About The Tour De France: The Complete Guide

September 24, 2023

Regarding the pinnacle of cycling, nothing beats the brilliance of the Tour de France. This legendary race is known worldwide for its intense competition, breathtaking scenery, and incredible player stories. It attracts cyclists and sports fans from all over the world. In this article, we'll give you an in-depth look at every aspect of the Tour de France.

Whether you're a cycling enthusiast, a sports fan, or someone interested in French history and culture, this article will be your perfect guide to everything you need to know about the Tour de France. This article will give you a complete overview of the Tour de France. From its origin and history to the rules of the race and the characteristics of the track.

Tour de France Origin And History

The founder of the Tour de France was French sports journalist Henri Desgrange. He created the tournament in 1903. The main goal of Henri Desgrange is to increase the sales of his sports newspaper, L'Auto. So he devised a bold plan: to organize a cycling event that would cover the whole of France and attract the attention of the masses.

On July 1, 1903, the first Tour de France officially started. A total of 60 cyclists participated. The event lasted six stages with a total distance of 2,428 kilometers. Competitors need to cross mountains, plains, and cities across France. French player Maurice Garin won the champion of the first competition. He became the first winner of the Tour de France.

The Tour de France has been held yearly since the inaugural event in 1903. It has also become one of the most important events in cycling. Events continue growing, and tracks change to accommodate new challenges and attract more cyclists and spectators. Many legendary cyclists have achieved great achievements throughout the history of the Tour de France. Such as Jacques Anquetil of France, Eddy Merckx of Belgium, Miguel Indurain of Spain, Lance Armstrong of the United States, and Chris Froome of the United Kingdom. The victories and legends of these cyclists became an integral part of the Tour de France.

Tour de France Features

The course of the Tour de France is different every year. But it usually includes mountain stages, flat road stages, and individual time stages. The mountain stage is the climax of the event. Here, players must climb steep hills and compete for the mountain jersey. These stages often pass through the magnificent mountains of France, such as the Alps and the Puy Reny Mountains. This adds both challenge and beauty to the event.

In addition, the team competition of the Tour de France is also very important. Each cycling team is made up of multiple riders. They must work together to compete for the various jerseys, strategize during the race, and sometimes even help the team leader. This teamwork makes the Tour de France a complex and tactical sporting event.

Competition Rules

The rules of the Tour de France are relatively complex, but some key points include:

The jersey: The most important in the race is the yellow jersey (Maillot Jaune), worn by the cyclist who leads the overall time. Other jerseys include a green jersey (Sprint points jersey) and a mountain jersey (Polka Dot jersey). They represent different classification competitions, respectively.
Mountain stage: The mountain stage of the Tour de France is the most challenging part. Players need to climb steep hills to compete for the mountain jersey. Notable mountain stages include the Alps and Puy Reny.
Collaboration And Team: Cycling is not just an individual race. It's also about teamwork. Each cycling team is made up of multiple riders. They will work together to achieve victory for the leader of the team.

Track Features

The course of the Tour de France is different every year. But it usually includes mountain stages, flat road stages, and individual time stages. The track traverses all over France. Riders face various weather and road conditions, from scorching summer sun to hail and torrential rain.

The race also often travels through France's beautiful countryside, cities, and places of interest. Audiences can appreciate the diverse cultures and landscapes of France. The changes to the track make the Tour de France the perfect blend of sport and tourism.

Some Common Sense About The Tour de France

As one of the world's most famous and important cycling events, many people want to know the basics about the Tour de France. Here are some common sense facts about it.

When Does The Tour de France Start

The start date of the Tour de France varies from year to year, but it typically begins in early July. The Tour de France is a three-week-long race. The race organizers determine the specific start date for each edition. To find the exact start date for a particular year, you can check the official Tour de France website or consult a reliable sports news source for the most up-to-date information.

How Long is The Tour de France

The Tour de France is a three-week-long cycling race. It consists of 21 stages over the course of approximately 23 days.

How Many Miles is The Tour de France

The Tour de France typically covers a distance of around 2,200 to 2,300 miles (or approximately 3,500 to 3,700 kilometers). However, the exact distance can vary yearly as the route changes.

How Many Stages in The Tour de France

What Cycling Gear Should You Pack For The Tour de France

Participating in the Tour de France requires a variety of riding gear. This ensures you will perform well and stay safe during the race. Here is some must-have riding gear:

Cycling Bike

Choose a high-performance road bike. Make sure it fits your body size and riding style. The quality of your bike is critical for long rides.

Cycling Beanie

Wear an approved bicycle helmet for head protection. Helmets should meet safety standards and be properly fastened.

Cycling Shoes

Choose professional cycling shoes and ensure they are compatible with your foot shape and bike pedals. Professional cycling shoes can provide better pedaling efficiency and comfort.

Cycling Gloves

Cycling gloves can protect hands, reduce pressure, and provide extra grip. They are very important for comfort and control on long rides.

Cycling Clothing

Professional cycling clothing often features moisture-wicking materials that help dry your body and allow for better air circulation. This includes things like cycling pants, jerseys, and socks. Choose the right cycling clothing according to the weather.

Cycling Glasses

Professional cycling glasses can protect your eyes from wind, bugs, and sunlight, improving riding safety and comfort.

Cycling Bag

Bring some basic gear and water. Hydration bladders are usually better for longer rides as they allow you to drink while riding easily.

Tools And Repair Gear

Carry a small set of bike repair tools. Includes inner tube, tire tool, pump, and multi-tool. This can help you fix minor issues down the road.

Spare Parts

Carry spare inner tubes, chains, and other parts that may need to be replaced as needed.

lighting device

If you ride in low light conditions or the morning or evening, ensure you have front and rear lights on your bike for better visibility.

Windproof Cycling Jacket

When riding in alpine regions, the temperature can drop suddenly. So it's wise to carry a light windproof jacket.

Before participating in the Tour de France, ensure your cycling gear is checked and maintained to ensure it will function properly during the race. Also, learn about the game's rules to ensure your gear matches the event's requirements.

Conclusion

When you're ready to embark on your riding adventure, ensure your riding gear is as good as your ambitions. Investing in high-quality cycling gear is crucial when competing in a world-class race like the Tour de France. Luckily, a provider can help you get there - Jelenew.

Jelenew cycling clothing is known for its superior quality and design. Not only do they deliver great performance, they also give you confidence. Whether you are a professional rider or a casual cycling enthusiast, Jelenew offers various cycling gear. Includes cycling jersey, helmet, gloves, and other accessories to keep you comfortable, stylish, and safe on your ride. For your next cycling adventure, consider Jelenew to take your cycling experience to the next level.