recovery, ready for the next day\u2019s racing.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Taper less, ride more? Why pro cyclists are training harder than science often suggests<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">How do riders stay cool at the Tour de France? Alcohol sprays and frozen carbs are just the tip of the iceberg<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Cold arms, fast legs? Netcompany Ineos roll out unusual pre-cooling strategy at the Tour de France team time trial<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A massage is much more comfortable for a rider with smooth legs than hairy ones and there\u2019s less mess from the creams and oils used if there are no hairs for it to get stuck in. It\u2019s better for the masseurs too; it&#8217;s been said that massaging hairy legs is like massaging a cactus.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then there are the crashes. It\u2019s easier to clean a wound if there aren\u2019t hairs in the way. If your legs are bandaged after a crash, it\u2019s less uncomfortable to change dressings if they are not pulling hairs from your legs as they are removed. It should be easier to apply creams and other medications to promote healing and there should be less chance of infection.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And we all know how uncomfortable scabs can be as they start to flake off if they have hairs and grit stuck in them.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"more-aero-too-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">More aero too<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e7405219-8e89-4632-ab73-67cd018b779e\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Wind tunnel tests reveal a huge benefit from shaved legs <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Will Jones)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-4ed136cf-eaff-400b-b82b-237c59c043c1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These are all classic reasons why cyclists shave their legs, which have been given for generations. But with the increasing obsession with aerodynamics, another reason for cyclists to shave their legs has come to the fore: it\u2019s more aero.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Back in 2014, <u>Specialized<\/u> put six particularly hairy legged cyclists in its wind tunnel, measured the drag, then shaved their legs and repeated the runs. Its results suggested that there was a time saving over 40km of up to 82 seconds from shaving their legs and an average of 70 seconds. That\u2019s around ten times the time saving of just 28 seconds over 100km Specialized claims for an upgrade from the Tarmac SL8 to the latest Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">UCI bans ice socks in skinsuits at the Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;Always wear your gloves&#8217; \u2013 Paul Seixas has some cycling advice, but why has hand protection gone out of fashion?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Should cycling ban altitude training? How an obsession with peak performance is ruining racing<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That number sounds enormous and has drawn scepticism, but others have repeated the test, with similar results, although we\u2019ve yet to try it ourselves. For example, <u>this video<\/u> from 2024 found a 13 watt advantage for a triathlete when he shaved his legs and arms.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a49b98aa-9da9-4bfe-9651-f0604f557cfc\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotto Soudal&#8217;s speed gel was banned by the UCI back in 2018 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Bettini Photo)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-aee2209a-b290-4b7b-b62a-e8ae544183d6\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But shaving your legs completely may not be as aero as shaving a pattern into your leg hair. The late Mike Burrows of Lotus bike and Giant TCR fame suggested that a mohican stripe of leg hair just ahead of your legs\u2019 widest point might create a trip layer and make your legs faster still.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And back in 2018, Lotto-Soudal riders smeared \u2018speed gel\u2019 on their legs for the Crit\u00e9rium du Dauphin\u00e9 time trial. This was claimed to disrupt the airflow and create a boundary layer, lowering drag. The team came third in the time trial and speed gel was promptly banned by the UCI.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Some cyclists go further and shave their arms. When Specialized tested this in 2014, it found the gains were around a quarter of those from shaved legs, so it might be worth keeping the razor out for a little longer and finishing the job.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Tech<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Paul Norman<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he&#8217;s spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He&#8217;s a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way.\u00a0Paul has contributed to Cyclingnews&#8217; tech coverage for a few years, helping to maintain the freshness of our buying guides and deals content, as well as writing a number of our voucher code pages.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Training<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Taper less, ride more? Why pro cyclists are training harder than science often suggests<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How do riders stay cool at the Tour de France? Alcohol sprays and frozen carbs are just the tip of the iceberg<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cold arms, fast legs? Netcompany Ineos roll out unusual pre-cooling strategy at the Tour de France team time trial<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Rules<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">UCI bans ice socks in skinsuits at the Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Always wear your gloves&#8217; \u2013 Paul Seixas has some cycling advice, but why has hand protection gone out of fashion?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Should cycling ban altitude training? How an obsession with peak performance is ruining racing<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Cycling Culture<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How to watch Tour de France Stage 4: All the broadcasters and live streams for a potential breakaway day<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Here&#8217;s where you can watch the Tour de France for free<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Culture<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Quiz! Can you name every Tour de France foreign start?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Peacock is the only place to watch live Tour de France 2026 coverage in the US. Grab a 12-month subscription deal just in time for this weekend&#8217;s Grand D\u00e9part<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Save up to $372.60 on a NordVPN subscription \u2013 Lock down your Tour de France viewing from anywhere this summer<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How to watch Tour de France 2026 \u2013 Live streams, TV information, official broadcasters<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We have to question the common sense of that&#8217; \u2013 Tadej Poga\u010dar and UAE&#8217;s breakaway-killing tactics criticised in French TV debate<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;This suffering is nothing compared to what I saw&#8217; \u2013 With late father as inspiration, Arvid De Kleijn just beats time cut at Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t want to say I&#8217;ve stopped caring but I&#8217;ve learned to stop beating myself up&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Quinn Simmons takes new mindset into pursuit of career-defining Tour de France stage win<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How to watch Tour de France Stage 4: All the broadcasters and live streams for a potential breakaway day<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">After links to rival teams, Jai Hindley commits &#8216;long-term&#8217; future to Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Far from his best&#8217; &#8211; Fighting a fever, Cian Uijtdebroeks suffers through difficult Tour de France debut<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Why do cyclists shave their legs \u2013 Speed, hygiene, or just aesthetics?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;This suffering is nothing compared to what I saw&#8217; \u2013 With late father as inspiration, Arvid De Kleijn just beats time cut at Tour de France<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tour de France stage 4 LIVE &#8211; Break of 34 goes clear early on heat-blasted day through foothills of Pyrenees<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t want to say I&#8217;ve stopped caring but I&#8217;ve learned to stop beating myself up&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Quinn Simmons takes new mindset into pursuit of career-defining Tour de France stage win<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">$1,300 per bike to save a handful of grams &#8211; Lidl-Trek has some fresh Tactics for the Tour de France that have flown under the radar<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nCycling Culture\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Why do cyclists shave their legs \u2013 Speed, hygiene, or just aesthetics?<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nPaul Norman <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-07-07T11:03:30Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n7 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">The myths and the science of shaved legs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Stuart Franklin\/Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-46ea9bb7-a22d-4a56-847e-fe5cca101b41\">Watch the pro teams line up for a pre-stage presentation at the Tour de France and you\u2019ll see few hairs on display from the waist down. Pros and most road cyclists shave their legs, at least during the shorts season, but why go to the bother?<\/p>\n<p>There are a couple of straightforward answers and some more involved ones.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-46ea9bb7-a22d-4a56-847e-fe5cca101b41-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">On a simple level, cyclists \u2013 or at least road cyclists \u2013 have always shaved their legs. It\u2019s a rite of passage to show that you\u2019re a \u2018serious\u2019 roadie to get rid of your leg fluff, as much as riding with clipless pedals. There&#8217;s certainly an amount of this that is &#8216;pro cycling cosplay&#8217; though; pros do it, so I will too.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It probably also looks better to see a row of cyclists at the start line with smooth, brown legs than hairy legs too, particularly alongside the skin-tight clothing that\u2019s another signal that you\u2019re serious about your riding. Smooth legs might help with heat dissipation too.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-22c6c28b-d686-4b93-8fae-c0762955b8aa\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Massaging unshaved legs has been compared to massaging a cactus <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-5e006479-4e0a-4775-9eb1-32d370558a7e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Beyond that, pro riders have a massage after every stage to relax their leg muscles, reduce soreness, speed up removal of waste products and increase the speed of recovery, ready for the next day\u2019s racing.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Taper less, ride more? Why pro cyclists are training harder than science often suggests<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">How do riders stay cool at the Tour de France? Alcohol sprays and frozen carbs are just the tip of the iceberg<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Cold arms, fast legs? Netcompany Ineos roll out unusual pre-cooling strategy at the Tour de France team time trial<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A massage is much more comfortable for a rider with smooth legs than hairy ones and there\u2019s less mess from the creams and oils used if there are no hairs for it to get stuck in. It\u2019s better for the masseurs too; it&#8217;s been said that massaging hairy legs is like massaging a cactus.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then there are the crashes. It\u2019s easier to clean a wound if there aren\u2019t hairs in the way. If your legs are bandaged after a crash, it\u2019s less uncomfortable to change dressings if they are not pulling hairs from your legs as they are removed. It should be easier to apply creams and other medications to promote healing and there should be less chance of infection.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And we all know how uncomfortable scabs can be as they start to flake off if they have hairs and grit stuck in them.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"more-aero-too-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">More aero too<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e7405219-8e89-4632-ab73-67cd018b779e\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Wind tunnel tests reveal a huge benefit from shaved legs <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Will Jones)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-4ed136cf-eaff-400b-b82b-237c59c043c1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These are all classic reasons why cyclists shave their legs, which have been given for generations. But with the increasing obsession with aerodynamics, another reason for cyclists to shave their legs has come to the fore: it\u2019s more aero.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Back in 2014, <u>Specialized<\/u> put six particularly hairy legged cyclists in its wind tunnel, measured the drag, then shaved their legs and repeated the runs. Its results suggested that there was a time saving over 40km of up to 82 seconds from shaving their legs and an average of 70 seconds. That\u2019s around ten times the time saving of just 28 seconds over 100km Specialized claims for an upgrade from the Tarmac SL8 to the latest Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">UCI bans ice socks in skinsuits at the Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;Always wear your gloves&#8217; \u2013 Paul Seixas has some cycling advice, but why has hand protection gone out of fashion?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Should cycling ban altitude training? How an obsession with peak performance is ruining racing<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That number sounds enormous and has drawn scepticism, but others have repeated the test, with similar results, although we\u2019ve yet to try it ourselves. For example, <u>this video<\/u> from 2024 found a 13 watt advantage for a triathlete when he shaved his legs and arms.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a49b98aa-9da9-4bfe-9651-f0604f557cfc\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotto Soudal&#8217;s speed gel was banned by the UCI back in 2018 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Bettini Photo)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-aee2209a-b290-4b7b-b62a-e8ae544183d6\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But shaving your legs completely may not be as aero as shaving a pattern into your leg hair. The late Mike Burrows of Lotus bike and Giant TCR fame suggested that a mohican stripe of leg hair just ahead of your legs\u2019 widest point might create a trip layer and make your legs faster still.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And back in 2018, Lotto-Soudal riders smeared \u2018speed gel\u2019 on their legs for the Crit\u00e9rium du Dauphin\u00e9 time trial. This was claimed to disrupt the airflow and create a boundary layer, lowering drag. The team came third in the time trial and speed gel was promptly banned by the UCI.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Some cyclists go further and shave their arms. When Specialized tested this in 2014, it found the gains were around a quarter of those from shaved legs, so it might be worth keeping the razor out for a little longer and finishing the job.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Tech<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Paul Norman<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he&#8217;s spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He&#8217;s a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way.\u00a0Paul has contributed to Cyclingnews&#8217; tech coverage for a few years, helping to maintain the freshness of our buying guides and deals content, as well as writing a number of our voucher code pages.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Training<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Taper less, ride more? Why pro cyclists are training harder than science often suggests<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How do riders stay cool at the Tour de France? Alcohol sprays and frozen carbs are just the tip of the iceberg<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cold arms, fast legs? Netcompany Ineos roll out unusual pre-cooling strategy at the Tour de France team time trial<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Rules<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">UCI bans ice socks in skinsuits at the Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Always wear your gloves&#8217; \u2013 Paul Seixas has some cycling advice, but why has hand protection gone out of fashion?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Should cycling ban altitude training? How an obsession with peak performance is ruining racing<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Cycling Culture<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How to watch Tour de France Stage 4: All the broadcasters and live streams for a potential breakaway day<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hba4jdDDyDMNXz6KuzqYMZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Here&#8217;s where you can watch the Tour de France for free<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gmK6UAAnbPJ6yhkQJ9AwoK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Culture<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Quiz! Can you name every Tour de France foreign start?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FJ4vkHwArHuPdqkmyxeS4F-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Peacock is the only place to watch live Tour de France 2026 coverage in the US. Grab a 12-month subscription deal just in time for this weekend&#8217;s Grand D\u00e9part<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HEsAUCouvKjnhYbwj5p3m-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Save up to $372.60 on a NordVPN subscription \u2013 Lock down your Tour de France viewing from anywhere this summer<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DqU7XuT7vTrKWUVBPiU8un-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How to watch Tour de France 2026 \u2013 Live streams, TV information, official broadcasters<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YVSDLQ998L3NFPL5yeFtmE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We have to question the common sense of that&#8217; \u2013 Tadej Poga\u010dar and UAE&#8217;s breakaway-killing tactics criticised in French TV debate<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VzPc4jPAkrwttVfMtBi9Ma-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;This suffering is nothing compared to what I saw&#8217; \u2013 With late father as inspiration, Arvid De Kleijn just beats time cut at Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QxmdFtVuFPJWGJZdfpFsUe-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t want to say I&#8217;ve stopped caring but I&#8217;ve learned to stop beating myself up&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Quinn Simmons takes new mindset into pursuit of career-defining Tour de France stage win<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/acjem7qPYTFGZX2XT5ft3A-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Streaming<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How to watch Tour de France Stage 4: All the broadcasters and live streams for a potential breakaway day<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xgchuyjt9PMi2YB8VYT4rh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">After links to rival teams, Jai Hindley commits &#8216;long-term&#8217; future to Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jvbXavHoVftPM5Byw6fFgF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Far from his best&#8217; &#8211; Fighting a fever, Cian Uijtdebroeks suffers through difficult Tour de France debut<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Why do cyclists shave their legs \u2013 Speed, hygiene, or just aesthetics?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;This suffering is nothing compared to what I saw&#8217; \u2013 With late father as inspiration, Arvid De Kleijn just beats time cut at Tour de France<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tour de France stage 4 LIVE &#8211; Break of 34 goes clear early on heat-blasted day through foothills of Pyrenees<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t want to say I&#8217;ve stopped caring but I&#8217;ve learned to stop beating myself up&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Quinn Simmons takes new mindset into pursuit of career-defining Tour de France stage win<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">$1,300 per bike to save a handful of grams &#8211; Lidl-Trek has some fresh Tactics for the Tour de France that have flown under the radar<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nCycling Culture\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Why do cyclists shave their legs \u2013 Speed, hygiene, or just aesthetics?<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nPaul Norman <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-07-07T11:03:30Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n7 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">The myths and the science of shaved legs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-46ea9bb7-a22d-4a56-847e-fe5cca101b41\">Watch the pro teams line up for a pre-stage presentation at the Tour de France and you\u2019ll see few hairs on display from the waist down. Pros and most road cyclists shave their legs, at least during the shorts season, but why go to the bother?<\/p>\n<p>There are a couple of straightforward answers and some more involved ones.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-46ea9bb7-a22d-4a56-847e-fe5cca101b41-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">On a simple level, cyclists \u2013 or at least road cyclists \u2013 have always shaved their legs. It\u2019s a rite of passage to show that you\u2019re a \u2018serious\u2019 roadie to get rid of your leg fluff, as much as riding with clipless pedals. There&#8217;s certainly an amount of this that is &#8216;pro cycling cosplay&#8217; though; pros do it, so I will too.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It probably also looks better to see a row of cyclists at the start line with smooth, brown legs than hairy legs too, particularly alongside the skin-tight clothing that\u2019s another signal that you\u2019re serious about your riding. Smooth legs might help with heat dissipation too.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-22c6c28b-d686-4b93-8fae-c0762955b8aa\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GhJidiPhWRiswEPxg4uzLo-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Massaging unshaved legs has been compared to massaging a cactus <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-5e006479-4e0a-4775-9eb1-32d370558a7e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Beyond that, pro riders have a massage after every stage to relax their leg muscles, reduce soreness, speed up removal of waste products and increase the speed of recovery, ready for the next day\u2019s racing.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kvx5aiSbFbqXoy7hGMu9Km-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Taper less, ride more? Why pro cyclists are training harder than science often suggests<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HzJ4jk9jTLVFUyhHDozwwY-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">How do riders stay cool at the Tour de France? Alcohol sprays and frozen carbs are just the tip of the iceberg<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PptZiERPUVsLY8pxEZPEgL-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Cold arms, fast legs? Netcompany Ineos roll out unusual pre-cooling strategy at the Tour de France team time trial<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A massage is much more comfortable for a rider with smooth legs than hairy ones and there\u2019s less mess from the creams and oils used if there are no hairs for it to get stuck in. It\u2019s better for the masseurs too; it&#8217;s been said that massaging hairy legs is like massaging a cactus.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then there are the crashes. It\u2019s easier to clean a wound if there aren\u2019t hairs in the way. If your legs are bandaged after a crash, it\u2019s less uncomfortable to change dressings if they are not pulling hairs from your legs as they are removed. It should be easier to apply creams and other medications to promote healing and there should be less chance of infection.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-TBFMTytw94v5TmJe2UZcfT slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And we all know how uncomfortable scabs can be as they start to flake off if they have hairs and grit stuck in them.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"more-aero-too-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">More aero too<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e7405219-8e89-4632-ab73-67cd018b779e\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VAq8sdVuNDzTu2npkAyn9d-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Wind tunnel tests reveal a huge benefit from shaved legs <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Will Jones)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-4ed136cf-eaff-400b-b82b-237c59c043c1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These are all classic reasons why cyclists shave their legs, which have been given for generations. But with the increasing obsession with aerodynamics, another reason for cyclists to shave their legs has come to the fore: it\u2019s more aero.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Back in 2014, <u>Specialized<\/u> put six particularly hairy legged cyclists in its wind tunnel, measured the drag, then shaved their legs and repeated the runs. Its results suggested that there was a time saving over 40km of up to 82 seconds from shaving their legs and an average of 70 seconds. That\u2019s around ten times the time saving of just 28 seconds over 100km Specialized claims for an upgrade from the Tarmac SL8 to the latest Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FGUqJongNr8PCisdFNXRvN-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">UCI bans ice socks in skinsuits at the Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;Always wear your gloves&#8217; \u2013 Paul Seixas has some cycling advice, but why has hand protection gone out of fashion?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yprDK5GCtNmciBsAoWqjPU-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Should cycling ban altitude training? How an obsession with peak performance is ruining racing<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That number sounds enormous and has drawn scepticism, but others have repeated the test, with similar results, although we\u2019ve yet to try it ourselves. For example, <u>this video<\/u> from 2024 found a 13 watt advantage for a triathlete when he shaved his legs and arms.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a49b98aa-9da9-4bfe-9651-f0604f557cfc\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KA8sG2AwCrCGwRSL8BA8zi-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotto Soudal&#8217;s speed gel was banned by the UCI back in 2018 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Bettini Photo)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-aee2209a-b290-4b7b-b62a-e8ae544183d6\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But shaving your legs completely may not be as aero as shaving a pattern into your leg hair. The late Mike Burrows of Lotus bike and Giant TCR fame suggested that a mohican stripe of leg hair just ahead of your legs\u2019 widest point might create a trip layer and make your legs faster still.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And back in 2018, Lotto-Soudal riders smeared \u2018speed gel\u2019 on their legs for the Crit\u00e9rium du Dauphin\u00e9 time trial. This was claimed to disrupt the airflow and create a boundary layer, lowering drag. The team came third in the time trial and speed gel was promptly banned by the UCI.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Some cyclists go further and shave their arms. When Specialized tested this in 2014, it found the gains were around a quarter of those from shaved legs, so it might be worth keeping the razor out for a little longer and finishing the job.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/cycling-culture\/why-do-cyclists-shave-their-legs\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9Hx3UNA8WLF9SNYkkoAxaC-1024-80.jpg&#8221;] 1 UCI bans ice socks in skinsuits at the Tour de France 2 &#8216;It absolutely is a game-changer&#8217; \u2013 Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s performance coach reveals more about his preparation, training tools and motivators ahead of the Tour de France 3 Time trial bikes head-to-head: Poga\u010dar&#8217;s Colnago TT2 vs Vingegaard&#8217;s Cerv\u00e9lo P5, who has [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-2031939","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2031939","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2031939"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2031939\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2031939"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2031939"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2031939"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}