The Tour de France showcases the world's most minuscule upgrades, where every gain, no matter how small, can make a difference. The concept of 'marginal gains' has become a mantra in cycling, with teams constantly seeking improvements. From tape to derailleurs, every part of the bike is scrutinized for potential gains. Here are some of the most comically minuscule upgrades I've come across:
- Tape Over Everything: Teams like Visma-Lease a Bike tape over every bolt and void, even seatpost adjustment bolts. This might seem trivial, but it reduces drag and showcases the meticulous attention to detail.
- Aerodynamic Bottom Bracket: UAE Team Emirates uses a smooth, non-drive side threaded cup for their bottom bracket, claiming wattage savings. However, the proprietary tool required to remove it limits its accessibility.
- Special Jockey Wheel Bolts: Aluminum bolts for jockey wheels reduce weight and are a step towards UCI weight limits. This simple change demonstrates the ongoing pursuit of every possible gain.
- Strips of Coloured Tape: Lidl-Trek's colorful tape on TT bikes reduces cognitive load and potentially aero drag. This smart hack shows how small changes can impact performance.
- DIY Aero Derailleur: Black electrical tape over derailleur cages adds a gram or two, but it's a cheap and effective way to improve aerodynamics.
- Superlight Bottle Cages: The new Elite Leggero Carbon cages save 27g per pair, a significant gain. Tadej Pogačar's preference for these cages highlights the importance of every weight-saving measure.
- Aftermarket Thru-Axles: Lightweight aluminum thru-axles from CarbonTi save 31g on the rear of a Y1Rs. While carbon options exist, the aluminum version is more accessible and still offers notable weight savings.
- Lightweight Disc Rotor Lockrings: Lidl-Trek's hubs feature Tactic-branded lockrings, claiming 12.4g per pair. This upgrade is likely more about aesthetics and sponsorship than significant performance gains.
- Old Series Garmin: Jonas Vingegaard's choice of the older Garmin Edge 540 over the newer model suggests a focus on simplicity and reliability for time trials.
- Aftermarket Derailleur Hanger: Various colored derailleur hangers are seen on Pogačar's bike, promising lower weight and crisper shifting, though the actual gains are hard to quantify.
- Aerodynamic Saddle: The Prologo Choice saddle with side vents claims unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency. While the €490 price tag is steep, it showcases the extreme measures teams take to gain every possible advantage.
