View Poll Results: What should change
Ban on racing downhill
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0%
Ban on mountain stages
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0%
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Road Racing Cyclist Death
06-18-23, 09:21 AM
#1
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Road Racing Cyclist Death
I learned very recently of the sad death of a professional cyclist on a downhill section of the Tour de Suisse. Apparently the last death of a professional cyclist in similar circumstances was 12 years ago.
I like many cyclists have seen the Tour de France and seen the speeds obtained on downhill sections in the high Pyrenees and Alps. To go fast (racing) clearly affords an advantage downhill but is perilously risky to life and limb.
Something has to change in the light of the recent tragedy.
But what ? By whom and when?
To me I would favour a blanket ban on mountainous downhill sections. I favour them being taken out of the race in effect. Perhaps the race should be to the top of the 'cols'. If a stage involves multiple 'cols' then perhaps the riders should be timed to the top of the col, riders allowed to regroup cycle leisurely to the bottom and then racing resume etc.
Another option to mitigate the risks would involve a plethora of marshalls on downhill bends and the use of soft barriers etc.
A more radical idea would be to not use the mountainous stages at all.
I think the matter does require some consultation and some change agreed and made though in memory of this dreadful incident.
Any thoughts?
I like many cyclists have seen the Tour de France and seen the speeds obtained on downhill sections in the high Pyrenees and Alps. To go fast (racing) clearly affords an advantage downhill but is perilously risky to life and limb.
Something has to change in the light of the recent tragedy.
But what ? By whom and when?
To me I would favour a blanket ban on mountainous downhill sections. I favour them being taken out of the race in effect. Perhaps the race should be to the top of the 'cols'. If a stage involves multiple 'cols' then perhaps the riders should be timed to the top of the col, riders allowed to regroup cycle leisurely to the bottom and then racing resume etc.
Another option to mitigate the risks would involve a plethora of marshalls on downhill bends and the use of soft barriers etc.
A more radical idea would be to not use the mountainous stages at all.
I think the matter does require some consultation and some change agreed and made though in memory of this dreadful incident.
Any thoughts?
06-18-23, 09:33 AM
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06-18-23, 09:47 AM
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That's why we have helmets, roll cages, seat belts, airbags.
Cycling has frame limits and helmets and a few others.
When the risk becomes unacceptable, mitigation will occur.
