{"id":2034111,"date":"2026-07-08T08:34:23","date_gmt":"2026-07-08T05:34:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2034111"},"modified":"2026-07-08T08:34:23","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T05:34:23","slug":"the-tour-de-frances-eleven-most-marginal-gains-the-most-comically-minuscule-upgrades-on-the-worlds-fastest-bikes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2034111","title":{"rendered":"The Tour de France\u2019s eleven most marginal gains &#8211; The most comically minuscule upgrades on the world\u2019s fastest bikes"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-2560-80.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\/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-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                                    &#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 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\/mUfxC3R4SQVd7jZaodq97C-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mUfxC3R4SQVd7jZaodq97C-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                                    Fresh images emerge of Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s dazzling prototype Specialized Shiv\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 Tech &amp; Components\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>The Tour de France\u2019s eleven most marginal gains &#8211; The most comically minuscule upgrades on the world\u2019s fastest bikes<\/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 \/>\nWill Jones <\/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=\"2026-07-08T08:34:23Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n8 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">If you\u2019re not swapping your jockey wheel bolts, are you even trying to win?<\/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\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-320-80.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: Josh Croxton)<\/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\">1<\/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-d9dd2278-7a18-11f1-b3f9-0da60c0e1f09\">Since the heady days of peak Team Sky, the phrase \u2018marginal gains\u2019 has become so commonplace as to almost be a mantra for the sport as a whole. New bikes come out every year promising measurable gains in aerodynamics, weight, and stiffness, and every year pro mechanics meticulously modify them, especially for the Tour de France. We\u2019ve seen some expensive mods, like Lidl-Trek\u2019s $1,300 hub upgrades for every bike to shave a few grams, but while my colleagues roamed the pits in Barcelona they saw some truly marginal, marginal gains.<\/p>\n<p>You may find some of these laughable, but when stages are won and lost by millimetres, and the calorific savings of even tiny gains adding up massively over a three week race, I choose to marvel at the seemingly bottomless well of innovation that performance engineers seem to draw from, as well as what must be near infinite reserves of patience from the armies of team mechanics who have to implement these modifications. Without further ado, then, in no particular order\u2026<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg-cUvpK3Dff6hvJEEGrOXA1IcEPNqaTeCf\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg-cUvpK3Dff6hvJEEGrOXA1IcEPNqaTeCf slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 7<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"tape-over-every-bolt-and-void-3\">Tape over every bolt and void<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdd30-7a9d-11f1-9807-9d9ccbe11198-0\">Some bolts sit proud, some sit flush, and some are recessed. In all cases, though, there\u2019s a little void into which your hex key or Torx bit goes, and the wind can eddy within these, ever so slightly increasing the system drag on the bike. Some are important due to being at the leading edge, such as the handlebar bolts on Jonas Vingegaard\u2019s Cerv\u00e9lo S5, and others are important as they\u2019re just big ol\u2019 holes, like the hollow on the non-drive side of SRAM cranks.<\/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>If you\u2019re going to tape one bolt though, you may as well do them all, and nobody does this quite like Visma-Lease a Bike, who even go so far as to tape over the adjustment bolts on the team\u2019s seatposts. Tape, handily, doesn\u2019t weigh much at all, so you can use it with gay abandon.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a6ac5072-7a9f-11f1-8353-3b380b26c17e\">\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\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"an-aerodynamic-bottom-bracket-3\">An aerodynamic bottom bracket<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cde66-7a9d-11f1-8c10-772b272817ff\">I\u2019m sure, like me, you\u2019ve spent hours staring down at your external bottom bracket cups just wishing they weren\u2019t so damnably un-aero. UAE Team Emirates, or more specifically Tadej Poga\u010dar, doesn\u2019t have to stress about this as he has an aftermarket unit from Bikone fitted to his Colnago Y1Rs with a totally smooth non-drive side threaded cup to \u2018save watts with every pedal stroke\u2019 according to the brand, though it doesn\u2019t say quite how many watts.<\/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\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-150-80.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\">New helmets from KASK and POC, loads of aero tape hacks, and two new prototype bikes: It&#8217;s time for the 2026 Tour de France Grand D\u00e9part mega tech gallery<\/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\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-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\">Cooling hacks, prototype bikes and new TT groupset parts: Tour de France TTT tech gallery<\/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\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-150-80.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\">More unreleased bikes than ever before in tech rehearsal for the Tour de France \u2013 Mega Dauphin\u00e9 tech gallery<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Considering that in order to remove the unit you need a special proprietary tool that tightens the cup from the drive side, it\u2019s no wonder that only the team leaders get the unspecified wattage gains to go along with the 17g weight saving over the standard Bikone unit.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54b79f28-7aa0-11f1-a5d4-ab06d3e9526e\">\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\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"special-jockey-wheel-bolts-3\">Special jockey wheel bolts<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdf24-7a9d-11f1-8969-b96fbb67f3e2\">Pro cycling went through a phase where if you didn\u2019t have an aftermarket rear derailleur cage with oversized pulley wheels, you may as well not turn up. The trouble with these massive sprockets is that they tended to weigh more, and at times they create something of a sponsorship clash. Now teams are looking to get their aero bikes down to the UCI weight limit rather than simply chasing every aero gain. Now, again at the UAE paddock, we\u2019ve seen derailleur cages go on a diet, with the stock Dura-Ace retaining bolts for the jockey wheels being swapped out for aluminium ones.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg 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>Sadly, the CarbonTi website appears to be down, so for now the weight saving is unknown, but it\u2019s good to see good old-fashioned weight weenieism alive and well.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54b79fb4-7aa0-11f1-8ddd-4918c6f78697\">\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\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"strips-of-coloured-tape-3\">Strips of coloured tape<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdfd8-7a9d-11f1-ac9a-d5d9812fa7c0\">No gram savings here, or ways to trick the wind. Lidl-Trek for the opening team time trial applied strips of different coloured tape down the sides of each rider&#8217;s TT bike in an effort to reduce the cognitive load, and perhaps with a knock-on aero benefit too. If you\u2019ve only got to think \u2018I go in the line after I see yellow \u2019, you can glance across without really having to change your position at all and slot in when the colour is right. This is much easier than having to work out \u2018is that Mattias Skjelmose\u2019s lower leg spinning at 100rpm?\u2019 Smart, and it builds on the Astana hack from 2025 where the riders wore different coloured gloves and aero socks.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fdc2c-7aa1-11f1-8c86-abe218660ec9\">\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\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"diy-aero-derailleur-3\">DIY Aero derailleur<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce096-7a9d-11f1-ba25-fb72143aea22\">Is there no limit to the utility of black electrical tape? Not only can it be used to tape over every bolt and void on a bike, but it can also be used to tape over the lower portions of a Shimano derailleur cage to make a superlight aero hack, as we saw at the Ineos paddock. This must weigh a gram or two and save\u2026 well, who knows. Not a lot, but considering it costs pennies, you may as well do it, right?<\/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\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-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\">Prototype Dura-Ace, unreleased components, crazy double valves and hacked drivetrains: Mega Paris-Roubaix men&#8217;s tech gallery<\/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\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-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\">EIGHT new gravel bikes, unreleased Enve whoppers, secret tyres, and even a new groupset \u2013 Monster Traka tech gallery<\/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\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-150-80.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\">Prototype bikes and self-lubing chains: We peel back the mud at the Unbound Gravel finish line to reveal some curious tech choices<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fdcc2-7aa1-11f1-b8a7-5d6e8a9db09d\">\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\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"superlight-bottle-cages-3\">Superlight bottle cages<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce154-7a9d-11f1-8f45-27feae3e94cd\">For the last few years, the Elite Custom Race Plus was the king of the pro cycling bottle cage castle, partially because it\u2019s good and also light, and partially because Elite sponsors many, many teams. Now, though, more and more riders are turning their backs on tradition and opting instead for the new Elite Leggero Carbon, tipping the scales at a mere 13g a piece; a 27g saving per cage which is on the cusp of being a maximal gain by the standards of this list. Poga\u010dar himself even swaps his aero bottle cages on his Colnago Y1Rs for a set of these in his never-ending quest to keep his bike both aero and superlight.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fddbc-7aa1-11f1-8989-cb8a70bd87a1\">\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\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aftermarket-thru-axles-3\">Aftermarket thru-axles<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce212-7a9d-11f1-b59d-47dbb6fcf85d\">Another quite un-glamourous part that\u2019s been given the bling treatment at the UAE paddock is the humble thru-axle, which the team has swapped out for lightweight aluminium versions, again from CarbonTi, tipping the scales at a mere 31g for the rear of a Y1Rs.<\/p>\n<p>Real weight weenies know that carbon thru-axles can be found, which weigh in the region of 30g for a pair, but we\u2019re yet to see these be adopted anywhere yet, though it must be said the actual shaft could be made of cheese or spun sugar for all we\u2019re usually able to see of it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f8791172-7aa1-11f1-a2cb-7d7ce2718653\">\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\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"lightweight-disc-rotor-lockrings-3\">Lightweight disc rotor lockrings<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce2c6-7a9d-11f1-aaac-456db789d0c2\">While Lidl-Trek\u2019s fancy hubs garnered a lot of attention, our eye was also drawn to one end of them where the standard disc rotor lockrings had been replaced by grey Tactic-branded units. These are \u2018exceptionally light and strong\u2019, and weigh a claimed 12.4 grams per pair; they are also machined from the same aerospace-grade aluminium as the hubs. There\u2019s probably a handful of grams at play in swapping to these, and in all likelihood it\u2019s probably as much an aesthetic or sponsor arrangement as an actual gain.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f87911f4-7aa1-11f1-aba8-b5fc1ce3ac2c\">\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\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"old-series-garmin-3\">Old series Garmin<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce384-7a9d-11f1-9364-9d5acf7fb500\">One thing that caught my eye while poring over images of Jonas Vingegaard\u2019s Cerv\u00e9lo P5 time-trial bike was his choice of computer. Rather than the current small-but-premium Garmin Edge 550 that his team\u2019s sponsor offers, he chose to run the smaller, older Garmin Edge 540. Given that for a time trial he was likely relying on a power number and perhaps a distance figure, the need for anything larger was likely surplus to requirement.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f879126c-7aa1-11f1-9d44-fd5586c1e523\">\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\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aftermarket-derailleur-hanger-3\">Aftermarket derailleur hanger<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce442-7a9d-11f1-ae6d-254721890414\">Derailleur hangers have two jobs: connect the rear derailleur to the frame, and in the event of a crash, they should bend or snap before the derailleur or frame does. Despite this, we\u2019ve seen many iterations of upgraded hangers over the years, promising lower weight and crisper shifting, something that\u2019s very hard to quantify.<\/p>\n<p>These crop up on many pro bikes, but Poga\u010dar seems to be the main culprit, with various coloured options depending on show at various points throughout the year.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3e936e7e-7aab-11f1-83ff-5f5558c4dc12\">\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\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aerodynamic-saddle-3\">Aerodynamic saddle<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce4f6-7a9d-11f1-8f1d-1db359d18db0\">Yes, the thing that is almost entirely covered by your rear end for almost the entire time you\u2019re riding your bike can be made aerodynamic, as evidenced by Jonas Vingegaard and his \u20ac490 Prologo Choice saddle, which is modular and features side vents for \u2018unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency\u2019. I\u2019m not sure there was any precedent for aero saddles as yet, so Prologo is probably right in this regard, though actual wattage figures are hard to come by on the brand\u2019s website.<\/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-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg 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__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Will Jones<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Senior Tech Writer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Will joined the Cyclingnews team as a reviews writer in 2022, having previously written for Cyclist, BikeRadar and Advntr. He\u2019s tried his hand at most cycling disciplines, from the standard mix of road, gravel, and mountain bike, to the more unusual like bike polo and tracklocross. He\u2019s made his own bike frames, covered tech news from the biggest races on the planet, and published countless premium galleries thanks to his excellent photographic eye. Also, given he doesn\u2019t ever ride indoors he\u2019s become a real expert on foul-weather riding gear. His collection of bikes is a real smorgasbord, with everything from vintage-style steel tourers through to superlight flat bar hill climb machines.<\/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\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New helmets from KASK and POC, loads of aero tape hacks, and two new prototype bikes: It&#8217;s time for the 2026 Tour de France Grand D\u00e9part mega tech gallery<\/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\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-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\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cooling hacks, prototype bikes and new TT groupset parts: Tour de France TTT tech gallery<\/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\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-320-80.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\">More unreleased bikes than ever before in tech rehearsal for the Tour de France \u2013 Mega Dauphin\u00e9 tech gallery<\/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\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-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\">Prototype Dura-Ace, unreleased components, crazy double valves and hacked drivetrains: Mega Paris-Roubaix men&#8217;s tech gallery<\/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\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-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\">EIGHT new gravel bikes, unreleased Enve whoppers, secret tyres, and even a new groupset \u2013 Monster Traka tech gallery<\/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\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Gravel Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Prototype bikes and self-lubing chains: We peel back the mud at the Unbound Gravel finish line to reveal some curious tech choices<\/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 Tech &amp; Components<\/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\/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\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-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\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cooling hacks, prototype bikes and new TT groupset parts: Tour de France TTT tech gallery<\/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\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New helmets from KASK and POC, loads of aero tape hacks, and two new prototype bikes: It&#8217;s time for the 2026 Tour de France Grand D\u00e9part mega tech gallery<\/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\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-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\">Alpecin-Premier Tech relying on old school bike tech for Tour de France team time trial success<\/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\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-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\">The new Specialized Tarmac SL9 is making Tour de France headlines, but the outgoing SL8 model is now heavily discounted by up to 16%<\/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\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-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\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Zipp\u2019s new wheels are allegedly faster than Scopes at a third of the price<\/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\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-320-80.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&#8217;ve been able to set some goals&#8217; \u2013 Neilson Powless makes racing return after five months of rehabilitation following knee surgery<\/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\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-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\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;His absence is not a punishment&#8217; \u2013 Netcompany Ineos sports director explains why Carlos Rodr\u00edguez is missing from Tour de France line-up<\/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\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-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;He&#8217;s a fighter&#8217; \u2013 K\u00e9vin Vauquelin shows he is on the improve with efforts in Tour de France stage 4 break<\/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\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-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\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;You have to take every opportunity you get&#8217; &#8211; After four days of suffering Tim Merlier is ready for first sprint of 2026 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\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-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;Not as easy as it looks&#8217; \u2013 Mads Pedersen perfectly executes Tour de France stage win plan made months in advance by &#8216;workaholic&#8217; head DS<\/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\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-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\">Torstein Tr\u00e6en&#8217;s Tour de France yellow jersey gives Uno-X Mobility something to celebrate<\/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\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9.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\">&#8216;We&#8217;ve been able to set some goals&#8217; \u2013 Neilson Powless makes racing return after five months of rehabilitation following knee surgery<\/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;His absence is not a punishment&#8217; \u2013 Netcompany Ineos sports director explains why Carlos Rodr\u00edguez is missing from Tour de France line-up<\/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\">Will Tadej Poga\u010dar beat Mark Cavendish&#8217;s Tour de France stage wins record? Crunching the numbers<\/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\">The Tour de France\u2019s eleven most marginal gains &#8211; The most comically minuscule upgrades on the world\u2019s fastest bikes<\/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\">&#8216;He&#8217;s a fighter&#8217; \u2013 K\u00e9vin Vauquelin shows he is on the improve with efforts in Tour de France stage 4 break<\/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 Tech &amp; Components\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>The Tour de France\u2019s eleven most marginal gains &#8211; The most comically minuscule upgrades on the world\u2019s fastest bikes<\/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 \/>\nWill Jones <\/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=\"2026-07-08T08:34:23Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n8 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">If you\u2019re not swapping your jockey wheel bolts, are you even trying to win?<\/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\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-320-80.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: Josh Croxton)<\/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\">1<\/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-d9dd2278-7a18-11f1-b3f9-0da60c0e1f09\">Since the heady days of peak Team Sky, the phrase \u2018marginal gains\u2019 has become so commonplace as to almost be a mantra for the sport as a whole. New bikes come out every year promising measurable gains in aerodynamics, weight, and stiffness, and every year pro mechanics meticulously modify them, especially for the Tour de France. We\u2019ve seen some expensive mods, like Lidl-Trek\u2019s $1,300 hub upgrades for every bike to shave a few grams, but while my colleagues roamed the pits in Barcelona they saw some truly marginal, marginal gains.<\/p>\n<p>You may find some of these laughable, but when stages are won and lost by millimetres, and the calorific savings of even tiny gains adding up massively over a three week race, I choose to marvel at the seemingly bottomless well of innovation that performance engineers seem to draw from, as well as what must be near infinite reserves of patience from the armies of team mechanics who have to implement these modifications. Without further ado, then, in no particular order\u2026<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg-cUvpK3Dff6hvJEEGrOXA1IcEPNqaTeCf\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg-cUvpK3Dff6hvJEEGrOXA1IcEPNqaTeCf slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 7<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"tape-over-every-bolt-and-void-3\">Tape over every bolt and void<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdd30-7a9d-11f1-9807-9d9ccbe11198-0\">Some bolts sit proud, some sit flush, and some are recessed. In all cases, though, there\u2019s a little void into which your hex key or Torx bit goes, and the wind can eddy within these, ever so slightly increasing the system drag on the bike. Some are important due to being at the leading edge, such as the handlebar bolts on Jonas Vingegaard\u2019s Cerv\u00e9lo S5, and others are important as they\u2019re just big ol\u2019 holes, like the hollow on the non-drive side of SRAM cranks.<\/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>If you\u2019re going to tape one bolt though, you may as well do them all, and nobody does this quite like Visma-Lease a Bike, who even go so far as to tape over the adjustment bolts on the team\u2019s seatposts. Tape, handily, doesn\u2019t weigh much at all, so you can use it with gay abandon.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a6ac5072-7a9f-11f1-8353-3b380b26c17e\">\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\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"an-aerodynamic-bottom-bracket-3\">An aerodynamic bottom bracket<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cde66-7a9d-11f1-8c10-772b272817ff\">I\u2019m sure, like me, you\u2019ve spent hours staring down at your external bottom bracket cups just wishing they weren\u2019t so damnably un-aero. UAE Team Emirates, or more specifically Tadej Poga\u010dar, doesn\u2019t have to stress about this as he has an aftermarket unit from Bikone fitted to his Colnago Y1Rs with a totally smooth non-drive side threaded cup to \u2018save watts with every pedal stroke\u2019 according to the brand, though it doesn\u2019t say quite how many watts.<\/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\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-150-80.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\">New helmets from KASK and POC, loads of aero tape hacks, and two new prototype bikes: It&#8217;s time for the 2026 Tour de France Grand D\u00e9part mega tech gallery<\/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\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-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\">Cooling hacks, prototype bikes and new TT groupset parts: Tour de France TTT tech gallery<\/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\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-150-80.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\">More unreleased bikes than ever before in tech rehearsal for the Tour de France \u2013 Mega Dauphin\u00e9 tech gallery<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Considering that in order to remove the unit you need a special proprietary tool that tightens the cup from the drive side, it\u2019s no wonder that only the team leaders get the unspecified wattage gains to go along with the 17g weight saving over the standard Bikone unit.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54b79f28-7aa0-11f1-a5d4-ab06d3e9526e\">\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\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"special-jockey-wheel-bolts-3\">Special jockey wheel bolts<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdf24-7a9d-11f1-8969-b96fbb67f3e2\">Pro cycling went through a phase where if you didn\u2019t have an aftermarket rear derailleur cage with oversized pulley wheels, you may as well not turn up. The trouble with these massive sprockets is that they tended to weigh more, and at times they create something of a sponsorship clash. Now teams are looking to get their aero bikes down to the UCI weight limit rather than simply chasing every aero gain. Now, again at the UAE paddock, we\u2019ve seen derailleur cages go on a diet, with the stock Dura-Ace retaining bolts for the jockey wheels being swapped out for aluminium ones.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg 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>Sadly, the CarbonTi website appears to be down, so for now the weight saving is unknown, but it\u2019s good to see good old-fashioned weight weenieism alive and well.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54b79fb4-7aa0-11f1-8ddd-4918c6f78697\">\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\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"strips-of-coloured-tape-3\">Strips of coloured tape<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdfd8-7a9d-11f1-ac9a-d5d9812fa7c0\">No gram savings here, or ways to trick the wind. Lidl-Trek for the opening team time trial applied strips of different coloured tape down the sides of each rider&#8217;s TT bike in an effort to reduce the cognitive load, and perhaps with a knock-on aero benefit too. If you\u2019ve only got to think \u2018I go in the line after I see yellow \u2019, you can glance across without really having to change your position at all and slot in when the colour is right. This is much easier than having to work out \u2018is that Mattias Skjelmose\u2019s lower leg spinning at 100rpm?\u2019 Smart, and it builds on the Astana hack from 2025 where the riders wore different coloured gloves and aero socks.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fdc2c-7aa1-11f1-8c86-abe218660ec9\">\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\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"diy-aero-derailleur-3\">DIY Aero derailleur<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce096-7a9d-11f1-ba25-fb72143aea22\">Is there no limit to the utility of black electrical tape? Not only can it be used to tape over every bolt and void on a bike, but it can also be used to tape over the lower portions of a Shimano derailleur cage to make a superlight aero hack, as we saw at the Ineos paddock. This must weigh a gram or two and save\u2026 well, who knows. Not a lot, but considering it costs pennies, you may as well do it, right?<\/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\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-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\">Prototype Dura-Ace, unreleased components, crazy double valves and hacked drivetrains: Mega Paris-Roubaix men&#8217;s tech gallery<\/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\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-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\">EIGHT new gravel bikes, unreleased Enve whoppers, secret tyres, and even a new groupset \u2013 Monster Traka tech gallery<\/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\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-150-80.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\">Prototype bikes and self-lubing chains: We peel back the mud at the Unbound Gravel finish line to reveal some curious tech choices<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fdcc2-7aa1-11f1-b8a7-5d6e8a9db09d\">\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\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"superlight-bottle-cages-3\">Superlight bottle cages<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce154-7a9d-11f1-8f45-27feae3e94cd\">For the last few years, the Elite Custom Race Plus was the king of the pro cycling bottle cage castle, partially because it\u2019s good and also light, and partially because Elite sponsors many, many teams. Now, though, more and more riders are turning their backs on tradition and opting instead for the new Elite Leggero Carbon, tipping the scales at a mere 13g a piece; a 27g saving per cage which is on the cusp of being a maximal gain by the standards of this list. Poga\u010dar himself even swaps his aero bottle cages on his Colnago Y1Rs for a set of these in his never-ending quest to keep his bike both aero and superlight.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fddbc-7aa1-11f1-8989-cb8a70bd87a1\">\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\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aftermarket-thru-axles-3\">Aftermarket thru-axles<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce212-7a9d-11f1-b59d-47dbb6fcf85d\">Another quite un-glamourous part that\u2019s been given the bling treatment at the UAE paddock is the humble thru-axle, which the team has swapped out for lightweight aluminium versions, again from CarbonTi, tipping the scales at a mere 31g for the rear of a Y1Rs.<\/p>\n<p>Real weight weenies know that carbon thru-axles can be found, which weigh in the region of 30g for a pair, but we\u2019re yet to see these be adopted anywhere yet, though it must be said the actual shaft could be made of cheese or spun sugar for all we\u2019re usually able to see of it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f8791172-7aa1-11f1-a2cb-7d7ce2718653\">\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\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"lightweight-disc-rotor-lockrings-3\">Lightweight disc rotor lockrings<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce2c6-7a9d-11f1-aaac-456db789d0c2\">While Lidl-Trek\u2019s fancy hubs garnered a lot of attention, our eye was also drawn to one end of them where the standard disc rotor lockrings had been replaced by grey Tactic-branded units. These are \u2018exceptionally light and strong\u2019, and weigh a claimed 12.4 grams per pair; they are also machined from the same aerospace-grade aluminium as the hubs. There\u2019s probably a handful of grams at play in swapping to these, and in all likelihood it\u2019s probably as much an aesthetic or sponsor arrangement as an actual gain.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f87911f4-7aa1-11f1-aba8-b5fc1ce3ac2c\">\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\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"old-series-garmin-3\">Old series Garmin<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce384-7a9d-11f1-9364-9d5acf7fb500\">One thing that caught my eye while poring over images of Jonas Vingegaard\u2019s Cerv\u00e9lo P5 time-trial bike was his choice of computer. Rather than the current small-but-premium Garmin Edge 550 that his team\u2019s sponsor offers, he chose to run the smaller, older Garmin Edge 540. Given that for a time trial he was likely relying on a power number and perhaps a distance figure, the need for anything larger was likely surplus to requirement.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f879126c-7aa1-11f1-9d44-fd5586c1e523\">\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\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aftermarket-derailleur-hanger-3\">Aftermarket derailleur hanger<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce442-7a9d-11f1-ae6d-254721890414\">Derailleur hangers have two jobs: connect the rear derailleur to the frame, and in the event of a crash, they should bend or snap before the derailleur or frame does. Despite this, we\u2019ve seen many iterations of upgraded hangers over the years, promising lower weight and crisper shifting, something that\u2019s very hard to quantify.<\/p>\n<p>These crop up on many pro bikes, but Poga\u010dar seems to be the main culprit, with various coloured options depending on show at various points throughout the year.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3e936e7e-7aab-11f1-83ff-5f5558c4dc12\">\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\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aerodynamic-saddle-3\">Aerodynamic saddle<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce4f6-7a9d-11f1-8f1d-1db359d18db0\">Yes, the thing that is almost entirely covered by your rear end for almost the entire time you\u2019re riding your bike can be made aerodynamic, as evidenced by Jonas Vingegaard and his \u20ac490 Prologo Choice saddle, which is modular and features side vents for \u2018unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency\u2019. I\u2019m not sure there was any precedent for aero saddles as yet, so Prologo is probably right in this regard, though actual wattage figures are hard to come by on the brand\u2019s website.<\/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-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg 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__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rcdGNkZsAp22gXEbfMFpjU.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Will Jones<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Senior Tech Writer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Will joined the Cyclingnews team as a reviews writer in 2022, having previously written for Cyclist, BikeRadar and Advntr. He\u2019s tried his hand at most cycling disciplines, from the standard mix of road, gravel, and mountain bike, to the more unusual like bike polo and tracklocross. He\u2019s made his own bike frames, covered tech news from the biggest races on the planet, and published countless premium galleries thanks to his excellent photographic eye. Also, given he doesn\u2019t ever ride indoors he\u2019s become a real expert on foul-weather riding gear. His collection of bikes is a real smorgasbord, with everything from vintage-style steel tourers through to superlight flat bar hill climb machines.<\/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\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New helmets from KASK and POC, loads of aero tape hacks, and two new prototype bikes: It&#8217;s time for the 2026 Tour de France Grand D\u00e9part mega tech gallery<\/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\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-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\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cooling hacks, prototype bikes and new TT groupset parts: Tour de France TTT tech gallery<\/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\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-320-80.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\">More unreleased bikes than ever before in tech rehearsal for the Tour de France \u2013 Mega Dauphin\u00e9 tech gallery<\/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\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-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\">Prototype Dura-Ace, unreleased components, crazy double valves and hacked drivetrains: Mega Paris-Roubaix men&#8217;s tech gallery<\/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\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-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\">EIGHT new gravel bikes, unreleased Enve whoppers, secret tyres, and even a new groupset \u2013 Monster Traka tech gallery<\/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\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Gravel Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Prototype bikes and self-lubing chains: We peel back the mud at the Unbound Gravel finish line to reveal some curious tech choices<\/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 Tech &amp; Components<\/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\/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\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-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\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cooling hacks, prototype bikes and new TT groupset parts: Tour de France TTT tech gallery<\/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\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New helmets from KASK and POC, loads of aero tape hacks, and two new prototype bikes: It&#8217;s time for the 2026 Tour de France Grand D\u00e9part mega tech gallery<\/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\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZbRhLwtN2mNmeHcjqYCFeK-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\">Alpecin-Premier Tech relying on old school bike tech for Tour de France team time trial success<\/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\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-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\">The new Specialized Tarmac SL9 is making Tour de France headlines, but the outgoing SL8 model is now heavily discounted by up to 16%<\/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\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-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\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Zipp\u2019s new wheels are allegedly faster than Scopes at a third of the price<\/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\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-320-80.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&#8217;ve been able to set some goals&#8217; \u2013 Neilson Powless makes racing return after five months of rehabilitation following knee surgery<\/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\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j9e9kNCmmsSVUhJTC3Ekia-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\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;His absence is not a punishment&#8217; \u2013 Netcompany Ineos sports director explains why Carlos Rodr\u00edguez is missing from Tour de France line-up<\/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\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bYedcxLPpFzAXLcQDE8TKR-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;He&#8217;s a fighter&#8217; \u2013 K\u00e9vin Vauquelin shows he is on the improve with efforts in Tour de France stage 4 break<\/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\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-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\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;You have to take every opportunity you get&#8217; &#8211; After four days of suffering Tim Merlier is ready for first sprint of 2026 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\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YoCZrjjh9nGwVGBXkeGXwQ-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;Not as easy as it looks&#8217; \u2013 Mads Pedersen perfectly executes Tour de France stage win plan made months in advance by &#8216;workaholic&#8217; head DS<\/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\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/La6bxBcVUCKaJJPngWVm3a-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\">Torstein Tr\u00e6en&#8217;s Tour de France yellow jersey gives Uno-X Mobility something to celebrate<\/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\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c47wcaVBpanyEwjuSYTXP9.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\">&#8216;We&#8217;ve been able to set some goals&#8217; \u2013 Neilson Powless makes racing return after five months of rehabilitation following knee surgery<\/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;His absence is not a punishment&#8217; \u2013 Netcompany Ineos sports director explains why Carlos Rodr\u00edguez is missing from Tour de France line-up<\/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\">Will Tadej Poga\u010dar beat Mark Cavendish&#8217;s Tour de France stage wins record? Crunching the numbers<\/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\">The Tour de France\u2019s eleven most marginal gains &#8211; The most comically minuscule upgrades on the world\u2019s fastest bikes<\/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\">&#8216;He&#8217;s a fighter&#8217; \u2013 K\u00e9vin Vauquelin shows he is on the improve with efforts in Tour de France stage 4 break<\/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 Tech &amp; Components\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>The Tour de France\u2019s eleven most marginal gains &#8211; The most comically minuscule upgrades on the world\u2019s fastest bikes<\/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 \/>\nWill Jones <\/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=\"2026-07-08T08:34:23Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n8 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">If you\u2019re not swapping your jockey wheel bolts, are you even trying to win?<\/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\">1<\/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-d9dd2278-7a18-11f1-b3f9-0da60c0e1f09\">Since the heady days of peak Team Sky, the phrase \u2018marginal gains\u2019 has become so commonplace as to almost be a mantra for the sport as a whole. New bikes come out every year promising measurable gains in aerodynamics, weight, and stiffness, and every year pro mechanics meticulously modify them, especially for the Tour de France. We\u2019ve seen some expensive mods, like Lidl-Trek\u2019s $1,300 hub upgrades for every bike to shave a few grams, but while my colleagues roamed the pits in Barcelona they saw some truly marginal, marginal gains.<\/p>\n<p>You may find some of these laughable, but when stages are won and lost by millimetres, and the calorific savings of even tiny gains adding up massively over a three week race, I choose to marvel at the seemingly bottomless well of innovation that performance engineers seem to draw from, as well as what must be near infinite reserves of patience from the armies of team mechanics who have to implement these modifications. Without further ado, then, in no particular order\u2026<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg-cUvpK3Dff6hvJEEGrOXA1IcEPNqaTeCf\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg-cUvpK3Dff6hvJEEGrOXA1IcEPNqaTeCf slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 7<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uKMPbCaMMyeMKxEuKhaaNA.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KQrreDZRepaDkZrXz3Uo6B.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnVXgKbBWDcnxMTWid2qoA.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2GRhYePHEyawG9Hce4gDDB.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KcFeW7Mo6eaUFyBVcBTRT6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uQxae9cHooRt8ZcKNbruY6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zeywFbgML6KeJkmQoxX3D6.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"tape-over-every-bolt-and-void-3\">Tape over every bolt and void<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdd30-7a9d-11f1-9807-9d9ccbe11198-0\">Some bolts sit proud, some sit flush, and some are recessed. In all cases, though, there\u2019s a little void into which your hex key or Torx bit goes, and the wind can eddy within these, ever so slightly increasing the system drag on the bike. Some are important due to being at the leading edge, such as the handlebar bolts on Jonas Vingegaard\u2019s Cerv\u00e9lo S5, and others are important as they\u2019re just big ol\u2019 holes, like the hollow on the non-drive side of SRAM cranks.<\/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>If you\u2019re going to tape one bolt though, you may as well do them all, and nobody does this quite like Visma-Lease a Bike, who even go so far as to tape over the adjustment bolts on the team\u2019s seatposts. Tape, handily, doesn\u2019t weigh much at all, so you can use it with gay abandon.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a6ac5072-7a9f-11f1-8353-3b380b26c17e\">\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\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DfTAEaNtpiotSQR97Yrnzh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"an-aerodynamic-bottom-bracket-3\">An aerodynamic bottom bracket<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cde66-7a9d-11f1-8c10-772b272817ff\">I\u2019m sure, like me, you\u2019ve spent hours staring down at your external bottom bracket cups just wishing they weren\u2019t so damnably un-aero. UAE Team Emirates, or more specifically Tadej Poga\u010dar, doesn\u2019t have to stress about this as he has an aftermarket unit from Bikone fitted to his Colnago Y1Rs with a totally smooth non-drive side threaded cup to \u2018save watts with every pedal stroke\u2019 according to the brand, though it doesn\u2019t say quite how many watts.<\/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\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hD9k4JzNbMdhoiL2ovtfx4-150-80.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\">New helmets from KASK and POC, loads of aero tape hacks, and two new prototype bikes: It&#8217;s time for the 2026 Tour de France Grand D\u00e9part mega tech gallery<\/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\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G6zKNzHrkrtuTRCpkixn8T-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\">Cooling hacks, prototype bikes and new TT groupset parts: Tour de France TTT tech gallery<\/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\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/x9BSfo36iZeA3YEfRdNPk5-150-80.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\">More unreleased bikes than ever before in tech rehearsal for the Tour de France \u2013 Mega Dauphin\u00e9 tech gallery<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Considering that in order to remove the unit you need a special proprietary tool that tightens the cup from the drive side, it\u2019s no wonder that only the team leaders get the unspecified wattage gains to go along with the 17g weight saving over the standard Bikone unit.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54b79f28-7aa0-11f1-a5d4-ab06d3e9526e\">\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\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZeKVEfJC4f9JKEwbNoJzQb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"special-jockey-wheel-bolts-3\">Special jockey wheel bolts<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdf24-7a9d-11f1-8969-b96fbb67f3e2\">Pro cycling went through a phase where if you didn\u2019t have an aftermarket rear derailleur cage with oversized pulley wheels, you may as well not turn up. The trouble with these massive sprockets is that they tended to weigh more, and at times they create something of a sponsorship clash. Now teams are looking to get their aero bikes down to the UCI weight limit rather than simply chasing every aero gain. Now, again at the UAE paddock, we\u2019ve seen derailleur cages go on a diet, with the stock Dura-Ace retaining bolts for the jockey wheels being swapped out for aluminium ones.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qzpyFN3GQLRJXJfSvuubmg 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>Sadly, the CarbonTi website appears to be down, so for now the weight saving is unknown, but it\u2019s good to see good old-fashioned weight weenieism alive and well.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54b79fb4-7aa0-11f1-8ddd-4918c6f78697\">\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\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QgRhSm7LmmmygkAubLCca-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Future)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"strips-of-coloured-tape-3\">Strips of coloured tape<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68cdfd8-7a9d-11f1-ac9a-d5d9812fa7c0\">No gram savings here, or ways to trick the wind. Lidl-Trek for the opening team time trial applied strips of different coloured tape down the sides of each rider&#8217;s TT bike in an effort to reduce the cognitive load, and perhaps with a knock-on aero benefit too. If you\u2019ve only got to think \u2018I go in the line after I see yellow \u2019, you can glance across without really having to change your position at all and slot in when the colour is right. This is much easier than having to work out \u2018is that Mattias Skjelmose\u2019s lower leg spinning at 100rpm?\u2019 Smart, and it builds on the Astana hack from 2025 where the riders wore different coloured gloves and aero socks.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fdc2c-7aa1-11f1-8c86-abe218660ec9\">\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\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"diy-aero-derailleur-3\">DIY Aero derailleur<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce096-7a9d-11f1-ba25-fb72143aea22\">Is there no limit to the utility of black electrical tape? Not only can it be used to tape over every bolt and void on a bike, but it can also be used to tape over the lower portions of a Shimano derailleur cage to make a superlight aero hack, as we saw at the Ineos paddock. This must weigh a gram or two and save\u2026 well, who knows. Not a lot, but considering it costs pennies, you may as well do it, right?<\/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\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/caPbiJphind8pLUdiWvkxV-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\">Prototype Dura-Ace, unreleased components, crazy double valves and hacked drivetrains: Mega Paris-Roubaix men&#8217;s tech gallery<\/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\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/528Tg9SidQadp6SkUmgvEV-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\">EIGHT new gravel bikes, unreleased Enve whoppers, secret tyres, and even a new groupset \u2013 Monster Traka tech gallery<\/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\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/g2utUXQyACdKXV68JWzjD6-150-80.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\">Prototype bikes and self-lubing chains: We peel back the mud at the Unbound Gravel finish line to reveal some curious tech choices<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fdcc2-7aa1-11f1-b8a7-5d6e8a9db09d\">\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\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pmRhDwiDuvRTyFBHck8zBR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"superlight-bottle-cages-3\">Superlight bottle cages<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce154-7a9d-11f1-8f45-27feae3e94cd\">For the last few years, the Elite Custom Race Plus was the king of the pro cycling bottle cage castle, partially because it\u2019s good and also light, and partially because Elite sponsors many, many teams. Now, though, more and more riders are turning their backs on tradition and opting instead for the new Elite Leggero Carbon, tipping the scales at a mere 13g a piece; a 27g saving per cage which is on the cusp of being a maximal gain by the standards of this list. Poga\u010dar himself even swaps his aero bottle cages on his Colnago Y1Rs for a set of these in his never-ending quest to keep his bike both aero and superlight.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2f4fddbc-7aa1-11f1-8989-cb8a70bd87a1\">\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\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ppu2b6yS3RnnHUSF7FqyE8-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aftermarket-thru-axles-3\">Aftermarket thru-axles<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce212-7a9d-11f1-b59d-47dbb6fcf85d\">Another quite un-glamourous part that\u2019s been given the bling treatment at the UAE paddock is the humble thru-axle, which the team has swapped out for lightweight aluminium versions, again from CarbonTi, tipping the scales at a mere 31g for the rear of a Y1Rs.<\/p>\n<p>Real weight weenies know that carbon thru-axles can be found, which weigh in the region of 30g for a pair, but we\u2019re yet to see these be adopted anywhere yet, though it must be said the actual shaft could be made of cheese or spun sugar for all we\u2019re usually able to see of it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f8791172-7aa1-11f1-a2cb-7d7ce2718653\">\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\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aipEbiJ9F8PpvV5z3zCitN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"lightweight-disc-rotor-lockrings-3\">Lightweight disc rotor lockrings<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce2c6-7a9d-11f1-aaac-456db789d0c2\">While Lidl-Trek\u2019s fancy hubs garnered a lot of attention, our eye was also drawn to one end of them where the standard disc rotor lockrings had been replaced by grey Tactic-branded units. These are \u2018exceptionally light and strong\u2019, and weigh a claimed 12.4 grams per pair; they are also machined from the same aerospace-grade aluminium as the hubs. There\u2019s probably a handful of grams at play in swapping to these, and in all likelihood it\u2019s probably as much an aesthetic or sponsor arrangement as an actual gain.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f87911f4-7aa1-11f1-aba8-b5fc1ce3ac2c\">\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\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Y23YgRki5KhciUCrivFzGJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"old-series-garmin-3\">Old series Garmin<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce384-7a9d-11f1-9364-9d5acf7fb500\">One thing that caught my eye while poring over images of Jonas Vingegaard\u2019s Cerv\u00e9lo P5 time-trial bike was his choice of computer. Rather than the current small-but-premium Garmin Edge 550 that his team\u2019s sponsor offers, he chose to run the smaller, older Garmin Edge 540. Given that for a time trial he was likely relying on a power number and perhaps a distance figure, the need for anything larger was likely surplus to requirement.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-f879126c-7aa1-11f1-9d44-fd5586c1e523\">\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\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfgK2yx6HEVuTS8jgToPxP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aftermarket-derailleur-hanger-3\">Aftermarket derailleur hanger<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce442-7a9d-11f1-ae6d-254721890414\">Derailleur hangers have two jobs: connect the rear derailleur to the frame, and in the event of a crash, they should bend or snap before the derailleur or frame does. Despite this, we\u2019ve seen many iterations of upgraded hangers over the years, promising lower weight and crisper shifting, something that\u2019s very hard to quantify.<\/p>\n<p>These crop up on many pro bikes, but Poga\u010dar seems to be the main culprit, with various coloured options depending on show at various points throughout the year.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3e936e7e-7aab-11f1-83ff-5f5558c4dc12\">\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\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GFPAmyXxdzEeGDPUTN9axZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"aerodynamic-saddle-3\">Aerodynamic saddle<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-e68ce4f6-7a9d-11f1-8f1d-1db359d18db0\">Yes, the thing that is almost entirely covered by your rear end for almost the entire time you\u2019re riding your bike can be made aerodynamic, as evidenced by Jonas Vingegaard and his \u20ac490 Prologo Choice saddle, which is modular and features side vents for \u2018unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency\u2019. I\u2019m not sure there was any precedent for aero saddles as yet, so Prologo is probably right in this regard, though actual wattage figures are hard to come by on the brand\u2019s website.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/cycling-tech-components\/the-tour-de-frances-eleven-most-marginal-gains-the-most-comically-minuscule-upgrades-on-the-worlds-fastest-bikes\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zrspdJb3qM3YYbD8eWwxm7-2560-80.jpg&#8221;] 1 &#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 2 Fresh images emerge of Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s dazzling prototype Specialized Shiv 3 Time trial bikes head-to-head: Poga\u010dar&#8217;s Colnago TT2 vs Vingegaard&#8217;s Cerv\u00e9lo P5, who has the [&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-2034111","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\/2034111","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=2034111"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2034111\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2034111"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2034111"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2034111"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}