What is a prologue in cycling?

Asked by: Justin Hoefener

A prologue is kind of a stage but not really. Tour de France prologues are generally between 5 and 9km in length. Historically the Tour has used prologues most years since (arguably) 1967.

What does prologue mean in cycling?

Individual time trials less than 8 kilometers (5 miles) in length, Prologues comprise a few minutes of individual, high-speed pedaling for every cyclist in the field.

What is a race prologue?

Sometimes the opening stage of a stage race is a very short individual time trial called a prologue.

What is the prologue in the Tour de France?

By definition, a Prologue is a short individual time trial used to determine who will wear the leader’s jersey on the first stage of a race. In reality, it’s a ceremonial start to races like the Tour de France that gives specialists a chance to wear (in this case) the yellow jersey.

What is the difference between a time trial and a prologue?

Unlike time trials, which can be anywhere from a 10min to a 90min effort, a prologue rarely lasts longer than nine minutes.

How long is a prologue in cycling?

As a ceremonial pre-race, Prologues provide a quick, exciting Tour start. Individual time trials less than 8 kilometers (5 miles) in length, Prologues comprise a few minutes of individual, high-speed pedaling for every cyclist in the field.

What does TT mean in cycling?

Time Trial

Time Trial (TT) and Triathlon bikes are designed for speed. That’s why they have an aero design, TT bars, aero wheels and a low front end. It’s more important than ever to get the right size TT bike so that you’re in the most aerodynamic riding position. It’s especially important if you’re racing over long distances..

How much time should you ride a bike?

Adults between 18 to 64 years should perform moderate intensity physical activity for two and a half hours every week to stay fit. But if you are cycling, then you must do it for at least 30 to 45 minutes every day for shorter sessions or 2 to 3 times a week for longer sessions of a hour or more.

How fast do time trial cyclists go?

A ten mile time trial can taken anything between 17.20 (over 34 mph) and 40 minutes. A good target for a fit club cyclist is to break 24 minutes on a standard quiet course. This requires an average speed of 25 mph. To win an open event, depending on the course, the most common time is something between 20.00 and 21.00.

Why are TT bikes heavier?

A time trial bike is typically 1-2kg heavier than a road bike. This is because the main focus is making a time trial bike more aerodynamic rather than lightweight. TT frames tend to be heavier because of bigger ‘aerofoils’ and bigger frames. This can put a time trial bike at a disadvantage going up hill.

Are tri bikes really faster?

It’s generally known that triathlon bikes have aerodynamic and geometric advantages that make them faster than road bikes. With all variables remaining equal over the bike leg of a triathlon, the tri bike wins in speed.

Are TT bikes good for climbing?

When cycling uphill you’ll benefit from a lighter road bike, as the geometry allows you a more comfortable and efficient ride. The aerodynamic advantages of a tri bike are negligible when climbing and you may be forced to utilise the quadriceps more, which can hinder your run performance.