What it takes to win
In cycling, there are three primary types of fuel athletes rely upon to get to the finish line. Different energy sources are like different types of fuel in a car, and the riders all have different kinds of engines. Based on each rider’s natural abilities, we can generally categorize riders as Sprinters, All-Rounders or Climbers. Hover over the icon for each rider type to see what kind of engine they have.
All-Rounder (Unleaded)
All-Rounders can race for a long time at near-maximum effort. However, since they burn primarily unleaded fuel they're not the most efficient rider type, and if not careful can come up empty before the finish line. Nonetheless, you may see some attack early to try and form a breakaway and take a chance for glory. Mostly they come up short against GC contenders...but sometimes luck or tactics lead to victory.
Climber (Diesel)
Also referred to as General Classification (“GC”) riders or Stage Racers. Climbers will excel on the mountainous USAPC route. GC riders are very efficient at burning energy and recovering day to day in these multi-day races, and are similar to diesel engines that get more out of each gallon than unleaded/nitro. These "diesel engines" typically come packaged in a light compact body, aiding speedy ascents with less weight to carry.
Sprinter (Nitro)
Riders who can win massive field sprints and out-duel other riders to the finish line at speeds approaching 50 mph are similar to nitro-burning dragsters. Fast-twitch muscle coupled with an engine that can supply quick-burning energy to working muscles makes this a rare and exciting-to-watch breed. Look for these riders to excel on “flat and fast” stages.
Stages See prerace stage predictions and postrace “by the numbers” analysis for each stage.
View files and analysis from the 2011 USA Pro Cycling Challenge.
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