On episode 52 of the road.cc Podcast, we turn our attentions to a debate that dominated the especially grim opening two weeks of the recent Giro d’Italia: Have pro cyclists ‘gone soft’? That particular controversial question, fuelled in part by the decision to shorten a mid-race mountain stage due to torrential rain, even prompted some cycling fans to accuse the Giro peloton of being “weak” and modern racing of being “tailored to comfort”.
In part one of this week’s episode, George, Jack, and Ryan chat about how cycling’s continuing obsession with hardness – an obsession romanticised by tales of historic epic feats in shocking conditions, and riders ‘bravely’ carrying on through injury and illness – is beginning to butt against the reality of a sport which is now beginning to display a more modern, science-based, and human side.
We also chat about how pro cycling’s views on toughness can trickle down to amateur racers and weekend warriors, to whom logging massive miles and riding in horrific conditions can be badges of honour, and whether toughness is a requirement for every elite sportsperson, even if they’re a footballer…
In part two, Simon joins us to discuss the “carnival atmosphere” generated by DJ Dom Whiting, and the thousands of cyclists, walkers, and wheelers who joined him for his by-now iconic Drum & Bass On The Bike ride through central London at the weekend.
Simon even says the bike and beats takeover of London was greeted with enthusiasm by tourists and local motorists alike. Perhaps we’ve seen the future…