Cycling Pulse

The NYC Streets Plan represents a transformative approach to urban mobility, aiming to revolutionize the transportation infrastructure of one of the world's busiest cities. Launched in response to increasing concerns over safety, environmental sustainability, and the need for efficient transit, this plan is underpinned by a commitment to install at least 50 miles of protected bike lanes annually from 2023 to 2026, culminating in a total of 250 miles by the end of 2026. This initiative, backed by a substantial $904 million investment, reflects a significant pivot toward enhancing the cycling landscape within New York City. Protected bike lanes are pivotal in creating a safer environment for cyclists, reducing conflicts between vehicles...

The coaching landscape has experienced a remarkable transformation in recent years, particularly with the rise of digital platforms, the adoption of artificial intelligence, and the establishment of specialized niches. These shifts not only reflect broader societal changes but also pose intriguing possibilities for the future of coaching, whether for athletes, executives, or those seeking personal development. Digital coaching has emerged as one of the most significant trends, allowing clients and coaches to connect with unprecedented flexibility. A transition from face-to-face interactions to online platforms has expanded access for many, reducing barriers related to geography and scheduling. Research indicates that digital coaching...

The cycling world is buzzing with excitement following the recent announcement that Joe Pidcock, younger brother of Olympic champion Tom Pidcock, will join the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team for the 2025 season. This move not only strengthens the team’s roster but also brings a unique sibling dynamic to the competitive landscape of professional cycling. Joe Pidcock, at just 22 years old, has been carving out his own path in the sport. His previous experience with Trinity Racing in 2024 showcased his potential, especially with a notable victory at the Ronde de l'Isard, where he claimed a stage win. This past season has laid a solid foundation for Joe, but joining Q36.5 marks a significant leap in his career. This opportunity allows him to ride...

Louisiana has earned a disheartening reputation as one of the most hazardous states for cyclists in the United States, a status that recent data continues to reinforce. With a staggering fatality rate and numerous infrastructure challenges, the state’s cycling climate raises significant concerns among cycling advocates and enthusiasts alike. In 2022, Louisiana recorded 45 bicyclist deaths, which represents 4.97% of the total fatalities in road crashes that year. This alarming statistic positions Louisiana as the second most dangerous state for cyclists in 2024. The majority of these fatalities occurred in densely populated urban areas, which account for 82% of cyclist deaths, underscoring the risks cyclists face when navigating through...

James Jones has etched his name into the annals of BMX history as a professional freestyle athlete hailing from Wales. His journey into the sport began serendipitously at the age of 14 when he stumbled upon a skate park near his football training grounds in Swansea. This chance encounter sparked a passion that would see him become a trailblazer in BMX, likely inspiring many young riders who follow in his footsteps. Since the inception of his BMX career, Jones has achieved remarkable milestones. He became a founding member of the Great Britain Cycling Team's BMX freestyle park program in 2018, a pivotal move that would help shape his professional path. His prowess quickly garnered attention on the international stage, marked by a gold...

Alejandro Valverde, a name synonymous with cycling excellence in Spain, is currently positioned as a frontrunner for the Technical Director role of the Spanish National Cycling Team. His illustrious career, characterized by an impressive tally of 133 race victories and numerous podium finishes, has made him a prominent figure in the cycling world. Valverde's achievements span two decades, culminating in a world championship win in 2018 alongside four Liège-Bastogne-Liège titles and five victories at Flèche Wallonne, not to mention his twelve stage wins at the Vuelta a España. His retirement in 2022 marked the end of his professional road racing career, but it seems another chapter is on the horizon. Despite stepping away from the...

Puck Pieterse, the talented 22-year-old Dutch cyclist, is gearing up for her highly anticipated return to the cyclocross circuit at the UCI Cyclocross World Cup in Namur on December 15, 2024. This marks the start of her 2024-2025 cyclocross season, which is packed with 11 races leading up to the World Championships in Liévin, France, scheduled for February 1, 2025. With her multifaceted background in cycling, Pieterse aims to make a significant impact in the sport this season. Pieterse's two-month break from competition has been longer than the typical off-season for many cyclists. This hiatus was largely due to her efforts to clinch the UCI Gravel World Championship title in October, coupled with a demanding schedule that included the...

As the cycling world eagerly anticipates the 2024 UCI Road World Championships in Zurich, all eyes are on reigning Men Elite UCI World Champion Mathieu van der Poel. Scheduled for September 29, 2024, the elite men's road race promises to be one of the most challenging events in recent history, with a grueling course that features over 4000 meters of elevation gain across a 274-kilometer route. This includes seven closing laps of a 27-kilometer circuit that will test the limits of even the strongest riders, incorporating a 1.9-kilometer climb with a 6.2% average gradient and a steeper 500-meter ascent. Van der Poel's preparations for this daunting challenge have been intense and focused. Understanding the unique demands of the Zurich...

Uno-X Mobility, a notable professional cycling team, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking zipless jersey, touted as the fastest design produced by its sponsor. This innovative garment seeks to enhance aerodynamics by eliminating the zipper, a feature traditionally seen on cycling jerseys. Despite its promising design, the team has opted not to wear this jersey during competitive racing, citing performance and practical considerations. The introduction of the zipless jersey represents a significant development in cycling apparel. Designed by Fusion, a Danish brand that has recently become the team’s sponsor, the jersey comes in various styles, including those with aero sleeves featuring trip-strip lines and others with breathable mesh...

XDS Astana has made a significant roster change for the upcoming 2025 season, with the announcement of young Chinese rider Haoyu Su joining the WorldTour squad. This strategic signing comes as the team has filled its full quota of thirty riders, leading to the demotion of sprinter Gleb Syritsa to the development squad. This move reflects the team's ambition to adapt to the evolving landscape of professional cycling while also tapping into the burgeoning cycling market in China. Haoyu Su, a promising talent from China, has been making waves in the cycling world over the last couple of years while racing for China Glory-Mentech. His performances, which include notable efforts in breakaways and time trials, have drawn attention to his...

Tom Pidcock, the talented British cyclist known for his versatility and explosive riding style, has recently shared his optimism regarding the changes taking place at Ineos Grenadiers. This comes after a challenging and tumultuous 2024 season, which was fraught with internal team issues and speculation about his future. The timeline of events leading to this reconciliation indicates a potential turnaround for both Pidcock and the team as they look ahead to 2025. In early November 2024, Pidcock was welcomed back into Ineos Grenadiers during a week-long gathering in Manchester, where the atmosphere was reportedly positive. This event was significant as it allowed new signings and team staff to meet for the first time, fostering a sense...

As the professional cycling world gears up for the 2025 season, recent contract renewals among World Tour riders highlight the ongoing shifts and dynamics within the sport. The renewal of notable names like Nairo Quintana has stirred excitement and speculation, while many riders continue to navigate an uncertain future. Nairo Quintana's rejoining of Movistar on a one-year deal marks a significant chapter in his career, especially following a season-long hiatus due to health issues. The Colombian climber, who once dazzled fans with grand tour victories, faced difficulties early in the 2024 season, notably struggling to fulfill his general classification ambitions at the Giro d'Italia. However, he rediscovered competitive form later in...

On December 12, 2024, a disturbing incident in Saratoga Springs, Utah, brought the issue of road rage to the forefront, particularly how it affects cyclists. A cyclist found himself in a life-threatening situation when he was struck by an SUV driven by Daven Scott Smith, 57. This event transpired on the busy intersection of Pony Express Parkway and Redwood Road during the night, illustrating yet again the precarious balance between motorists and cyclists on shared roadways. The cyclist sustained significant injuries, including damage to his neck, back, and legs, which not only highlight the physical toll such encounters can take but also the emotional and psychological aftermath that follows. Witnesses to the incident reported that...