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Comments - If you hit the king, you have to kill him.

July 21, 2009

I surrender. It will never end. You Lance haters will always believe he was a doper. The fact that the very people who tested him over and over and over and....., used every single scientific tool available, and also wanted to prove he doped more than even you Lance haters, only served to prove his innocence, means nothing to you. All of you know more than the scientists. You are brilliant people. You even know how he doped and got away with it. You should all have bright futures with any professional athletes willing to cross the line. Why not stop blogging about Lance being a doper for a day, and get your resume out to the athletes willing to cheat if they can get away with it. All you Lance haters know how it was done, so you're bound to be a valuable assett to anyone wanting to cheat their way to the top. Or, better yet, move to France and become a part of their testing group. Your brilliance is a gift that must not be wasted, and I can't think of anywhere else in the world that deserves your brilliant minds more than France.
- Ed, Franklin, KY

July 20, 2009

The king is lying, bleeding on the floor. Pun intended
- Aaron, Melbourne

July 20, 2009

That said, though his career is nothing but spectacle, he is a pro's pro, master of PR and probably the reason that 90% of us are interested in cycling at all. Love him or hate him, Lance is a force of nature and he looks to be playing 2nd fiddle with pure class.
- Joe, Portland

July 20, 2009

Early in his career, Lance publicized his trained VO2 max of ~82. This is more than 10% too low to be a TdF GC contender. Simple scientific fact. Lemond's was ~93, Landis rumored to be 90+, Ullrich and Basso up there as well. Indurain was ~88, and the first dominant rider of the EPO era. VO2 max is the single most consistent limiting factor in cycling. Supposedly, Lance has very low blood lactate levels, which is why he was characterized early in his career as a classics rider. Low lactate levels would be extremely helpful for constantly needing to redline, recover and redline again. But on long climbs, it all comes down to VO2 max, and Lance doesn't have that. His gift comes from being a great responder to blood boosters and his team (Ferrari) is THE BEST at combining doping and training. True, he was the best of a dirty era. But his cause is rotten at the core and he watched many of the generations best talents end their careers in embarrassment, as he stood by laughed and denied.
- Joe, Portland

July 20, 2009

I will hold judgment on Lance until I see what happens on the next three stages, including whether he holds back on the ITT (or instead burns a bunch of matches that the team could use on Ventoux). His sense of entitlement and indifference to the division he created is grating to me, but I also feel that it was part his due given his success at the Tour and part his pride, which is understandable. He reportedly has an amazing ability to process events and move on, and if he moves on from yesterday and helps the team reach its goal instead of his personal goal, that could go a long towards healing any rifts he has caused since he announced his return to top-level cycling.
- Jules, DC

July 20, 2009

Folks, magnanimity and class don't start on Stage 15. They are a state of being that LA doesn't understand. That is exactly why he has haters. If he's a "gentleman", which he is well known for not being, then I'd hate to see a "lady". He's a champion, no doubt, but this Tour alone has proven he has to be beaten before he'll treat anybody with respect. That's pathetic.
- Jay, Needham

July 20, 2009

Contador smacked the king across the face. Let him know he was coming to kill him and there wasn't a thing the king could do about it. Armstrong has been more then impressive in this comeback, no matter whether he winds up on the podium or not but you can't fight father time. Add to that Contador may be the greatest climber of all time. I don't blame Contador for defending his position on the team and in the tour. I look forward to them working together. I hope Lance can hang onto a podium spot but Ventoux is not likely to be fun for him.
- Hank, Miami

July 20, 2009

Even in conceding defeat, LA displays that magnanimous quality that endears him to millions: "If we ride into Paris with the yellow jersey in the team, I’m cool with that. I’ve got seven of them at home.” What a gentleman! Oh and in case you missed it, we get video evidence of what a team player LA was on the climb to Verbier here: http://cyclocosm.com/2009/07/how-the-race-was-won-stage-15-2009-tour-de-france/. All of you who love LA, hey whatever, no one will ever change your mind about him. Rational argument is hopeless in the face of irrationality. I am just hoping when there are those who take issue with the things he does and says, you won't immediately descend into attacks of how those people are mean, selfish puppy killers. Peace and Love.
- Dexter, Madrid

July 20, 2009

LOL. Oh my god! Hysterical! Ed, I know nothing about you. And I know you know nothing about me, and in particular the contributions I've made to the world. And for both our sakes, let's keep it that way. I am allergic to the sanctimonious self-righteous type. Peace and Love.
- Dexter, Madrid

July 19, 2009

According to Reuters Armstrong has announced he will be riding for Contador after today's stage (15). He's conceded that he used to be able to accelerate on a climb like Contador but he no longer can. http://sports.yahoo.com/sc/news;_ylt=Ar6qYp201S8fagptNDGfG4l.grcF?slug=reu-tourarmstrong&prov=reuters&type=lgns Contador's earlier attack was premature and probably caused by the pressure of having his leadership called into question. He doesn't have the tactical savvy of Armstrong. But today he let his legs do the talking and there is no doubt now who is the leader of Astana and the strongest rider in the race. I'm sure Armstrong will be the consumate professional and the team will now refocus in support of Contador's leadership.
- Hank, Miami

July 19, 2009

Only in cycling -- and only with LA - do people dismiss, write off, do a happy dance, and joyfully sing out loud the demise of a rider who doesn't (almost certainly couldn't) follow a teammate's attack. loses time to him, finishes in the top ten of a mountain stage, and MOVES UP into second place overall. I'm not in love with LA, but for chrissakes, a little reality please. All that happened today was what most thinking fans thought might happen: AC attacked on a summit and popped everybody. Everybody. Including all those clean, choirboys who for some reason are more deserving of our admiration than some other guy who has never tested positive either. I just don't get all the LA haters... please educate me.
- Jay, Mansfield

July 19, 2009

No matter what you "Lance Haters" spew out, I'm willing to bet not one of you have made any significant contribution to anything but yourselves. Lance has inspired millions to buy and ride bikes, Lance has raised millions of dollars in the fight for cancer (of which many of you haters have probably directly or indirectly benefitted), and he has inspired countless people to fight their demons, whatever they may be. The bottom line is this. Lance has done more for the sport of cycling in America than anyone in history. The crap you Lance haters keep putting out only serves to damage the growth and following of this beautiful sport. I'm sure Lance hates all of you too, and has a worldwide stage to tell you that, but he won't, because he loves this sport, and he is a gentleman. Maybe you should all take a good look at yourselves before you spew your vomit on the rest of us. I can't imagine you'd like what you see, so I doubt you'll take that advice, but mirrors are everywhere. The mirror will show you the monster, and I guarantee it's name isn't Lance.
- Ed, Franklin, KY

July 19, 2009

Amen, Collection. But I don't think you are quite able to fathom the depths of Armstrong's self-delusion. He thinks with a race year in his legs he will be able to improve next year. I am not sure that this mantra will serve him quite as well "I'm the most tested athlete and I have never tested positive." But it's a worth a try. He can just remember the advice of George Castanza: "It's not a lie if you believe it to be true."
- Dexter, Madrid

July 19, 2009

Well it looks like the 7XTDFW learned today what any 350 pound, two pack a day smoker, couch potato with a cable connection to Versus already knew. Namely that AC is a gifted climber and one of the best ever and that the current crop of top tier professional cyclists are for REAL. What makes today’s stage on the TDF especially heartening is that (assuming people were riding clean) it states loud and clear that professional cycling does not need Lance Armstrong now that Contador, Sastre, Wiggins, Evans, the Schlecks, Nibali, and Kloden all left the 7XTDFW behind, several of them made it look easy. The stages leading up today reminded me of past heavyweight fights with a lot of trash talking beforehand only for the actual fight to be ended in the first round with a TKO. For all, I mean for all the shit the 7XTDFW was talking I fully expected him to smackdown Contador and company, but it didn’t happen. The 7XTDFW needs to carefully examine all the nonsense someone must have been saying to him and why did he believe it? Will he be back next year, why would he? Good Riddance!
- Collection , NYC

July 19, 2009

erm...wait, WHEN did you post this? Before or after Contador b***h slapped everyone in the Tour on the second most important day of the race? I suppose a simply using an interweb browser (that's what you use to view the internet) would have shown you that today's stage was, well...going to matter. Perhaps next time, you'll wait a day to post another article in this already fun to read section.
- Larry, Boulder

July 19, 2009

I think he may have killed him today.
- Gary, Winnipeg

July 19, 2009

If you really believe Armstrong is the "King", then he just got pasted with a good one. Why is there always some joker who thinks because they've been in a race in their life it somehow makes them an expert on race tactics and disqualifies everyone else (even though they have no idea whether those they are dismissing have raced themselves). Greg from SF, it's a pity that your understanding of race strategy is going to leave you out from enjoying one of the greatest stage racers in history. My heart goes out to you.
- Dexter, Madrid

July 19, 2009

Well, that looked like a pretty good hit...
- rick w, wpb, fl

July 19, 2009

Finally! Someone who saw the same thing in the new Giro Prolight!! I've been telling people that it looked like they just took the style of helmets back about 10 years! I hope the Prolight's LIGHT...because it's sure as hell UGLY! Notice most of the guys have gone back to the Ionos since they first wore them on Stage 7 I think it was. I'll rather lug around the extra 100 grams than look like Levi does wearing that dome on his head.
- Scott , Sparta, TN

July 18, 2009

to everyone posting, you all need to recalibrate your reality detectors, and instead of spewing vitriol and verbal diarrhea about LA/Contador vs everyone and everything, why don't you instead celebrate the beauty of the tour and the other hard racing being accomplished by some exceptional athletes NOT named either of the above? The ongoing battle for green is enthralling, the maillot a pois battle is shaping up to be a doozy with a hyper motivated Pelizotti kicking it into gear with some sharp focus, and Hausler scored a brilliant solo victory from what what basically kilometer zero today in the shit. And you argue about those 2 other clowns over and over? get a grip.
- phil, montreal

July 17, 2009

You know, I am constantly amazed at the number of prejudiced dumbass cycling fans and non cycling people as well that can't seem to get over the idea that Lance is/was a great rider with lots of experience and talent and an unmatched engine. If you think he is a doper, prove it. No one else can/could and you can bet they have tried and are trying. Barring an outright railroad job akin to Floyd Landis's travesty they never will. Lance never has failed a drug test, therefore it never happened. Try just enjoying the beautiful sport of cycling and forget the bullshit. Come on, give me a break.
- Steve , Tucson, AZ

July 17, 2009

I was really pissed when Merckx( Armstrong buissiness partner) berated AC! Class!! Merckx and Lanc would have done the same thing AC did on the climbing stage.. Lances "class" is shite. When he chased down Simeoni years ago I lost respect for him.. Here, here! Lance is a crybaby!
- Jim, TROY, NY

July 17, 2009

Can you blame GH for giving 7XTDFW the tip? (if that is really the case). 7XTDFW made GH's career, paid him big bucks out of his own pocket for each of his wins and got him media coverage he would never have had- I like GH plenty but realisticaly people know him because of 7XTDFW. Finally, if there was a tip, I chalk that up to Euro style bike racing-Cuthroat: Sometimes friends on the road are worth more than those on your team. But that being said I doubt GH gave 7XTDFW the tip- and I will preface this by saying I am a hater of 7XTDFW- 7XTDFW is champ at reading races and knowing where to sit in: the man was trained early in his career to be a classics racer which requires a strong talent in reading races. AC may well be remembered as one of the greatest stage racers ever, but his record in terms of his tactical savy is less than stellar. (BTW- nice to know JP Partland is writing for you guys. He is full on class).
- Frenchy , NYC

July 17, 2009

Armstrong has clearly become very rich and very powerful due to systematic doping of the highest level. He continues to deny and use the cape of 'cancer prevention' as his only defense. Millar, has doped, has been punished for doping, has come clean and now speaks frankly about the problems within cycling. Now, people rooting for Contador over Lance, that's a bit more of a mystery.
- Joe, Hangin in Kits beach

July 17, 2009

To Greg in San Fran - What you state with respect to team behavior is absolutely correct if Astana was a true team, it isn’t.. Astana is a team in name only, which was apparent when 7XTDFW went across the gap with Columbia, as others have stated, probably on a tip from GH. Lets assume there was no tip and he used his vast racing experience to figure out what was obvious to him, in either scenario did he share this information with his fellow Astana GC contenders? No, no he didn’t. The obligation of teamwork goes both ways 7XTDFW didn’t display any in the break with Columbia and AC isn’t required to show any going up a mountain.
- Collection, NYC

July 17, 2009

You know, the back and forth on this site is sooo much more informed and balanced than the "commentary" on Vs. This is particularly important this year since Contador's attack notwithstanding, NOTHING HAS HAPPENED! Without the Astana telenovela it might as well be 2 weeks of cyclotourism and a week in the Alps.
- Steve, Miami

July 17, 2009

Adam, Hamilton: Where was Leipheimer, Kloden, et al? My point is that he wasn't "caught out". LA had inside information of Columbia's break. LA would have been gapped without that information too.
- Jay, Needham

July 16, 2009

Jay, Needham, This was the second time that Contador has been gapped in the crosswinds this year alone. Chavanel and Quickstep stuck it to him in Paris Nice and he lost the leaders jersey then. How long does it take to learn a simple lesson?
- adam, hamilton

July 16, 2009

To Collection in NYC - We understand why Contador attacked on Arcalis, we simply don't respect his behavior. I think Eddy Merck made the point clearly within 24hours of the event, and EM is known for his ruthless attacks, team leadership, and ability to win all the grand tours . . . a true Champion. For cycling Contador's attack on Arcalis was akin to a left offensive tackle turning around and sacking his own quarterback . . . or if you prefer to think of Contador as the quarterback . . . it is like the quarterback intentionally tripping the offside half back in an option play. I thought a football analogy might be fitting, Collection and Contador defenders may have played football at some point, but it is clear that Collection has never raced a bike on a team. Regardless of whether Contador wins the Tour in '09, the insecurity he displayed on Arcalis and lack of teamwork will keep me from considering him anything close to a champion. Being a team leader is more than being able to break from the pack for 21 seconds while your team mates defend your backstabbing attack.
- Greg, San Francisco

July 16, 2009

Phil, Paul & Bob rock! So they are a bit like school boys, at least they know what they are talking about, they have been there in the Tour themselves. They sound like adolescent boys (without the cracking voice), but they are insiders and bring respectful fun to the event. They also make it accessible and fun for friends and family who have never won a cycling event. Let's face it, the tour is a bunch of boys who never grew up living dreams of glory. It is only fitting that the commentators bring a bit of this flare to the audience. Ok, so Craig Hummer needs to go, he reminds me of Andy (not Hampsten), boastful and arrogant but with no real pro caliber talent or experience to back it up. As for the commercials, I DVR the broadcast, and start watching 1 hour into the coverage. I fast forward through the commercials and Andy's . . . er . . . Craig Hummer's drivel . . . I tend to catch up with Live Coverage near the end of the race for the finish . . . PRESTO . . . commercial free coverage.
- Greg, San Francisco

July 16, 2009

LA was tipped by GH. Sick. People complain about cyclingnews, but apparently don't read it. LA wasn't smart about the Stage 3 break. GH let him in on it. Like one former college teammate giving the playbook to another during the Pro finals. Can't stand GH now. Besides, if it was SO obvious Contador should have been up front, why wasn't "the master" teaching him the tricks? I would think LA was the man if he was passing on his wisdom to the up-and-comer. He is tarnishing his reputation -- just like Hinault in '86.
- Jay, Needham

July 16, 2009

Vs. coverage is pretty damn good. I like the additional info, stories, training, etc. Remember several years ago and we had to watch that damn car commercial over and over. Overall the giro helmet seems to be great with lightweight, but i like the look of the ionos better. one last thing, read the hinault interview on velonews.com, classic hinault!
- Bill, Nor cal

July 16, 2009

I love these posts! My only comment is that isn't Contador the King, and wasn't leaving him out on the crosswinds the feeble blow?
- Steve, Miami

July 16, 2009

Um...Giro, 1980 called and they want their helmets back. Also have a read of the Velonews ass kissing story. The guys there must all ride Specialized bikes and Giro helmets!
- Chris, Sydney.

July 16, 2009

TUF rocks! Favorite college sleep album and rainy Sunday album (Disintegration a close second). I can't believe no mention of the Cancellara descent video as most inspiring video and "sorry I soiled the carpet ma'am; but I puckered watching him descend and I'm not worthy". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgVmq4UBJs4
- Ted, Kigali

July 15, 2009

I know this is off subject, but could someone send me the link to the famous "legs" post. I think I followed the link from one of your articles to the BKW sight. I would love to find that shit again. It was unreal. Bloodpipes. kdmginc@aol.com
- Keith, Memphis

July 15, 2009

Well said, Collection, well said.
- Chris, Brooklyn

July 15, 2009

I like your blog, your honesty, your bluntness, your ability to throw a little bit of everyday life into every blog and although I don't agree with everything, I can still appreciate your opinion. To all those persons threatening to never buy anything from CC again.... I say "cry me a river" if you were offended, go read Bicycling.com because it is guaranteed to be a nice, easy, unoffensive read.
- Nico, Waterloo, ON

July 15, 2009

Amen, CollectionNYC.
- Dexter, Madrid

July 15, 2009

A lot of people dislike the Versus TDF coverage. I'm not one of them; I'm not informed enough to be offended by any of it (I'm just grateful that I can watch the race on American tv) EXCEPT that Paul Sherwen keeps mispronouncing "Bike" as the guttural "Bite". Somebody needs to smack him repeatedly until he acknowledges that they are all riding biKes, not biTes. Paul: it's not cute, it's irritating.
- Ron, Millburn NJ

July 15, 2009

Call me a cynic but when a large cycling website fervently touts a 7 time TDF winner to win # 8, riding a leading bicycle brand that doesn’t currently have an internet retailer at best it sounds like its trying to curry favor, at worst its unabashed ass licking....please stop it! In the 7XTDFW we have a person who belittles last years’ winner stating Sastre won due to attacking on one stage? Kind of how Ventoux is shaping up this year, huh? In belittling Contador he depicts him as a rider that has been s riding "well" in the last 18 months, even though Alberto Contador is only the 5th rider to win all 3 grand tours. For all those people who don't understand why Contador raced ahead to put time, no matter how much time into 7XTDFW, let me help you, numbnutz, he was behind and now he's not, still not clear, go stand in a long line somewhere, the concept will come to you....in time. Worst of all he belittles the efforts of fellow American cyclist Christian Van De Velde, saying he could only manage a 5th place even though it was Garmin's first tour and Christian's first as a leader of a team. Given the fragile state of professional cycling is this the behavior of a great champion? I don't recall 7 time Formula 1 champion Michael Shumacher belittling his peers, nor have I heard news that Valentino Rossi belittles the skill and talent of his peers, both fierce competitors they don't belittle their peers. For those of you who look to 7XTDFW for inspiration, grow up and grow a pair. Hero worship is for six year olds. As far as the cancer thing goes; it’s not his disease, it’s his PLATFORM, just like CHANGE was Obama’s. Truth be told I’m not a hater, if he won 7 TDFs clean then more power to him, but I have a problem with AFA , Adoration for Assholes and this guy, this guy is an Asshole!
- Collection , NYC

July 15, 2009

Let me respond to the ad hominem attacks by our intellectual giant and former president from Texas by addressing his understanding of race strategy. I conceded that LA was in the right place at the right time during the wind-swept stage 3. Chapeau! The mistake was Bruyneel's by having two domestiques take hard pulls at the front, which only extended the gap by 10 seconds. Hardly worth it if it means losing the confidence of at least one of your possible GC winners. Is that clearer for you? As far as when Contador staged his attack, he probably would have done better by doing 7kms out, granted. But he, quite contrary to your opinion and most of your ilk, is a team player who was waiting for an attack from one of the other GC contenders. When it didn't come, he saw an opportunity and took it. As far as that effort impacting his Alps efforts, I think with a rest day and a week separating the two it's a bit of a stretch to say that will translate into a loss of two minutes. If this were the case, let's consider every effort in that regard and we quickly slip into absurdity. To ease your jingoistic heart, Mr. Bush, I am a US citizen, so your attempts at dismissing me as one of your "euro brothers" is a little pointless. BTW: Shouldn't you be burning brush on the ranch or some other retirement activity?
- Dexter, Madrid

July 15, 2009

Usually I enjoy your posts, but this comes across as little more than an angry rant. There are enough rants in the world.
- Cory, Minneapolis

July 14, 2009

Chris, and Rick, in Little Rock - There is more to say, sorry. It's not just Dave Walsh that's saying it. He's reporting and cataloguing what lots of others have been saying for ten years. And don't rely on French/L'Equipe bashing to discredit the reporting that LA did indeed test positive for drugs in the 99 tour. The fact is, the French had nothing against him then, before his first win (why would they) and other riders tested positive as well. The UCI is as much to blame for ignoring it as LA is for eventually suing (buying) his way out it. The 99 tour was the "comeback" tour - sound familiar (2008) from the 1997 Festina scandal. I ask you again - how do you explain LA's secretive associate with Ferrari? And who cares about high school? Trialthlons? Really? There are thousands of athletes out there who deserve more recognition than LA for their accomplishments if THAT's your criteria. Lance in a one trick pony. He actually used to be respected as a cyclist - Paris Nice, Tour de Suisse. He was a spring classics guy. He won tour stages. The Euros liked him. It was when he started focusing only Le Tour that they turned on him (much as they did on LeMond in 90). He is no better than Sammy Sosa or Mark McGuire...can't hit for average, or run, shitty fielders, just want to pad their stats by focusing on only one asset of a complex multi-faceted game, and people call them "the greatest." Called them. It's coming back to bite LA in the ass just like it has them, and you sycophants can't stand it. Actually Barry Bonds is a better comparison LA would've Chris Horner before Chris Horner was Chris Horner. A tough, bad ass domestic pro who could hold his own in the Euro peleton, who never needed to dope to prove to himself he was great. Barry hit for average, runs, and could steal bases like a burgler, but he became so obsessed with the adulation on Sammy and Mark he had to cheat too. LA won a lot of races, big races, and won them clean. Dave Walsh reported this too, but I guess that's all shit too right because he tells the whole tragic story? That LA couldn't stand losing to dopers so he became one himself.
- Brian, Chicago

July 14, 2009

Swiss Steve and Spanish Dexter exhibit a complete lack of understanding of basic cycling tactics. Odd that our much smarter and more sophisticated euro brothers (sarcasm intended) would not know anything about racing before posting a diatribe against LA. For your benefit, this new worlder will point out for you: 1. In a windy stage on a twisting road, one needs to try to stay on the front in case an opposing team tries to gutter you. Everyone else (except the euro racer wannabes) will know this and try to be on the front too. Endevour to persevere and hope you are lucky enough to be on the front when the attack comes. Bruyneel didn't have the team work for LA until it was clear the break was going to stay out. Just good team tactics and a little luck. 2. When attacking, pick the hardest part of the course, preferably a steep hill that negates the aero advantage of the following peleton. Make your attack early enough so that you have time to punish your opponent ruthlessly, preferably so that he stops, gets off his bike, and dies. It's useless to attack late on a weak climb into a stiff wind in a stage race, because if you gain 20 sec and use up a bunch of energy, some one is likely to take 2 min from you in the Alps when you crack. Mean time, if you screw up and get the yellow, your team has to work to defend it for a week instead of resting, and you will find your self all alone, blown out the back on Ventoux. 3. Keep the opposing teams in the dark about who your GC guy really is as long as you can. Keep your options open, a random crash can change your prospects in an instant. Drum up "tension' rumours and make everyone wonder what's going on. Hate LA all you want, it's what makes sports interesting. Just know what you are talking about. Please. I was a Lemond fan, and he was a whining drama queen when he raced, and is apparently having a mental breakdown now. But, he was a great cyclist, one of the best. So is LA. He won the greatest race 7 times in a row. He's not Merkx, but no one is. Is LA a doper? Experience has taught me not to defend anyone in any sport. All I know is, he passed the tests. Till he fails one, chapeau dude. Or to my spanish friend, sombrero, vato.
- George Bush, Dallas

July 14, 2009

NPR has a commentary on doping...says they're still doing it, even if no one's caught yet. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106354318
- Bob, Carbondale

July 14, 2009

I understand that you live in the US and are therefore infected with the ass delusion that Lance Armstrong can do no wrong. But the original "fuck you" if you will came when Bruyneel. Just days after announcing Contador as the leader of the team (with much griping from LA) he had Popovych and Zubeldia take frequent pulls when they together with Armstrong got into a break. Armstrong was in the right place, but you don't have your team take pulls to add 10 seconds on your titular leader. Stupid move on Bruyneel's part that could only breed resentment and a lack of trust. And then when the leader of your team (or so Bruyneel led us to believe in a quite public press conference) and one of the best climbers in the world jumps out with 2km to go in one of just three mountain top finishes and puts 20 seconds into the rest of GC contenders, what is his response? Pat on the back? Well done? Way to go? NO, instead we get that wasn't part of the plan. The plan was to wait for an attack (which really never came) and if you were going to counter attack tell somebody. Contador didn't tell Armstrong. That's the crime. Unbelievable! Here's the deal. Bruyneel didn't know whether Armstrong had the goods coming into the race to deliver. Now he knows he has a legitimate shot. Based on that, the game has changed. Armstrong can deliver a new sponsor, a new job and a way to stay in the spot light after Astana kick him, Armstrong and all Armstrong's flunkies off the team. Are the guys at Astana idiots for doing that? Sure they are. And they can forget about keeping Contador either. Hello Santander Cycling Team. But the truth is that Armstrong can deliver Bruyneel a paycheck in a way that Contador can't (or at this point, wouldn't) and no one can ever say that Bruyneel doesn't know what side his bread is buttered on.
- Dexter, Madrid

July 14, 2009

@Chris, Little Rock--Well done! There is nothing left to say. Now let's enjoy the tour.
- Rick , Little Rock

July 14, 2009

@ Brian in Chicago -- "Ain't no innuendo. He tested 6 times in 99 for EPO, according to David Walsh." Yessss.... I see now.... Because David Walsh is the be all and end all of drug testing and was the authority in charge at the time that the alleged doping took place. And here I was assuming that the UCI and WADA were in charge of testing and sanctioning and that, according to all of their evidence and records, Lance has never tested positive. I guess that in sports, the rules don't apply if you don't like the outcome... // I'm not and never would defend Armstrong's ATTITUDE. He's kind of a prick to a lot of people. He was when he was winning cross country races in high school. He was when he was demolishing people as a very young professional triathlete. He was when he became one of the youngest world road race champions in history. He was when he went on his 7 year TdF run. He still is a prick to a lot of people. So what? Say he's a prick and I'll agree with you 100%. Say he's cheated and I'll call you a liar because the rules and ruling bodies of the sport say he hasn't. Maybe he just hasn't gotten caught, I don't know, but then neither do you. Sorry that you don't like his ATTITUDE (neither do I), but reality says that his ACCOMPLISHMENTS are unassailable.
- Chris, Little Rock

July 14, 2009

I like your website alot, but why use the f bomb. You could have gotten your point across without it. I found it offensive, and I am sure I am not alone. This simple thing will cost you my business, which has been good lately.
- freddie, texarkana

July 14, 2009

Have always enjoyed this blog, but the vitriolic tone of the first couple of items this week really jarred.
- D O'Brien, Dublin, Ireland

July 14, 2009

Totally agree about the new helmet, looks like the same helmet Lance was wearing when he first won Le Tour, and whats with the colour schemes, icckk. By the way "The Photographer" is awesome, its like a brand new "Tintin" but 265 pages long, MERCI!
- Sébastien, Ottawa

July 14, 2009

I think you took a safe stance business-wise. Us LA haters will still buy from you, but you wouldn't see the same from the Kool-Aid crowd. Who are the real haters then? I agree on the new Giro - meh! I truly want to wear an ugly helmet - find a Catlike Whisper loophole over here and I'll order a couple. While you're at it add some Mets and the BBox lids.
- Doug, Denver

July 14, 2009

I enjoy this blog, but your criticism of Contador supporters ignores the tactics at stake...... AC did not want to WIIN the Tour in Arcalis- he wanted to get back the 20 sec he lost on stage 3...If Fact, by NOT winning the stage, he gave the ASTANA team a weekend off, and obliged others to chase... I am no Lance hater- the man is an exceptional athlete and chapeau for his comeback to the front of the peloton- AGAIN! BUT he is a hyper-competetive champion who refuses to cede the spotlight, struggles when out of control and is pissed when he does not have 8 men willing to Leipheimer themselves for him in a Hincapean way every July...No worries...I get that... But I'm sorry, 22 seconds on stage 1 and 21 seconds on stage 7- in 1500m as you said- says that he is NOT the strongest man in the race, or- unfortunately for him- on his team. The endless spin and drama about "plans" made on the bus that he insists on injecting tinto the tour is pointless... Its a dumb-assed PLAN to NOT let the world's BEST power climber attack the field on a 7.9% grade in the pyrenees when he is sooo strong and the peloton is not...Its silly to say anythng else...Even the most rudimentary cycling tactician would see the stupidity of PLANNING to hold back your best rider in HIS favoured terrain when he is so close to the Jersey...If LA was so salty he could have gotten on AC's wheel, and did a 2 man TT up the side of the mountain, or bridged to AC and sent his punk ass pack to the peloton a la Simeoni back in the day..But he didn't...Why? Simple! He COULD'NT! ...And as for planning, was the PLAN to put 2 doms in the fromt to distance AC in the stage 3 breakout AFTER he knew the time gaps? No, that was a decision made on the road, and chapeau to Lance. He rolled the dice and gave up with 7's...I would respect him more if he returned the respect to AC...Ho won't and that's cool- AC will smile in yellow in Paris... Anyway, AC says he will not attack LA, and LA is behind AC in the classement...LA will now have the opportunity to reprise 2001 Lance. All AC has to do is follow the wheels of the counterattacks that are BOUND to come from Cadel/Schleck/Garmin/Sastre et al....Trust me- me has NO issues attacking THEM.. I think that if you take a broader, strategic view, you will see that AC is playing a - dare I say smarter? game than the old Maestro... Again, nice work on the blog...Even if we have this friendly disagreement! DrNurse
- Stephen, Geneva, Switzerland

July 14, 2009

People say Lance must be a doper because he's won the Tour ahead of rivals that were dirty, and that no clean rider could do that. But I doubt those haters have lived with someone battling cancer, and enduring chemotherapy and radiation. Believe me, it alters you. It is horrible and painful and you don't get to pull off the side of the road when you're beat, because the sag wagon in that race is a hearse. It's the equivalent of having someone holding a gun to your head 24/7. The strength required to win a bike race is nothing compared to the intensity and fear of fighting for your life day in and day out. If Lance is guilty of anything it's that he's been through that experience, and racing a bike or running a marathon pales in comparison.
- Sean, Murrieta, CA

July 14, 2009

always amazed me that riders who follow strict diets, ride bikes that weigh nothing and wear lycra that hugs real real tight then just put a big square number on with safety pins! Are these safety pins ever tested in the wind tunnel ;)
- Justin Barrie, Canberra Australia

July 14, 2009

I was under the impression Cervelo TT was using 7800 because it actually works better, which is what every pro I know who's forced to ride 7900 has said. Shimano has yet to master the art of under the bar shifter cable routing. Long live Campy 10spd. I hate LA because he left his pregnant wife to date Sheryl Crow, then left her to date an Olsen Twin. That alone should net a lifetime ban. But even I have to admit he makes the race more interesting.
- Adam, Berkeley

July 14, 2009

BQ-Again, you're dead on! Nailed it. Lots of vitrol from the lugged-steel, red confection-eating, LA hating crowd. What these insiders don't get, apparently, is that the LA machine is good for all cycling in this country, not just Trek. Rising waters raise all boats. Hate the haters.
- Michael, Boulder

July 13, 2009

Contador is either an insanely fit raging beast or a total dumb fuck. Why not just keep riding tempo up the climb rather than giving LA the middle finger with an attack that didn't even net a stage win or a malloit jaune? Clearly, he must believe that he can slay any dragon on any mountain at any time...or he is just a brain-dead moron. Something tells me that he is going to have that infamous "one bad day in the mountains" and then Lance will sweep his ashes off the road. Maybe AG2R is running Campag 10-speed simply because they don't wanna hassle with those 11-speed chains and those $300-a-pop tools. Nah, never mind, couldn't be that. Those pro mechs love crap like that. Giro "Prolight": Just what the world needs-- another $350 brain bucket. Geez, for that kinda coin I could make-- what?-- three, maybe four, decent 1-900 calls.
- PawleeWalnutz, NYC

July 13, 2009

Damn, Cru DD...nice one. Busted.
- Brian, Chicago

July 13, 2009

P.S. Especially the ones who stood up to the doping...Vaughters, Bassons, etc.
- Brian, Chicago

July 13, 2009

Maybe FC has been using his home town coach's fit all these years -- like something out of an old Maynard Hershon column!
- Jay, Needham

July 13, 2009

Chris in Little Rock... Ain't no innuendo. He tested 6 times in 99 for EPO, according to David Walsh. Wake up man. I have. I worshipped the guy. But as I wised up and became a cyclist, growing out of being a wanker and a Fred Armstrong, I began following the SPORT instead of the ATHLETE and I realized that everyone he's beaten has been busted. How can you POSSIBLY explain away his relationship with Michel Ferrari? If you are like the jaded Euros, just say so. It was an even playing field, I'll give you that. I'll give LA that. But that man has no humility, and treated everyone who got in his way like s***.
- Brian, Chicago

July 13, 2009

Brendan, you know I love and respect you, but I think it's interesting that you constantly berate Specialized for their ads and reviews. Why is it offensive when a bike review comes off as a press release only when Specialized is involved? Unfortunately, regurgitated press releases pass for bike reviews these days, regardless of brand. I've read countless reviews of the R3, Soloist, and P3C that were seemingly cut and pasted from the Cervelo website. Concerning television ads, why is it laughable for SBC to run an ad with Cancellara promoting BG Fit, but there is no laughing at Kristin Armstrong claiming that Cervelo "doesn't need to build custom bikes because their bikes fit everyone properly." Seriously? Or how about when Roger Hammond claims he doesn't know how he raced on the cobbles before he had a Cervelo when his best results at Flanders and Roubaix were achieved on other brands? Where's the attack on journalistic integrity and advertising hyperbole when it involves a brand you sell?
- Cru Doggy Dogg, Jonesboro, AR

July 13, 2009

Buying victories... if there were any truth to it, then why even talk about Armstrong? He wouldn't be much of a champion, in that case. I would guess most are smart enough to see all his apologies for what they are, though. Be interesting to see if it works. Maybe Levi and Andreas will ride for Contador,though. Either way, they'd be fools to stay with Astana beyond their current contracts.
- Sam, Manchester

July 13, 2009

Since Lance never tested positive and it would be impossible for him to prove his innosence, I have come to the conclusion that those who use "suspected", "probable" or "uncaught" when telling of their dislike for the Champion simply do not like winners. It's a very common phenomenon among Europeans and Chicago Cubs fans. There is something they love about a losing struggle. Painful, dramatic losing efforts endear them to those who come just short of success. Maybe it's because if your favorite rider or team is good but falls just short of winning, the same goal will exist for another year, thereby giving reason to continue rooting for them. Whereas with a winner like Lance, what's left to prove?
- Matt, St. Joseph

July 13, 2009

I look forward to Assos brand kneepad that you will soon be offering. I expect to see a glowing review discribing their durability and functionality.....how you used them during your weekly Armstrong helmet polishing. Like most Competitive Cyclist products they will be 30% more expensive then the rest of the market. Your 5th grade insults and willingness to completely ignore the legions of clueless groupies who continue to believe the Armstrong myth expose your agenda. When you finally figure out the Trek is just stringing you along and you are not going to get that internet dealership won't you fell just a little foolish?
- Mario, Lucca

July 13, 2009

I'm starting to like LA for a change. Its nice to see him more out of breath than everyone else. I'm really starting to loathe Bruyneel, though. He's the worst slime on the road (though maybe in a team car). He'd sellout anybody just to get a Tour victory with Lance. "We Might As Well Win" -- too cold blooded for that relaxed attitude. He could be be winning with Kloden, Leipheimer, or Contador. But no, for some strange reason that's not enough. Weird.
- Jay, Needham

July 13, 2009

A Zipp Sub 9 Disc not compatible with the P4? That's outrageous. Doesn't Team Cervelo use Zipp wheels? Those guys ought to be ashamed of themselves.
- Nigel, Toronto

July 13, 2009

Isn't that Kate Walsh in the Caddy ads? And, isn't she going through the nastiest divorce case in recent memory (or do I visit TMZ.com too often?). Seems like a risky spokesdriver for GM, but they're busy dealing with other things, I guess. Okay...longshot never-gonna-happen prediction: With no race radios on Tuesday's stage, Lance gathers four Astana teammates and ol' buds from Columbia and Garmin and shreds the peloton, claiming he was simply trying to "reel in the break." With no radios to tell him otherwise, it works and he gains time and maybe yellow.
- Mat, Fairfield, CT

July 13, 2009

BQ, love your articles - keep them coming. Agreed that Bertie didn't do much tactically - but this may be the prologue to the assaults in the Alps. I guess we'll see how it pans out... this fan is rooting for Contador because there's something about team hijacking that doesn't taste right. Interesting history lesson about paying off a peleton... So are you suggesting that the Tour is already over because Lance "deep pockets" Armstrong is putting butter on people's plates? That'd be a crying shame... then again, who's to say all professional racing doesn't involve clandestine transactions...
- Sebastian, Toronto

July 13, 2009

@ Brian from Chicago -- "those of us who just dislike Lance because he's an arrogant doper" -- See, you completely shoot yourself in the foot from the get go. You, like everyone else, doesn't have anything other than innuendo and shaky circumstantial evidence of Armstrong doping. If you had just said that you dislike him because he's arrogant, you'd have been fine. But no, you have to throw in the completely unsubstantiated allegation that he's a doper. Nice...
- Chris, Little Rock

July 13, 2009

I thought the Sports Illustrated article was spot on: Americans with no knowledge of cycling who are just buying into Lance's iconography - they have no idea what's going on in the tour at all. There seems to be a disconnect of your critique of the Versus coverage and your critique of anyone who doesn't want Lance to win. I agree for the most part of your dissection of the various memes behind the latter, but you leave out those of us who just dislike Lance because he's an arrogant doper. Sort of cross-cultural cycling fans - an amalgemation of the American and Euro sides that the SI article describes. So much of the coverage on Vs. is biased towards Lance exactly because of these sycophantic "fans" who actually no nothing of cycling at all. Hence the scores of Postal and Discovery kits we still see drooped into aerobars weaving along the lakefront path (the only place they ride) at 15 mph avoiding little kids, rollerbladers, and volleyballs. We hate Lance because the vast majority of his fans are absolutely clueless about the sport. Like the Cubs.
- Brian, Chicago, IL

July 13, 2009

I was hoping you'd mention the new Giro helmet. When the Giro teams (Astana, Rabobank, Caisse D'Epargne, Garmin) debuted the new helmet on the first mountains day, I thought: "that thing looks real goofy." It sits awkwardly high and indeed looks like an '80s helmet. I suspect they'll do significant redesign before it's released for sale, but who thought it looked good enough to roll out now? It's only slightly better than the helmet the Diquigiovanni team wears: http://cdn.mos.bikeradar.com/images/news/2009/04/22/1240412979420-1o8w7n6zzfsi8-280-75.jpg
- Ralph, Madison, WI

July 13, 2009

If I was a dog I would make love to Lance's calves :)
- Andy, Stockholm, Sweden

July 13, 2009

Can't Cervelo just ask the UCI to rule on the bottle? I have a P4 and I would like to know (before being told at the start line).
- Gary, Winnipeg

July 13, 2009

Give props where props are due: Lance more or less got me into this sport. The disenchantment had been progressing slowly since 2006... when I realized it just wasn't feasible for him to have beaten all these guys who were proved to have doped without having doped himself. My attitude since then has been: those were the times. Half of me was upset for people like Chris Horn who, because they rode clean, couldn't keep up. But most of me knew almost everybody was doing it. All in all: I just don't care much about the past and I still enjoyed the duel between Ulrich and Armstrong. My feeling now though is that Contador is stronger and he shouldn't have to fight for his captain status. Armstong's been out for three years; Contador won his last three grand tours. If LA can play the domestique for Levi in California and the Giro, why can't he do the same for Contador in France? I just don't think he's being a good sport - not that he ever was... I rooted for Lance for years and am not a hater, but to put it frankly, I hope Contador embarrasses Lance on the Ventoux. That, or Andy Schleck takes advantage of the infighting and rides away without anyone from Astana even noticing.
- Chris, Brooklyn

July 13, 2009

adam from hamilton - I hear you and as much as I do not want to compare eras - the verbage around Lance is so high I feel I'm being asked to compare him. You are right that it's a specialist game now and it regretfully is. But how does LA winning the Tour make him one of the greatest riders ever? especially if this is now an era of specialization? I don't know the answer, but sadly I think about the question too much.
- Matthew, Washington DC

July 13, 2009

Matt from Washington, you can't compare eras in cycling. There simply aren't grand tour riders now that also dominate in March and April. Looking at recent Roubaix champions Boonen isn't winning any GCs any time soon, Cancellara may win Tour of Switzerland but has no hope of winning TdF. People (including Lance) seem to think that Devolder can win a Tour, but he has performed at all. Looking at it form the other angle, none of the GC contenders in recent memories are winning classics. O'kay, Schleck won Liege this year - but that's a climbers classic and was the exception rather than the norm. And the world championships used to be contended by GC riders (Olano, Bugno, LeBlanc) but even that has fallen to one day specialists.
- adam, Hamilton

July 13, 2009

I am, almost, looking forward to seeing her drive off in her Cadillac. While it is SO much better than last years Sabb recycles, or born from Jets. The constant repetition is killing the moment.
- Cliff, DeSoto, TX

July 13, 2009

I like Lance but he isn't the greatest bike rider the world has ever produced. He is an amazing specialist. He is not a "grand champion" (like Eddy Merckx or Jacques Anquetil, Fausto Coppi maybe Bernard Hinault) in the sense that he is clearly interested in one race. This doesn't make him a bad man - just a highly focused one. A "grand champion" in that old school way has raced in and won Paris Roubaix among many of the other early one day classics - I was surprised to learn recently that Lance has never even entered Paris-Roubaix. This hardly makes him a bad person but it does help focus what he is interested in and how he approaches it. He has a few unflattering flaws - nothing that really matter but it does little to make him a beloved figurehead. However you are clearly a huge fan and lashing out at his detractors does very little for your arguments. I think both sides need a little perspective - it's a big cycling world - there is enough room for everyone. Be you a Lance lover or hater. Regarding the Cycling press when it comes down to product reviews is laughable on the whole and pathetic in practice. I couldn't agree with your insight more. BTW - I really enjoy your writing here - once a week seems perfect.
- Matthew, Washington DC

July 13, 2009

Hmm, not buying into the Hagiography of his Lanceness axiomatically makes one a 'hater'? Convenient construction - very similar to the "French are out to nail him" trope that shows up in every mainstream article. Thought you'd be a litte more sophisticated than that - the same criteria need to be applied to all riders - sure seems like a lot of people have no problem throwing some can't-pronounce-his-name-doesn't-even-speak-American rider under the bus with the same degree of circumstantial evidence that is instantly discounted when it comes to someone else.... It's not just "with him or for Cancer", you know...
- Roadent, Toronto

July 13, 2009

Regarding the Cadillac ads- anyone else think they're trying a little too hard to be the official car of the Cougar nation?
- Todd, Los Angeles

July 13, 2009

i think AG2R on campy 10 has to do with their FSA cranks...no 11 compatible crank yet. but it does stick out doesn't it.
- mark, dallas

July 13, 2009

good point about Contador & Liberty/Puerto. Thing is (and I remember being disgusted at the time) this is a further indictment of Bruyneel/Astana/Lance and the astana/usps/discovery 'culture'. They jumped all over him and signed him despite the obvious connections that you describe. So, in highlighting the hypocricy of the Lance haters you have a point, but in the larger picture the very recruitment of Contador into the Bruynell & Lance system serves to reinforce criticisms of those with 'serious' (not just Lance hate) concerns.
- Tony, Jackson

July 13, 2009

The links to Velonews were painfull !
- marc, saint bruno

July 13, 2009

best post in awhile. great perspective with Lance. I shouldn't have sold my Discovery Yellow Jersey on eBay that I planned on framing with his race number. I don't care for the new look of the giro either. First time I probably won't buy the newer giro helmet. Happy Cycling!
- Bill, Nor Cal

July 13, 2009

I think there is more to Zinn's story than meets the eye. My mom always said theres always three side to every story. Zinn's an employee, so he's got to do what the boss says, and the boss isn't always about integrity. Also is it bad I have to count on my fingers to answer the captcha question here?
- grayson, emeryville

July 13, 2009

Holy crap, that race number number from Dick is the single best (read interesting) thing I've ever read about the Garm*ns. Enlightening to say the least. Next I want to hear about where each teammate would like to be going, if you know what I mean. Seriously, when is that rig going to implode or explode? // Boulder Report Live Blog is a great read, no doubt. But then look at who is behind it: JL is the shit. // Lance haters are never going away. Nor is the ambiguity branded into LA's giant calves. And the AC-lovefest irony is so RICH. We're talking Astana here. It's an orgy of dark underbellies. I watch Astana through a shit-speckled lens. But I don't hate them, of course. Waste of energy. // LA v AC: Cripes, this drama is going to eclipse a lot of great TdF sub-plots. Shame. // LA and social media: He has addressed The Social the way he addresses every other moving part in his orbit: perfectly. Hat's off. // I know someone tight with Zinn. The single overwhelming takeaway from conversations about him is that LZ has the potential to turn out _definitive_ product reviews.
- matthew, in hog heaven

July 13, 2009

Smooth
- FReaky, 10010