Tour de France update and discussion thread: Because it involves bikes. (long post)

[PotomacCyclist]

Contador really doesn't like it when the spectators get close. He did the same thing last year, punching at a guy who was too close to him.

By the way, I came across this freakish picture of George Hincapie's legs. Well, more like a picture of his incredible varicose vein problem.

WARNING: Not for sensitive viewers. It's not a Photoshopped picture but it might be disturbing to some people.

http://www.cyclingnews.com/tour-de-f.../photos/180969

[PotomacCyclist]

Congrats to Cadel Evans as the first Australian ever to win the Tour de France. He deserved the win for his smart strategic planning throughout the entire race. He knew when he had to chase and when he could afford to lay back and let others tire themselves out.

Andy Schleck may have put too much into that long solo breakaway on Galibier in the Alps. Thomas Voeckler had a great run, but he too made a tactical error in the Alps, trying to go it alone for a long stretch on the last Alpine stage. So close.

Can't wait until next year, when the competition should be good again. In addition to current favorites like Evans, the Schleck brothers, Contador (if he survives the UCI appeal of his doping test from last year) and maybe even Voeckler, rising stars like Pierre Rolland could challenge for the title.

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If you need to see more elite road cycling action, tune in for the inaugural USA Pro Cycling Challenge, Aug. 22-28, from Colorado. Both Andy and Frank Schleck have confirmed that they will participate. They are trying to convince Cadel Evans to join them for the new race up in the Rockies. Versus will cover the race.