Cycling Pulse

Pascal Hervé, a name synonymous with the turbulent era of professional cycling in the 1990s, left an indelible mark on the sport before his untimely passing on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, at the age of 60, due to aggressive stomach cancer. His life journey, characterized by both significant achievements and notable controversies, continues to be a subject of interest and reflection within the cycling community. Born in Tours, France, on July 13, 1964, Hervé’s entry into professional cycling came later than most. At 29, he joined the Festina team, which would become the backdrop for many pivotal moments in his career. During his time with Festina, Hervé participated in six Tour de France events, three Giro d'Italia, and six Vuelta...

Israel-Premier Tech (IPT) showcased an impressive performance at the 2024 Tour de France, marking a significant milestone in the team's journey in professional cycling. This year’s race was particularly noteworthy for its competitive spirit and the tenacity displayed by the riders, culminating in a series of historic achievements that have set the stage for future success. One of the standout moments of the Tour was Canadian rider Derek Gee's remarkable ninth-place finish in the general classification. This achievement is particularly significant as it represents IPT's first-ever top-ten finish in the Tour, highlighting Gee’s resilience and skill, particularly in the demanding mountain stages. His performance in the final time trial...

Matteo Jorgenson has emerged as one of the standout cyclists of the 2024 season, and much of his success can be traced back to significant enhancements in his training methods. These improvements are largely attributed to the collaboration with Visma's biomechanist and his coach, Tim Hermskerk. Jorgenson's journey showcases how modern training approaches are transforming the landscape of professional cycling. A key aspect of Jorgenson's training has been the biomechanical adjustments he has embraced. Working closely with a biomechanist, he has refined his pedaling technique, which has proven to be a game-changer. By focusing on optimizing his biomechanics, Jorgenson has been able to sustain high energy levels over extended periods, a...

The Santos Tour Down Under, a hallmark event in the cycling calendar, has officially announced its impressive lineup for the 2025 edition, set to take place from January 17 to 26. This year marks a significant milestone, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary, showcasing the evolution of cycling in Australia and its growing international presence. With a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the event promises to deliver thrilling racing and a vibrant atmosphere. Among the notable Australian riders confirmed for the event is Ruby Roseman-Gannon, representing Liv-AlUla-Jayco. Roseman-Gannon has firmly established herself in the Australian cycling scene, having competed in three previous editions of the Santos Tour Down Under and...

Tadej Pogačar's training methodology is a subject of keen interest among cycling enthusiasts and professionals alike, particularly his strategic utilization of Zone 2 training. Known for his impressive endurance and versatility, Pogačar’s training techniques are tailored to maximize his performance during long rides, particularly in flat regions such as Slovenia and Spain, where he actually thrives. Zone 2 training is characterized by low to moderate intensity, allowing cyclists to build aerobic endurance while improving recovery times between high-intensity efforts. Pogačar emphasizes this training as a cornerstone of his regimen, allowing him to sustain higher power outputs over extended periods without succumbing to fatigue. His...

The presence of Lance Armstrong in the cycling commentary landscape continues to spark intense debate and division within the cycling community. His past, marred by one of the most notorious doping scandals in sports history, complicates his role as a commentator. Recent discussions have resurfaced, particularly following his appearances during major cycling events like the Tour de France, highlighting the tensions between his contributions to the sport and the ethical implications of his past actions. Critics have been vocal about Armstrong's credibility as a commentator. An Eurosport commentator recently challenged his moral authority, suggesting that Armstrong's previous actions "stole cycling" and disillusioned many fans. This...

Sarah Gigante, a rising star in the world of professional cycling, has recently faced a significant health challenge with the diagnosis and subsequent surgery for iliac artery endofibrosis. This condition, which leads to narrowed arteries and impairs blood flow, is particularly concerning for athletes, especially cyclists who rely heavily on their lower body for performance. Gigante's journey through this ordeal is not only a personal story of resilience but also sheds light on a condition that has affected many elite cyclists. At just 24 years old, Gigante had already made her mark in cycling, notably winning the Australian road championship. However, her success came to an abrupt halt when she began experiencing troubling symptoms...

KOO Eyewear has taken a bold step forward in the world of cycling accessories with the launch of its innovative HYPE road biking sunglasses. Officially launched on November 14, 2024, these sunglasses are designed not only to enhance performance but also to cater to the stylistic preferences of modern cyclists. With a diverse range of nine colorways, KOO aims to provide options that suit the aesthetic tastes of both professional and amateur riders alike. One of the standout features of the HYPE sunglasses is the maximum ventilation they offer. Equipped with strategically placed ventilation ports on either side of the frames, as well as a unique center ventilation feature, these sunglasses ensure optimal airflow to minimize fogging. This...

Remco Evenepoel has once again proven his mettle as one of the finest time trialists in the world by successfully defending his title at the 2024 UCI Road World Championships, held on September 22 in Zurich, Switzerland. This event, a staple in the cycling calendar, showcased not just the skill of its competitors but also the resilience required to excel under pressure. Evenepoel’s victory adds a significant chapter to his burgeoning career, which is already decorated with Olympic gold medals and a myriad of national and international honors. The time trial course in Zurich posed considerable challenges, featuring three intermediate checkpoints that tested the riders' speed and endurance. The first checkpoint, situated at 12.5...

Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe has made a significant impact in the professional cycling landscape, particularly following their strategic partnership with cycling superstar Primož Roglič. As the team gears up for the 2025 season, they have unveiled an exciting new jersey design that signals a fresh chapter for the squad. This new look not only enhances the team's visual identity but also embodies their ambition to improve their standing in the WorldTour rankings. The new jersey design features a striking addition of white to Roglič's kit, creating a modern and eye-catching appearance. This creative update is more than just aesthetic; it reflects a conscious effort to elevate the team's brand presence in a highly competitive field. With the...

Gianni Savio, a legendary figure in Italian cycling, passed away on December 30, 2024, at the age of 76 after a prolonged illness. His contributions to the sport are profound, spanning a remarkable career that began in the early 1980s and lasted over four decades. His journey from a sponsor executive to a revered team manager encapsulates the spirit of cycling's evolution, both in Italy and on the international stage. Savio's entry into professional cycling began in 1982 when he joined Galli, a company based in Turin known for producing high-quality bike components. His transition to a managerial role came in 1985 when he took the helm at Santini-Selle Italia. It didn't take long for his influence to be felt, with Daniele Caroli's...

Remco Evenepoel's performance at the 2024 Il Lombardia showcased both resilience and strategic prowess, reinforcing his status as one of cycling's elite despite not securing the win. Tadej Pogacar, the day's dominant force, ultimately crossed the finish line solo, leaving Evenepoel to claim second place, approximately three minutes and 16 seconds behind the Slovenian star. This result emphasizes not only Pogacar's formidable climbing ability but also Evenepoel's determination to compete at the highest level. In the aftermath of the race, Evenepoel's post-race interview reflected a mix of satisfaction and resolve. He articulated that he extracted the most from his efforts throughout the day. Recognizing Pogacar’s unparalleled...

The tragic hit-and-run incident on Boxing Day 2024 in Ormskirk has cast a shadow over the cycling community and raised urgent questions about road safety. A 29-year-old man from Burscough has been arrested on charges of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while disqualified after the collision resulted in the death of a man in his 50s. Such incidents not only underline the dangers cyclists face on the road but also highlight the need for greater accountability and awareness among drivers. Cycling is a popular and often encouraged mode of transport in the UK, with many individuals embracing it for its environmental benefits as well as personal health. Recent statistics show a significant rise in cycling participation...