The Tour de France is a spectacle of innovation and precision, where every gram and every millimetre counts. In the pursuit of marginal gains, teams and riders employ a myriad of strategies, from the seemingly trivial to the truly groundbreaking. This article delves into the eleven most comically minuscule upgrades, showcasing the dedication and ingenuity that goes into every aspect of the race.
One of the most intriguing aspects is the attention to detail in the smallest components. For instance, the act of taping over every bolt and void on a bike is a meticulous process. This seemingly insignificant task can reduce system drag, showcasing the importance of every detail. Visma-Lease a Bike takes this to the next level by even taping over the adjustment bolts on the team's seatposts, demonstrating a commitment to every possible gain.
The pursuit of aerodynamics extends to the bottom bracket, where UAE Team Emirates, led by Tadej Pogačar, has fitted an aftermarket unit from Bikone. This unit, with a smooth non-drive side threaded cup, promises to save watts with every pedal stroke. However, the proprietary tool required to remove it adds an extra layer of complexity, making it accessible only to team leaders.
Derailleur cages have also undergone a diet, with teams swapping out stock Dura-Ace retaining bolts for aluminium ones. This simple change, seen at the UAE paddock, contributes to the overall weight reduction of the bike. The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Lidl-Trek's approach to reducing cognitive load is particularly fascinating. By applying strips of different coloured tape down the sides of each rider's TT bike, they aim to reduce the need for constant adjustments. This strategy, while seemingly minor, can have a significant impact on performance, especially in high-pressure situations.
The use of black electrical tape is another example of ingenuity. Taping over the lower portions of a Shimano derailleur cage creates a superlight aero hack, weighing a gram or two. While the actual gain may be minimal, the cost is negligible, making it a worthwhile investment.
Elite's Leggero Carbon bottle cages, tipping the scales at 13g a piece, offer a substantial 27g saving per cage. This simple upgrade, embraced by Pogačar, demonstrates the power of small changes. Aftermarket thru-axles, lightweight disc rotor lockrings, and even the choice of an older Garmin Edge 540 over the newer Edge 550 showcase the attention to detail that can make a significant difference.
Derailleur hangers, often overlooked, have also seen upgrades. Pogačar's preference for various coloured options throughout the year highlights the importance of even the smallest components in achieving optimal performance. The aerodynamic saddle, a €490 Prologo Choice model, further emphasizes the pursuit of every possible gain.
In conclusion, the Tour de France is a testament to the power of marginal gains. From the meticulous taping of bolts to the innovative use of coloured tape, every strategy, no matter how small, contributes to the overall success. It is a constant reminder that in the pursuit of excellence, every detail matters, and the smallest upgrades can make a significant difference.
