TDF: a shiny new thread for 2012

[malkin]

How about a new thread for this year?

A race worth watching.
A soap opera waiting to unfold.
Quips (and goofs) from the guys behind the microphones.

[Veronica]

Mythical climbs :rolleyes:

Not exactly a synonym for legendary or epic.

Veronica

[malkin]

"Dave Zabriske is a vegan. He doesn't eat meat at all, or anything else for that matter."

[Crankin]

Exciting finish today.
Glad to say that DH's solution to watching the Tour without cable has worked.

[redrhodie]

"Dave Zabriske is a vegan. He doesn't eat meat at all, or anything else for that matter."

Now that's strict.

[Crankin]

Got a subscription for the Tour from ITunes. We bought an Apple TV device, so we can "project" it from the I Pad to the TV. This was my ultimatum for giving up cable (as well as being to watch HGTV, because I'm addicted to several of their shows).

[pll]

Got a subscription for the Tour from ITunes. We bought an Apple TV device, so we can "project" it from the I Pad to the TV. This was my ultimatum for giving up cable (as well as being to watch HGTV, because I'm addicted to several of their shows).

I am very curious. Is it the NBC app? Does it have a video archive, so you can watch the stage whenever you have time?

Muirenn -- for live coverage, this site is fantastic:
http://www.steephill.tv/tour-de-france/

[AppleTree]

"Dave Zabriske is a vegan. He doesn't eat meat at all, or anything else for that matter."

He eats bumblebees!! That's not vegan. :D

[AppleTree]

He eats bumblebees!! That's not vegan. :D

No that's not right come to think of it. That was Jens. My bad. :o

[azfiddle]

How is the app for Apple products? We bought the package for the computer last year and haven't decided what to do- we're on vacation and traveling now, so we can watch in real time on tv or online with Steephill TV, but once we get home and go back to work, we need a delayed option and aren't sure whether to go with the mobile app or getting the computer package from NBC..

[ZenBiker]

I used the mobile app (NBC TDF All Access) last year and it worked great. you could watch live or on demand. It gives you a menu of all the completed stages to date, and you can choose whichever one you want to watch, whenever you want.

This year I bought the online package so I could watch on my bigger Mac screen and that's working well too. But to be honest, I forgot that could stream from my iPad to Apple TV and see it on an actual TV screen - I should've stuck with the app, it's much cheaper!

[emily_in_nc]

What happened to Phil and Paul and the predictions in the pre-race show this year? Bah humbug NBC! :mad:

Those predictions were my favorite part...watching the recap show now so perhaps they still have them in the early morning, but I doubt it. We're two hours behind EDT in Belize so I will have to watch in the evenings.

[jobob]

We're two hours behind EDT in Belize so I will have to watch in the evenings.

My DVR is working overtime. :cool:

[AppleTree]

I miss Gogo. :(. Who is the new guy?? He is not as good of a commentator.

[Anyabeth]

Do any of you know of a good guide explaining how the whole race works? I admit that I don't understand any of it but would love to be able to follow along more knowledgably.

[jobob]

I miss Gogo. :(. Who is the new guy?? He is not as good of a commentator.

Is Gogo still on Universal Sports?

Who do you mean by "the new guy"? If you're talking about Liam McHugh, he was commentating on the tour on Versus last year, so he's hardly new. I personally think he's pretty good.

Ed to add: Oh, wait, sorry, you're talking about the other guy w Liam & Bobke - Scott. Yeah, he's pretty unremarkable so far, which is why I forgot about him. :o My bad!

Or are you longing for Al Trautwig?? aka The. Worst. Cycling. Commentator. Ever. :D Again, just imho.

That said, I was watching some of the US Olympic Gymnastics trials this weekend, and I have to admit Al didn't put my teeth on edge the way he used to. Either he's gotten better, or maybe I've mellowed ... nah, he must have gotten better. :cool:

[DonnaS]

There's a "TDF for Dummies" book available. It's on Kindle if you use one. Also, the early morning show does have the predictions... which I agree are fun.

Did you see how effortlessly George Hincappie guided Evans to the front of the peloton yesterday? I'll really miss watching GH if he does in fact retire this year.

[lovelygamer]

I enjoyed watching the climb yesterday and the finish.:D It's going to be a good one.

Also, there is a free iphone app that is outstanding. It's called "Sportal Tour 2012".

[Crankin]

I am not 100% sure it's the NBC app. The Apple TV device works with I Pads, Macs, I Phones. We didn't get one for our bigger TV in our family room, just for the kitchen, where we usually hang out, so now we will get another one.
And yes, you can watch it any time. My schedule no longer permits me to watch it live every morning :mad:. We didn't have time to watch the 3 hours of racing yesterday, so we just watched the last half hour, during dinner.

[malkin]

The Phil Paul Bob predictions thing is still going, but I think they don't show it for every broadcast. Before the time trial, they were joking about how Phil has won for several years in a row, and McHugh quipped something like "be careful or USADA will come knocking at your door." He keeps up with the news anyway.

There was another guy named Scott, I think. He looked like a cyclist.

[malkin]

I looked him up: Scott Moninger.

I really do watch the race too. If Sagan had taken a turn at the end, he could have gained a few seconds and probably still gotten the stage win. I think it was a mistake to let Fabu pull him all the way.

[ivorygorgon]

I just love the Tour!! DH and I are talking about going next year for our 25th anniversary.

I have the app for the Iphone, and I agree that it is excellent.

I love listening to Phil and Paul. They are so entertaining!

I was heartbroken at Tony Martin's time trial. He was my pick with Fabian 2nd. :) Still love Fabian though.

[malkin]

And Tony Martin crashed yesterday in stage 1. Looks like he's just having that sort of tour.

[Norse]

Or are you longing for Al Trautwig?? aka The. Worst. Cycling. Commentator. Ever. :D Again, just imho.



Agreed!!! Trautwig made Le Tour almost unwatchable! So glad to listen to Phil and Paul. Phil somehow manages to even make a semi-boring flat stage - with a breakaway group that you know will get caught - sound exciting and worth not fast-forwarding to the sprint finish.

I have been impressed with Peter Sagan and the amazing year he has had so far, but I was not very impressed with his cocky gestures yesterday after Fabian towed him to the line. I can understand/agree with, him not taking a turn and I can also understand letting him have his finish line self-salutes, but I can't see those gestures after someone else has just pulled you to the line. :(

My own prediction for the GC is Wiggins.

[malkin]

Do any of you know of a good guide explaining how the whole race works? I admit that I don't understand any of it but would love to be able to follow along more knowledgably.

First remember that the tour is a mass event with different competitions of different durations, some with a more individual focus and some completely team focussed. This means that not every rider is trying to accomplish the same thing.

Check out the rules:
http://www.letour.fr/le-tour/2012/us/sporting-stakes-rules.html

And the Prizes:
http://www.letour.fr/le-tour/2012/docs/reglement.pdf
The prize section starts about page 19 of that big pdf.

[pll]

Just for fun, I thought these commercials aired during the TDF were good:

Skoda (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcLU8O6-j64)
Specialized (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=1BwnuBVUBsQ)

[ny biker]

First remember that the tour is a mass event with different competitions of different durations, some with a more individual focus and some completely team focussed. This means that not every rider is trying to accomplish the same thing.

Check out the rules:
http://www.letour.fr/le-tour/2012/us/sporting-stakes-rules.html

And the Prizes:
http://www.letour.fr/le-tour/2012/docs/reglement.pdf
The prize section starts about page 19 of that big pdf.

There used to be articles in Bicycling magazine that explained it all to new fans, but I couldn't find anything on their website this year.

Feel free to ask us questions about anything that doesn't make sense!!

[ny biker]

I'd just like to say chapeau to Markov -- three consecutive days in the break to keep his polka dot jersey. Impressive.

And Fabian is working to keep yellow, like the champion he is.

I think I like Scott Moninger. He does have a low-key style, which is more noticeable next to Bob Roll and all his gestures. But he seems to know his stuff, which I appreciate.

[pll]

Here is a tour primer:

http://velovoices.com/peloton-primer/peloton-primer-tour-de-france/

Look at the menu on the top left (screenshot attached) for more sections.

Good videos to watch are the Le Tour Official History 1903-2003 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5AFhJ1w7pw&feature=related) (nearly 2 hours) and an 18 min documentary with 1962 footage, Vive Le Tour (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3EHJjHP6yc&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL0951BD9A2C1AD75A) (part 2 here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B6ZycaBelU&feature=relmfu)) -- I think the latter is neat because it captures different facets of the race.

[AppleTree]

I looked him up: Scott Moninger.

I really do watch the race too. If Sagan had taken a turn at the end, he could have gained a few seconds and probably still gotten the stage win. I think it was a mistake to let Fabu pull him all the way.

Yeah, Moninger... he has a low monotone voice, makes it hard to listen to him. At least Craig Hummer is still around. I know Gogo was on Universal, but he did cover the TdF last year, and I thought really added to the commentary. I was sorry to see he isn't here this year.

What utter chaos on the finish line this morning. Is there going to be any stopping Peter Sagan???? Wow!!

[jobob]

Yeah, Moninger... he has a low monotone voice, makes it hard to listen to him. At least Craig Hummer is still around. I know Gogo was on Universal, but he did cover the TdF last year, and I thought really added to the commentary. I was sorry to see he isn't here this year.

I'm sorry, my bad, I forgot Gogo was doing TdF commentary on Versus last year. I'm going senile. :o


What utter chaos on the finish line this morning. Is there going to be any stopping Peter Sagan???? Wow!!

I agree, he's really something.

An interesting article about Sagan was posted today on my fave cycling blog, The Inner Ring:

The Elusive Peter Sagan (http://inrng.com/2012/07/the-elusive-peter-sagan/)

[AppleTree]

I'm sorry, my bad, I forgot Gogo was doing TdF commentary on Versus last year. I'm going senile. :o



That's okay jobob, you are in good company. :p:p

[AppleTree]

Just for fun, I thought these commercials aired during the TDF were good:

Skoda (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcLU8O6-j64)
Specialized (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=1BwnuBVUBsQ)


I adore that Specialized commercial! That is my favorite so far. Love the Road ID ones too.

[pll]

An interesting article about Sagan was posted today on my fave cycling blog, The Inner Ring:

The Elusive Peter Sagan (http://inrng.com/2012/07/the-elusive-peter-sagan/)

Great article! And crazy descent from the Tour of Swiss in the video linked from it.

[ny biker]

Okay, someone please tell the people at AGR2 that their shorts are too thin in back. We can see everything.

So far the Road ID commercials I've seen have been clearly targeted toward men.

==

Okay I just saw the one with the VW bus. That was okay, though for equal time I think George should have been leaning forward seductively.

[Veronica]

Okay I just saw the one with the VW bus. That was okay, though for equal time I think George should have been leaning forward seductively.

How many Sugar Puffs (or whatever they are) do you think George actually ate?

Veronica

[ny biker]

How many Sugar Puffs (or whatever they are) do you think George actually ate?

Veronica

Since you asked,

RT @RoadID: The making of the "VW Bus" commercial. @GHincapie ate a lot of Crispy Puffs that day. http://bit.ly/N3iBBq

[Crankin]

The bad thing about watching the Tour on the "app" is that you don't see the commercials. DH loves this, but I like the commercials.

[malkin]

Brewer and I have ongoing wagers about whether Moninger will smile (ever).

[malkin]

Okay, someone please tell the people at AGR2 that their shorts are too thin in back. We can see everything.

They already know.


So far the Road ID commercials I've seen have been clearly targeted toward men.

What do you mean? Are any ads on any sports coverage targeted toward women or children?

[skinimini]

I'm not sure I understand why Team Sky is not supporting Cavendish this year. Also, I haven't figured out who I'm pulling for big time. Who does it for you?

[beccaB]

I'm still depressed about Andy Schleck.

[malkin]

I'm not sure I understand why Team Sky is not supporting Cavendish this year.

Because Wiggins is a serious contender for the overall GC the team needs to spend their energy to look after him. Cav probably knew this was a possibility when he joined the team and it doesn't seem to be causing him much difficulty so far.

I'm bummed about Andy too, but with all the TTs in this course...well, you know. Anyway, there are only a few riders that I dislike anyway.

[Eden]

Because Wiggins is a serious contender for the overall GC the team needs to spend their energy to look after him. Cav probably knew this was a possibility when he joined the team and it doesn't seem to be causing him much difficulty so far.

I'd say being caught up in the pile up was a difficulty..... and one that he probably would never have suffered had he been in possession of his lead out train.... to his credit I haven't seen any complaining about it though, at least not yet. It's a risk you take when you are a "free agent" sprinter.

It will be interesting to see how he does this year. It not only takes strength, but wiles too when you don't have the team all around you. Robbie McEwan was a master at it when he was at the top of his game.

[malkin]

I wrote that before watching today's stage.

Although they can still crash with their lead out train.

[malkin]

Wow!

Another day, another sprint crash.

Amazing bike handling skills by Greipel! Tejay shows what a good boy he is by saying 'Hi Mom' on TV, Sagan still doesn't smile on on the podium and Fabu sets a record.

I want to play "In the Hall of the Mountain King" for Morkov!

[ny biker]

Greipel really was great today. Somehow managed to avoid the crash, clipped out in the process, and still managed to motor to the line and win the stage.

[pll]

And Tyler Farrar had a complete meltdown, even though it appears he only had himself to blame for leaning over the Argos guy. Greipel, however, kicked Farrar and in the process of not falling himself, took Sagan down. What a nasty crash.

[ny biker]

And Tyler Farrar had a complete meltdown, even though it appears he only had himself to blame for leaning over the Argos guy. Greipel, however, kicked Farrar and in the process of not falling himself, took Sagan down. What a nasty crash.

It kinda looked like a Lampre rider moved right and squeezed Tyler over into the Argos guy. But it was hard to tell.

[pll]

It kinda looked like a Lampre rider moved right and squeezed Tyler over into the Argos guy. But it was hard to tell.

Farrar was leaning over before the Lampre guy moved left. Below are 3 screenshots - first, Farrar looks like he is leaning. In the second, Argos guy pushes back. In the third, Lampre guy has moved right and touched wheels with Farrar. As a whole, if you compare distances to the sidewalk, the entire group was moving towards the right.

[Norse]

I still think it will be Wiggins for the GC, barring injury or illness and if his team does as good of a job helping/protecting him as BMC is doing for Cadel so far (apparently Wiggins was a little miffed the other day saying he didn't think Sky was working for him like BMC has been for Evans). But I would love to see the dark horse rider from Canada, Ryder Hesjedal, take it. :cool:

[ny biker]

Wiggins and Cavendish both seem to be pretty peeved about the support they're not getting from their team.

Meanwhile Garmin seems to be the bad-luck magnet this year. Ryder lost a lot of time today after a crash, Tommy D is out and numerous other riders have hit the pavement several times so far.

Greipel was impressive again today -- coming so close to the win after two crashes in the stage. And Sagan is just awesome -- I truly hope he makes it over the mountains and hangs on the green jersey. It's a big ask for a 22-year-old in his first grand tour, but I think he has a chance.

[pll]

It was so painful to see all the riders on ground because of the crash.

[AppleTree]

And Tyler Farrar had a complete meltdown, even though it appears he only had himself to blame for leaning over the Argos guy. Greipel, however, kicked Farrar and in the process of not falling himself, took Sagan down. What a nasty crash.

He is not having a good year at all... my heart just went out to him though, watching him cross the finish line yesterday. :( I have a feeling he won't be finishing the tour, especially if he wants to participate in the Olympics later in the month.

[malkin]

Metz massacre.

I hate stages like this.

[Eden]

This year and last year... no patron, no supremely controlling team - lots more risk taking, lots more nervousness, too many crashes...

Peter Sagan really is quite amazing though, isn't he.... only 22 and he might be able to keep that green

[emily_in_nc]

I don't remember a tour with this many crashes. It's really mind-boggling.

[AppleTree]

This year and last year... no patron, no supremely controlling team - lots more risk taking, lots more nervousness, too many crashes...

Peter Sagan really is quite amazing though, isn't he.... only 22 and he might be able to keep that green

So my DH just read a tweet that said Peter Sagan started the race this morning with a BELL on his handlebars. A Cycling News interview shows him explaining it was because the peloton was dangerous, and "also for fun, ringa dinga dinga". I need to find a photo of that one. :p

He is making this years tour more fun to watch. Love it when they don't take themselves so seriously. :rolleyes:

[AppleTree]

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/photos/video-sagan-rings-up-another-win-in-metz/230306

Peter Sagan's bell. A new trend for pro's? ;)

[ny biker]

so my dh just read a tweet that said peter sagan started the race this morning with a bell on his handlebars. A cycling news interview shows him explaining it was because the peloton was dangerous, and "also for fun, ringa dinga dinga". I need to find a photo of that one. :p

he is making this years tour more fun to watch. Love it when they don't take themselves so seriously. :rolleyes:

HULK SMASH

So it turns out that Greipel separated his shoulder in one of the crashes. And still came thisclose to winning the sprint.

[katluvr]

Regarding the crashes....this year it seems the Pelaton does not care about who is caught up in the crashes. They don't slow. They still just chase and try and get their sprinters up there. When I first started watching the tour it seemed like they were more "gentlemenly" about holding up a bit to let the others catch up. They realized how unfortunate it was for those caught up behind a crash. No more nice guy in the tour!

I also have to have to admit I am a Sagan fan and love how he is making it fun for himself (and us watching)!

K

[pll]

I have to say I am in awe of many cyclists, who do an effort to learn additional languages. Can you imagine that in basketball or football? Peter Sagan's English is improving so much and he is fluent in Italian. The celebrations are suggested by his team mates. He obliges and I find that kind of cute.

[pll]

Regarding the crashes....this year it seems the Pelaton does not care about who is caught up in the crashes. They don't slow. They still just chase and try and get their sprinters up there. When I first started watching the tour it seemed like they were more "gentlemenly" about holding up a bit to let the others catch up. They realized how unfortunate it was for those caught up behind a crash. No more nice guy in the tour!

I also have to have to admit I am a Sagan fan and love how he is making it fun for himself (and us watching)!

K

I wonder if race radios and copying of strategies are to blame for these crashes. I was reading the news release from Euskatel Euskadi, following yesterday's stage and one thing jumped at me. One of the riders said that everybody was trying to get to the front as if they were all going to win the Tour. Clearly, if every team is trying to get to the front, there is a physical impossibility!

Another factor that could be at play is the European crisis, in the sense that many sponsorships may be under risk. This might lead many riders to try to place well and impress, just in case their team goes belly up (think Team Geox -- despite winning the Vuelta a España, they lost sponsorship with little notice).

[pll]

HULK SMASH

So it turns out that Greipel separated his shoulder in one of the crashes. And still came thisclose to winning the sprint.

I went looking for the medical report from Lotto Belisol (http://www.lottobelisol.be/nl/medisch-bulletin-na-rit-6-476.htm): "contusion of the right shoulder, a contusion of the right wrist, a cut on the thumb, a contusion of the left shoulder and lacerations to left knee, elbow and shoulder." Suspected dislocation of right shoulder in the first fall -- a site that he has injured before. Definitely impressive. I had thought the agony face at the finish line was more than the sprint effort.

[Crankin]

Re: the language thing.
DH and I look at each other in dismay as the riders answer reporter's questions in 3, 4, 5 languages after each stage. I can't even learn one other language well, and I actually enjoy that type of learning.

[Eden]

Re: the language thing.
DH and I look at each other in dismay as the riders answer reporter's questions in 3, 4, 5 languages after each stage. I can't even learn one other language well, and I actually enjoy that type of learning.

I think it comes from early exposure to several languages... Cancellara, the most notable multi-language interviewee is Swiss - he probably grew up with people speaking German, Swiss German, Italian and French all around him. Other people that I know who speak many languages often learned at least 2 young. It wires your brain to be able to learn more. Makes me wish I'd been taught another when I was wee.

[malkin]

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/photos/video-sagan-rings-up-another-win-in-metz/230306

Peter Sagan's bell. A new trend for pro's? ;)

I am enjoying Sagan more and more!

[pll]

I am enjoying Sagan more and more!

+1. He showed up to today's stage with his bell, again! See here (http://www.grassyknolltv.com/2012/tour-de-france/photos/stage-07/050-RTR34P0R.jpg).

Also, to the theory of same tactics across teams, a quote from Voeckler:


the main thing responsible is this…” Voeckler said, pointing to the radio earpiece dangling out of the collar of his jersey.

“You’ve got the directeurs sportifs from 22 teams saying ‘you have to be up there, you have to be up there,’” Voeckler continued. “Well, if you have 198 riders like that on a road that’s only seven metres wide, then there’s not going to be room for anyone else. Voilà.” (Cycling News (http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/voeckler-blames-radio-earpieces-for-metz-crash))

[redrhodie]

+1. He showed up to today's stage with his bell, again! See here (http://www.grassyknolltv.com/2012/tour-de-france/photos/stage-07/050-RTR34P0R.jpg).

Also, to the theory of same tactics across teams, a quote from Voeckler:


the main thing responsible is this…” Voeckler said, pointing to the radio earpiece dangling out of the collar of his jersey.

“You’ve got the directeurs sportifs from 22 teams saying ‘you have to be up there, you have to be up there,’” Voeckler continued. “Well, if you have 198 riders like that on a road that’s only seven metres wide, then there’s not going to be room for anyone else. Voilà.” (Cycling News (http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/voeckler-blames-radio-earpieces-for-metz-crash))


Now that's ironic. When they raced a stage (I think last year) with no radios, everyone was freaking out about it being too dangerous without them.

[malkin]

Now that's ironic. When they raced a stage (I think last year) with no radios, everyone was freaking out about it being too dangerous without them.

No kidding.
I think there should be 1 or 2 designated radio wearers for each team. Like the prime domestique with proven bike handling skill.

Did NBC stop showing the early live broadcast?
Was it because of the broadcast of Cavendish saying "Oh please! @#$% off!" live on the air?

[pll]

Did NBC stop showing the early live broadcast?
Was it because of the broadcast of Cavendish saying "Oh please! @#$% off!" live on the air?

The early morning broadcast was on regular NBC, not NBC Sports (the former Versus). Here's the link ny_biker posted a few months ago: http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/42453562/ns/sports-cycling/

[lovelygamer]

I'm enjoying catching up on the tour through video and pictures. I can't wait to see how it all shakes out in the end.

I'm biding time until the Olympics start. Now, there's my true sports passion and there are SO many years between them. Ugh.

[ny biker]

I set my DVR to record "new episodes on any channel" for the tour and this morning it recorded from the non-HD version of NBC. Fail!! I love the scenic HD camera shots from the helicopter. Fortunately the DVR thinks the prime time coverage is also a "new episode" so I have that to watch.

Something that occurred to me about these crashes -- they really underscore how incredibly lucky Lance and all the 5-time winners were. Regardless of who did or did not take drugs, just managing to stay upright and uninjured for so many tours is pretty amazing. Same for a guy like Hincapie, or any of the sprinters who have won multiple green jerseys.

[lovelygamer]

Just watched the race live. What a GREAT finish!! I won't mention the winner in case you haven't seen it but his country is so proud, as they should be.:D

Plus, I tried regular NBC and HD NBC. What a crazy difference!!

[Crankin]

What an exciting stage today.
DH and I keep saying we never thought we'd see the day that cycling was on NBC for 2 days in a row.
At least I got to see some of the ads you guys were talking about. I like the Specialized one, but nothing will replace the mojito dance for me. Back the NBC app/Apple TV tomorrow.

[malkin]

Just watched the race live. What a GREAT finish!! I won't mention the winner in case you haven't seen it but his country is so proud, as they should be.:D


Root, root, root for the home team!
And a kid besides!
I love it!

[redrhodie]

His team director was SO excited! I hate to think what would have happened if he lost. That was a great stage!

[lovelygamer]

His team director was SO excited! I hate to think what would have happened if he lost. That was a great stage!

Wasn't that great? When I saw them freaking out in the car, it made me giddy for the whole team. :D I heard that is one of the smallest and poorest teams in his country.

[malkin]

The text of his wikipedia page has been updated, although the picture is still from 2010 where he appears to have been presented with a cheese!

[jobob]

I forgot all about Jens' blog! I'm not a worthy fan. :(

http://bicycling.com/blogs/hardlyserious/

Enjoy!

[Norse]

Unbeknownst to us, our Tivo and cable decided to disconnect themselves in the quiet of the night Friday, so we missed Saturday's stage. Luckily, I had them communicating again in time to record yesterday's stage - what an exciting finish! I was so happy for that FDJ squad.

[redrhodie]

Rest day. They deserve it. I bet they're not doing much more than riding their bikes. Ahhh, rest. :D

The tour has been great, but I really miss Andy, and I miss loving to hate Alberto.

[pll]

Let's hope the rest day is kind to Brice Feillu, the lanterne rouge... the poor guy has being going through some serious suffering (http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/tour-shorts-greipels-swim-shorts-red-lantern-in-quarantine)!

[emily_in_nc]

The tour has been great, but I really miss Andy, and I miss loving to hate Alberto.

I agree. I just don't really care who wins this year, I just want an interesting and close race. It has been fun even though I don't have a clear favorite nor anyone I dislike as much as Alberto.

[Jo-n-NY]

I agree. I just don't really care who wins this year, I just want an interesting and close race. It has been fun even though I don't have a clear favorite nor anyone I dislike as much as Alberto.

+2 on all counts :)

[ShutUpLegs]

I'm super sad about Ryder, I was so rooting for him! :( I hope Tyler can still pull something off in the later sprint stages. Actually, I'm sad for the whole Garmin team for that matter. My husband and I went to the TdF in 2009, and met a lot of the guys on Garmin (Tyler, Dave Z, Danny Pate, Christian VandeVelde). They even passed a poster around for me and all signed it. Christian put his arm around me and took a picture with me too..they just came off as really nice guys. I was giddy for the rest of the day, as my husband just rolled his eyes ;)

[ny biker]

Rest day. They deserve it. I bet they're not doing much more than riding their bikes. Ahhh, rest. :D

Jens is going geocaching and getting a haircut.

BTW Wiggins is not my favorite rider, but I think his comments on doping at the press conference were hilarious.

http://velonews.competitor.com/2012/07/news/bradley-wiggins-has-a-few-choice-words-for-those-who-doubt-racing-can-be-clean_228247

Oddly enough most accounts of it leave off his final word, which started with "c."

[redrhodie]

I'm super sad about Ryder, I was so rooting for him! :( I hope Tyler can still pull something off in the later sprint stages. Actually, I'm sad for the whole Garmin team for that matter. My husband and I went to the TdF in 2009, and met a lot of the guys on Garmin (Tyler, Dave Z, Danny Pate, Christian VandeVelde). They even passed a poster around for me and all signed it. Christian put his arm around me and took a picture with me too..they just came off as really nice guys. I was giddy for the rest of the day, as my husband just rolled his eyes ;)

I'd be giddy the rest of my life!

It is sad for the team, though. Lots of great riders out already. That crash that took out all those guys, so stupid. Jens wrote it was someone taking off their shoe covers at speed.

[Cynedra]

NY Rider,

I could blame Bradley for the choice of a few of his words, but totally agree with his sentiment. (Not sure I really blame him for the language for that matter.) From what I read from TeamSky, the French press had him in a press conference for about half an hour where they kept showing him videos of previous British cyclists who had lost or crashed after a good start and kept expecting him to comment on that. Then, after that silliness, he gets the drug question, after receiving lots of tweets to similar effect, and comments on articles etc. I think I'd be a bit upset too.

[pll]

Jens wrote it was someone taking off their shoe covers at speed.

I heard an interview of Jonathan Vaughters where he said they had heard from Lampre (Garmin and Lampre were staying at the same hotel) that apparently Petacchi handed his shoe covers to Daniele Vigano (the Lampre guy seen laying in the ditch, broken collarbone). Vigano had one hand off the handlebar trying to stuff the shoe covers in his jersey pockets. It was a downhill, mostly tailwind, everyone packed like sardines... all needed was a wobble.

ETA: here is the video clip of the interview (http://www.steephill.tv/players/720/bicyclingbc/?title=Jonathan+Vaughters+on+this+Week%27s+Crashes&dashboard=tour-de-france&id=1724344980001&yr=2012)-- at 1:24 he discusses the stage 6 crash.

[malkin]

It cracks me up how much Wiggins looks like a guy you'd expect to find at a pub or in a British Invasion band in in about 1968.

[jobob]

It cracks me up how much Wiggins looks like a guy you'd expect to find at a pub or in a British Invasion band in in about 1968.


Very mod! :)

[jobob]

You know what ticks me off about the NBC Sports coverage -- apart from the commercial breaks every five minutes or so? :rolleyes:

It's their fixation on the crashes. Every crash must be replayed umpteen times, from every available angle, in slow-mo, closeup, and of course the aftermath and the injuries MUST be documented in all their gory detail. Many times.

I'm watching the tour recap show, and not only is NBC Sports spending a majority of the broadcast on the crashes, they see fit to remind us, lest we forget, of the crashes from last year.

Yeah, I suppose the network wants to make the coverage more interesting to the average american Joe Six-Pack sports fan, and blood & guts sells. Plus they wanna get the message across to viewers that these skinny guys in lycra ain't girly-men. Yeesh.

[Dogmama]

Very mod! :)

Or a British Elvis Presley with the pork chop side burns.

[maryellen]

It cracks me up how much Wiggins looks like a guy you'd expect to find at a pub or in a British Invasion band in in about 1968.

Malkin, you nailed it! Looking at head shots, I definitely wouldn't pick Wiggins out as a pro cyclist.

Amazing time trial performances on Monday by quite a few riders--I had a day off from work so I was able to watch live. Looking forward to today in the high mountains, following via my smart phone's small screen!

[redrhodie]

I don't want to spoil it for anyone who hasn't seen it yet, but today's stage was awesome!

[jobob]

I don't want to spoil it for anyone who hasn't seen it yet, but today's stage was awesome!


You betcha! :cool:

[redrhodie]

You betcha! :cool:

Oh, if I was as excited as I was, I can't imagine how you were! I could almost hear your shouting from here!

[jobob]

Hee hee. :)

I do hope you-know-who is chosen Most Combative Rider for this stage.

Ed to add: Aw boo, he wasn't. Eh, more TeeVee time for the winner. ;)

[bmccasland]

I am in France and haven't seen a televised stage yet. What is wrong with me??

[jobob]

I am in France and haven't seen a televised stage yet. What is wrong with me??

You have better things to do, perhaps? :)

[malkin]

I don't want to spoil it for anyone who hasn't seen it yet, but today's stage was awesome!


Yah, I was worried it might be boring with Wiggins almost 2 minutes ahead of Cadel. I was wrong!

[katluvr]

just watched my dvr of the tour...I remember the 1st time we saw Vockler...Lance was still riding (and winning) and Vockler was in yellow and how he yo-yo'd in the high mountains trying to hang on to yellow. I guess that is why I always enjoy his "yo-yoing" that he does. So I am happy with today's results. I must admit I was also rooting for Jens...but who does NOT love Jens! I think I want to marry him (and I am in a same sex relationship LOL:eek:)

I just don't "love" Wiggins. I didn't/don't love Cadel. But was ok with his win last time (except he cries a lot). Before Cadel I DID NOT like Contador. What is my problem. Is it because I was such a Lance fan? I started cycling and watching the tour during his era/reign.

But I do love/like many others that just are not performing (yet). I have sooooo enjoyed Sagan. I drool over Fabian's quads but I am thinking Sagan is moving up there in that category!

It is only moving into the 2nd week and anything can happen. I really am hoping for a surprise and more excitement!

I hope I don't sound crazy. I admit this post is after a really long and rough day at work followed by a BIG glass of wine. But it was an awesome race and finish today!

K

[ny biker]

Sharks watch Jens Voigt Week.

[Norse]

I was rooting for Jens too - who doesn't? - but loved the expression on Voeckler's face when he crossed the line. ;)

[ny biker]

So Fabian has left the Tour. New baby is imminent.

[jobob]

I was rooting for Jens too - who doesn't? - but loved the expression on Voeckler's face when he crossed the line. ;)

An article was posted on Velonews today which I think does a good job of explaining the broad-based appeal of "Little Tommy" and, of course, Jens. :cool:

Analysis: Voigt and Voeckler lead the populist puncheurs
(http://velonews.competitor.com/2012/07/news/analysis-voigt-and-voeckler-lead-the-populist-puncheurs_229217)


Sharks watch Jens Voigt Week.

LOL, good one!

[jobob]

So Fabian has left the Tour. New baby is imminent.


"I am not only a bike rider, I am also a husband and father with another baby on the way. It is my personal wish to be present when my wife Stefanie gives birth to our second child. That 'trophy' is more important than another Tour stage win or an Olympic medal. I already need to thank my wife for her patience with me during the last month in her pregnancy that has been difficult at times. The least I can do is to assist her in these difficult days," he said.

Awwww. :o

[jobob]

Very pleased with today's finish. The winner's twitter feed should be fun to watch. :cool:

[pll]

Here's a picture from stage 7 -- Sagan, the showman (he supposedly earned his "Terminator" nickname by destroying wheels and bikes...):
http://cdn.mos.bikeradar.com/images/news/2012/07/13/1342200881831-1ewkzsizqj3u3-670-75.jpg
Source: Bike Radar (http://cdn.mos.bikeradar.com/images/news/2012/07/13/1342200881831-1ewkzsizqj3u3-670-75.jpg) [photo by Roberto Bettini]

[malkin]

Stage 14

WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?!!?!

[BikeDutchess]

That was just unbelievable. Cadel is reported to have said that's why he avoids riding in Spain. Nuts!

[ny biker]

Hopefully you can see this, posted by Cadel, even if you're not logged into twitter:

http://lockerz.com/s/225299751

Rolland made no friends today by attacking.



Totally unrelated: Fabian's wife gave birth to daughter #2 on Friday.

[redrhodie]

Kudos to Wiggo for keeping it sane. He's a class act.

[ny biker]

Here's a picture everyone definitely can see, along with more info.

http://velonews.competitor.com/2012/07/news/idiots-spread-tacks-on-mur-de-peguere-causing-dozens-of-flats_229833

There was obviously a TV camera at the summit, so hopefully that will help identify the culprit(s).

And by the way, Sagan is amazing. I hope this is the start of a hugely successful career. He's fun to watch. I think he might be someone who can win the big Spring Classics.

[BikeDutchess]

The commentary to that Velonews article is a hoot:

[jobob]

Rolland made no friends today by attacking.




True. But Inner Ring (http://inrng.com/2012/07/hard-as-nails/) pointed this out today, which makes sense to me. Though I can be gullible. :rolleyes:


Rolland took off on the descent and seemed to want to profit from this moment but he was not aware Evans being in trouble. He told French TV he had not heard about the problems behind and was annoyed to find journalists grilling him at the finish. We should give him the benefit of the doubt for now because remember the team cars were a long way back. The climb was so narrow that the cars were stuck behind the dropped riders – the same reason it took so long to get help to Evans – and so team managers did not know what was happening for some time, yet alone broadcast it over the race radio.

Ed.: Ooops, I was just reading Jens' excellent blog post On Tacks and Tacky Attacks (http://bicycling.com/blogs/hardlyserious/2012/07/15/on-tacks-and-tacky-riders-2/) he posted today (how does he manage that??) and this was his take:


And then there was Pierre Rolland, who attacked while the peloton waited for Cadel Evans and the others who flatted. What can you say? Perhaps he didn’t know what was happening the first time he attacked. But he was caught and riders must have told him what was going on. But what did he do? He attacked again! If you know that guys are crashing and puncturing and you take advantage of it—well, that’s just a lack of class!

Errr, nevermind. :o

[jobob]

Good catch Bikedutchess!

[ShutUpLegs]

Aww, say it aint so! :(

http://velonews.competitor.com/2012/07/news/uci-announces-positive-doping-test-for-frank-schleck-2_230302

[malkin]

Well, he has been training under Bruyneel...

[pll]

Well, he has been training under Bruyneel...

Well, whiffs of something questionable have been floating around Frank since 2008, when he paid 7000 euros to Eufemiano Fuentes, a doctor involved in the Operación Puerto scandal. More in an old BikeRadar article (http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/frank-schleck-admits-fuentes-payment-18842/).

[Penny4]

Are the riders tested randomly?

[ny biker]

Well, whiffs of something questionable have been floating around Frank since 2008, when he paid 7000 euros to Eufemiano Fuentes, a doctor involved in the Operación Puerto scandal. More in an old BikeRadar article (http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/frank-schleck-admits-fuentes-payment-18842/).

Yeah, I'm pretty sure Frank doesn't actually like Bruyneel. And he has spent more time with Riis.

Some drug tests are random and some are not (stage winner, race leader, etc.).

[ny biker]

Okay I must get this off my chest!!

Every year there is a commercial that runs throughout the tour that drives me up a wall. This year, it's that Micholob Ultra commercial. Good lord, does anyone hear "you're debonair" and think, yup, that's me!!!

I think this ad would be an excellent screener for potential mates. Show it on the first date and ask, "Do you see yourself in this commercial?" If the answer is yes, run-don't-walk to the nearest exit.

</rant>

Meanwhile, France remains a beautiful country. Loved the helicopter camera shots of the vultures today. Also love that Phil and Paul are birdwatchers, so we could appreciate what we were seeing.

[jobob]

"I'm ready for my closeup, Mr. DeMille" :D

[jobob]

Meanwhile, France remains a beautiful country. Loved the helicopter camera shots of the vultures today.

Yes!

[e3rdpower]

I agree 100%. I think whatever ad agency thought it would be a good idea should be forced to watch it over and over ad nauseum. And I completely agree that it would be an excellent screening tool.

On the other hand, the Road ID commercials make me giggle.


Okay I must get this off my chest!!

Every year there is a commercial that runs throughout the tour that drives me up a wall. This year, it's that Micholob Ultra commercial. Good lord, does anyone hear "you're debonair" and think, yup, that's me!!!

I think this ad would be an excellent screener for potential mates. Show it on the first date and ask, "Do you see yourself in this commercial?" If the answer is yes, run-don't-walk to the nearest exit.

</rant>

Meanwhile, France remains a beautiful country. Loved the helicopter camera shots of the vultures today. Also love that Phil and Paul are birdwatchers, so we could appreciate what we were seeing.

[malkin]

I'm glad that the ad with the freeze frame of the guy with the exploded tire is finally not running anymore.

[redrhodie]

Since we're on the subject of commercials, has anyone noticed the one with the bike rider, out on a long training ride, he eats a pink snowball (I think that's what it's called), he rides through the rain, he flats? Did you notice when he's changing his flat, in the middle of nowhere, alone, he's using a floor pump? Cracks me up every time. That's my favorite.

[ny biker]

Since we're on the subject of commercials, has anyone noticed the one with the bike rider, out on a long training ride, he eats a pink snowball (I think that's what it's called), he rides through the rain, he flats? Did you notice when he's changing his flat, in the middle of nowhere, alone, he's using a floor pump? Cracks me up every time. That's my favorite.

That's one of the Strava commercials. I'll have to look for that...

[bmccasland]

Watching some of the TdF stages, in France was interesting. Not that I could always keep up, I think my French has gotten worse from the lack of practice.
Home now, so will watch the rest here.

[malkin]

Looking for the floor pump will give me a reason to watch, beyond just watching the scenery now and listening to the delightful patter of Phil & Paul.

I like what Jens wrote in his Bicycling.com blog:

Since Franky is my friend and as I have said this many times over the years, I will stay on his side and be there for him as a friend should do. Friendship is not only for the sunny days in life but even more important when its pouring rain out there. Maybe I am not as objective and neutral here as I should be, but I can’t help it, I have spent eight years with Franky as a teammate and I can’t see him doing something stupid like that. I am well aware that probably not everybody will agree with my thoughts, but that’s what I wanted to say.

[maryellen]

Loved the helicopter camera shots of the vultures today.

Thank you! I just saw a quick shot on the evening coverage and wasn't sure what kind of bird it was.

Ugh now the Michelob Ultra commercial is on.

[ShutUpLegs]

Did anyone see this?!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUWakT8eu7I&feature=share

What a character, Peter Sagan!! Ha :)

[Catrin]

Did anyone see this?!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUWakT8eu7I&feature=share

What a character, Peter Sagan!! Ha :)

hehehe, next year I simply must have cable, at least for July, so I can finally watch the TDF!

[pll]

Next year the thread should allow spoilers. I'm doing my best not to comment on the stage I am watching right now. [need to comment... Argh]

ETA: I do have to comment, though, to say that I find nasty how some cycling Twitter feeds (including @inrgn) refer to Froome as "Froome-dog". So, when there is not really a story, they start insulting and provoking riders to create one?

[jobob]

I'm kind of surprised Tommy V isn't wearing a polkadot helmet today, he tends to go all in on the accessories. :D

Maybe if he keeps that jersey today, he'll pull out all the stops tomorrow.

My 2 cents about spoilers -- I'm watching on DVR delay, but I figure I'm in this thread at my own risk. If I'm spoiled by looking at this particular thread, that's my own fault. If it really mattered to me, I'd simply stay away from this thread.

[ny biker]

Next year the thread should allow spoilers. I'm doing my best not to comment on the stage I am watching right now. [need to comment... Argh]

ETA: I do have to comment, though, to say that I find nasty how some cycling Twitter feeds (including @inrgn) refer to Froome as "Froome-dog". So, when there is not really a story, they start insulting and provoking riders to create one?

I assumed it was just a nickname. They all have nicknames for each other.

[Eden]

Next year the thread should allow spoilers. I'm doing my best not to comment on the stage I am watching right now. [need to comment... Argh]

ETA: I do have to comment, though, to say that I find nasty how some cycling Twitter feeds (including @inrgn) refer to Froome as "Froome-dog". So, when there is not really a story, they start insulting and provoking riders to create one?

Are you sure it is an insult? I know a guy who goes by the nickname Z-dog, it's not an insult, he likes it.....

[pll]

Are you sure it is an insult? I know a guy who goes by the nickname Z-dog, it's not an insult, he likes it.....

It might be his nickname but the references to it (as Wiggins' dog) do not exactly read endearing:
"@inrgn: Today's Wiggins' Froome-dog was a loyal Pyrenees shepherd dog."

[ny biker]

Who is @inrgn?

[pll]

Tweeter feed of the Inner Ring cycling blog (http://inrng.com/), which is a good blog.

ETA: just noticed I swapped some letters... the twitter feed is https://twitter.com/inrng

[jobob]

It might be his nickname but the references to it (as Wiggins' dog) do not exactly read endearing:
"@inrgn: Today's Wiggins' Froome-dog was a loyal Pyrenees shepherd dog."

I don't see that as an insult. Boasson-Hagen is sometimes referred to as BoDog (or BoHog). And I think inring's quip was a pretty apt assessment of today's stage ... I see that as a compliment to Froome's loyalty, actually.

[Veronica]

My 2 cents about spoilers -- I'm watching on DVR delay, but I figure I'm in this thread at my own risk. If I'm spoiled by looking at this particular thread, that's my own fault. If it really mattered to me, I'd simply stay away from this thread.


I never look at this thread until I've watched this race, just in case. Also avoid twitter and google news. :D


I wonder whom Froome will be riding for next year.

Veronica

[jobob]

Ah, looks like Tommy V has the mountains classification pretty much wrapped up, he leads it by 11 points with only a few low category climbs left.

He's going to be awash in polka dots tomorrow. Helmet, socks, maybe shorts, possibly even bike. You read it here first. ;)

[Eden]

I wonder whom Froome will be riding for next year.

Veronica

I wonder whom will be riding for Froome :rolleyes: he's young, but he's held out admirably. Had he been an opponent rather than a teammate of Wiggins, he would be a substantial threat

(btw - I know that is grammatically incorrect, but couldn't resist the silly rhyme :p)

[malkin]

Didn't Froome's girlfriend used "Froome-Dog" to refer to him on twitter?

[jobob]

I wonder whom Froome will be riding for next year.

Veronica

Good question.

Thing is, I don't really see Wiggins as a long-term GC contender; this particular tour played very well to his strengths but if there were more mountains and less TT, or if Wiggins couldn't keep up in the mountains as well as he did, I suspect support would have switched to Froome early on. Wiggins might not have Team Sky's wholehearted (CG) support next year.


I wonder whom will be riding for Froome :rolleyes:

LOL! Precisely.

[Veronica]

Sky put together a really strong climbing team this year - Froome, Rogers, Port, BoHog :p, Knees... all to really support Wiggins.

Next year they may give more support to Cav. It's an interesting dilemma they've got.

Veronica

[Veronica]

Oh and I predict no more Radioshack-Nissan next year. What a disaster that merger has become! It's a shame - they have some really good riders.

Veronica

[jobob]

Wiggins might not have Team Sky's wholehearted (CG) support next year.

Following up on my own remark ...

NBCSports showed a graphic of the two second-place finishers who went on to win the Tour the following year: LeMond who initially supported Hinault, and Ullrich who initially supported Riis.

I wonder, if Froome did stay with Sky, it would be another Lemond-Hinaut situation?

From the Wikipedia entry about Greg LeMond (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_LeMond):


[In 1985, LeMond] was brought across to La Vie Claire to ride in support of team captain Bernard Hinault who had regained his form and was attempting to win his fifth Tour. Hinault led through the early mountain stages, but suffered a crash and came into difficulty. At this point it was clear that LeMond was an elite rider capable of winning the Tour in his own right. However, the managers of his La Vie Claire team ordered the 24-year-old LeMond to ride in support of Hinault. [...] Hinault won the 1985 Tour, with LeMond finishing second, 1:42 behind. LeMond was clearly frustrated by the events, and later revealed that team management and his own coach Paul Koechli had misled him as to how far back Hinault had dropped during the crucial mountain stage. Regardless, he rode as the dutiful lieutenant, and his aid was crucial to enabling Hinault to gain his fifth Tour victory.

The following year in the 1986 Tour, LeMond was made co-leader of the La Vie Claire team alongside Hinault, with Hinault publicly promising to ride in support of LeMond to repay LeMond for the work he had done in 1985. What he did not say was that the help was contingent upon LeMond demonstrating that he was clearly the better rider. [...]

The rest of the story is here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_LeMond).

So maybe it would be best if Froome changes teams if he wants to fulfill his GC ambitions.

[jobob]

Oh and I predict no more Radioshack-Nissan next year. What a disaster that merger has become! It's a shame - they have some really good riders.

Rumors are already flying as to which teams are courting the Schlecks, Cancellara etc. :rolleyes:

[pll]

So, I thought it was peculiar that Spanish riders get upset that someone catches their break away group. Today Valverde gesticulated at Nibali, as the latter joined the lead group after a descent. Nibali must not have been feeling good because he eventually shook hands with Valverde and sat up to wait for the peloton.

In stage 13, Luis León Sánchez was also upset when he was caught and passed by Wiggins leading Boasson Hagen. Since when is the peloton not supposed to catch a break away? Is that really how they want to win a stage?

[Veronica]

Nibali joined the breakaway group very early today. Since he was a GC contender Sky would have been forced to chase down the breakaway and Valverde would not have gotten the win. I think Nibali hadn't really planned to get away, but did because of the fog.


The only chance for some riders to win the stage is in the breakaway, so yeah, they are not happy when they get caught.

Veronica

[pll]

I get being upset. What I do not get is gesticulating and protesting (as Sánchez and Valverde did). It's the first race in which I see that.

[malkin]

Oh and I predict no more Radioshack-Nissan next year. What a disaster that merger has become! It's a shame - they have some really good riders.

RNT is a train wreck.

Curiouser and curiouser:
http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/schlecks-rumoured-to-have-signed-with-astana-for-coming-year

[pll]

RNT is a train wreck.

Curiouser and curiouser:
http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/schlecks-rumoured-to-have-signed-with-astana-for-coming-year

Bizarre.

[jobob]

Way to go, spectator. Take your lovely, very large dog to watch the tour go by and let the dog slip it's leash and take out a bunch of riders. Dumbass.

[jobob]

Ah, looks like Tommy V has the mountains classification pretty much wrapped up, he leads it by 11 points with only a few low category climbs left.

He's going to be awash in polka dots tomorrow. Helmet, socks, maybe shorts, possibly even bike. You read it here first. ;)

Hee hee. Everything but the socks. Guess he needs to save something to add for Sunday's final stage. :cool:

[malkin]

I get being upset. What I do not get is gesticulating and protesting (as Sánchez and Valverde did). It's the first race in which I see that.

I think they were emphatic, anyway it worked. I mean they got their point across.

[jobob]

Boasson-Hagen is sometimes referred to as BoDog ....

Phil and Paul pointed out in the live broadcast today that this is the team's good-natured nickname for him. :cool:

[jobob]

I have one word for today's finish:

Jayyyyy-zus !!!!! :D

[pll]

Way to go, spectator. Take your lovely, very large dog to watch the tour go by and let the dog slip it's leash and take out a bunch of riders. Dumbass.

Yikes. Saw that. And also saw the very angry Philippe Gilbert, who shared his thoughts with the owners of the dog (picture here (http://twitpic.com/a9pqmi)). Really negligent of them not to keep the dog on a leash as the race approached.

[Cynedra]

Way to go, spectator. Take your lovely, very large dog to watch the tour go by and let the dog slip it's leash and take out a bunch of riders. Dumbass.

That dog looked big enough to be a bear. And awesome ending.

[ny biker]

From David Millar on twitter:

"Challenged roomie @dzabriskie to a race-off in the TT tomorrow. Loser has to publicly proclaim inferiority to other in said discipline."

So, that's one more competition to watch...

[malkin]

Love the donkeys in jerseys!

http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&sa=X&biw=1366&bih=696&tbm=isch&prmd=imvns&tbnid=BlaiYjdNzQpfcM:&imgrefurl=http://wiscostorm.tumblr.com/post/27628398177/tour-de-onkey&docid=gSHeoLtzDNzpLM&imgurl=http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m7gs3ktgYo1qz77qjo1_1280.jpg&w=1280&h=897&ei=Re8JUO29I5PVrQHXt6TACg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=198&vpy=160&dur=52&hovh=188&hovw=268&tx=111&ty=111&sig=118095706782105184725&page=1&tbnh=149&tbnw=224&start=0&ndsp=16&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0,i:77

[malkin]

Wow...faster than a speeding bullet; it's a bird; it's a plane...
No, it's a cycling legend!

[emily_in_nc]

Way to go, spectator. Take your lovely, very large dog to watch the tour go by and let the dog slip it's leash and take out a bunch of riders. Dumbass.

When did this happen? Either they didn't show it on the nighttime replay, or it had already happened when we turned on (we missed some of it). I kept waiting for a dog to run out onto the course but never saw one.

[ny biker]

When did this happen? Either they didn't show it on the nighttime replay, or it had already happened when we turned on (we missed some of it). I kept waiting for a dog to run out onto the course but never saw one.

It was early in the race. They showed it during the live coverage but I think it was a helicopter shot -- not clear.

[jobob]

The aftermath was very briefly shown early on in the nighttime broadcast as well. The actual close encounter with canine was never shown in the US broadcasts.

It may impact Phillipe Gilbert's Olympic hopes (http://velonews.competitor.com/2012/07/news/stray-dog-leaves-injured-philippe-gilbert-worried-about-olympic-hopes_230908)

[malkin]

We saw riders on the ground, One ticked off rider going to yell at the dog owner, who had placed a child in front of himself and the dog. The dog was like a big black Newfoundland or something, as big as a bear.

[malkin]

http://www.sbs.com.au/cyclingcentral/news/38118/gilbert-barking-mad-as-dog-causes-tour-spill

Scroll down to a still pic of angry Gilbert restrained by his manager.

[ny biker]

Okay I will say it, I think this tour has been boring.

Usually I have little interest in the sprinters' stages in the first week, but this year that turned out to be the most interesting part, with Sagan and Greipel lighting things up.

Since then, having the #2 guy on the same team as the guy in yellow has taken the excitement out of the mountain stages. Liquigas tried to attack, but when you know the guy in second has no intention of riding as fast as he can, it's just dull. It would have been way better if Froome was on another team.

[aka_kim]

I thoroughly enjoyed this year's tour. The scenery; the daily stage battles; the bright young stars like Sagan, Van Garderen and Pinot; Voeckler in polka dots; Bradley Wiggins proving to be a very worthy winner; Jens Voigt's attacks, David Millar's stage win; Fabian in yellow; ... and on and on. Everything!

[emily_in_nc]

Okay I will say it, I think this tour has been boring.

Usually I have little interest in the sprinters' stages in the first week, but this year that turned out to be the most interesting part, with Sagan and Greipel lighting things up.

Since then, having the #2 guy on the same team as the guy in yellow has taken the excitement out of the mountain stages. Liquigas tried to attack, but when you know the guy in second has no intention of riding as fast as he can, it's just dull. It would have been way better if Froome was on another team.

I have to say that I totally agree with you. The early stages were by far the most exciting this year, which is unusual. The mountains were a bore, except for the scenery, which was gorgeous.

I was happy for Voeckler, but I really didn't have anyone to strongly root for or against this year, which also took some of the fun out of it. There were a lot of riders I didn't know at all since I don't follow pro cycling very closely. It was a lot more interesting when the Schlecks and Contador were battling it out, and before that Lance, Ulrich, and the other "old timers". To me anyway.

[ny biker]

At least we have Jens. He was awesome again today.

[ny biker]

Well this is terrible -- injuries suffered by one of Vaconsoleil's riders in stage six. I hope he's able to recover fully.

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/poels-hopes-to-head-home-from-hospital-soon

[denda]

My husband and I also thought it was a rather boring tour.

[pll]

Well this is terrible -- injuries suffered by one of Vaconsoleil's riders in stage six. I hope he's able to recover fully.

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/poels-hopes-to-head-home-from-hospital-soon

I read that. After the crash, as he was being put into the ambulance at the scene, he got off and remounted his bike, with all those injuries. He abandoned 10km down the road. I just could not believe he did that when I read it. Crazy.

Overall, I have mixed feelings about this tour. I must say, I missed Contador and that I do not miss the Schlecks -- they just complain too much. The sprints were fun to watch. The mountains, not as exciting, but it was fun to see Nibali attacking repeatedly, until a muscle strain in his right calf got the best of him. I was disappointed by Gesink (why did he drop out?) and Van Den Broeck. And it was nice to see the up and coming generation: Sagan, van Garderen, Pinot... Rolland I am not too fond of... stuck to Contador's and Samu Sánchez's wheels in the Alpe d'Huez stage last year, then attacking twice during the tack incident this year.

I am curious now about how the teams will reconfigure for next year. And looking forward to the Vuelta... :cool:

[ny biker]

I should also add -- I'm still bummed at the thought of no more tour on TV every day. ;)

Next race on NBC Sports is August 20, in Colorado. I'm also hoping we'll be able to watch the Olympic races on tv, even if we have to rely on late-night DVRing. Go Chris and the T's!!!

[e3rdpower]

I should also add -- I'm still bummed at the thought of no more tour on TV every day. ;)

Next race on NBC Sports is August 20, in Colorado. I'm also hoping we'll be able to watch the Olympic races on tv, even if we have to rely on late-night DVRing. Go Chris and the T's!!!

Here's the Olympic TV schedule that I found, FWIW.

http://brimages.bikeboardmedia.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2012-Olympic-Cycling-BMX-Mountain-Bike-Schedule.jpg

[Crankin]

It was a little boring, but I like the whole experience of watching it. I do miss some of the "old timers" who no longer ride.
I always experience a feeling of loss when it's over. Summer's half way over.

[Koronin]

But are they going to be shown live or tape delayed and which channel will they be on?

[ny biker]

NBC Sports has this, but I don't see anything about how to see the races:

http://www.nbcolympics.com/cycling/results-schedules/index.html

[lovelygamer]

I enjoyed the tdf this year and cannot wait for the olympics. I have a phone app for each (love phone apps) and follow those for news, videos, stats, etc.

[malkin]

I love the tour.
Boring and brutal.

You can google it; Gesink withdrew after a crash injured his ribs and made it painful to breathe.

[pll]

Found the Gesink note this morning. I thought the following was cute in Cycling News (http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/nibali-i-want-to-win-all-three-grand-tours), a quote of Peter Sagan:


"I didn't really feel the emotion of finishing in Paris, maybe because everybody spoke to me so much about it beforehand," he said. "Ivan [Basso] even told me that on the Champs-Élysées you don't feel pain, but in the finale we were going at 60kph and you need strength in your legs for that."

Basso's "poetic" description that you don't feel pain in the Champs-Élysées... and Sagan expecting that literally!

[jobob]

I thoroughly enjoyed this year's tour. The scenery; the daily stage battles; the bright young stars like Sagan, Van Garderen and Pinot; Voeckler in polka dots; Bradley Wiggins proving to be a very worthy winner; Jens Voigt's attacks, David Millar's stage win; Fabian in yellow; ... and on and on. Everything!

I'm with Kim.

[amnesiac]

Okay I will say it, I think this tour has been boring.

Usually I have little interest in the sprinters' stages in the first week, but this year that turned out to be the most interesting part, with Sagan and Greipel lighting things up.

Since then, having the #2 guy on the same team as the guy in yellow has taken the excitement out of the mountain stages. Liquigas tried to attack, but when you know the guy in second has no intention of riding as fast as he can, it's just dull. It would have been way better if Froome was on another team.

I agree. And I also find TT stages really boring.

[redrhodie]

The ironic thing is it was such a hard tour, you'd think it would have been more exciting to watch. It was just too hard. Too many great competitors out in crashes, and the rest were just spent. And, 3 time trials but no TTT. I love the TTT. I'm sure there's a reason they don't always have them, but I wish they were a requirement.

But congratulations Wiggins! He was superior.

[maryellen]

I love the TTT.

Me too! I don't know what US Postal was doing in terms of performance enhancement but watching them in the team time trial was amazing back then.

That said, TTs are not that thrilling to watch. Those are the days I'm particularly thankful for tv recording options so I can skip most of those stages. But I thought the last hour of Saturday's time trial was pretty exciting.

I'm no anglophile but I was very excited to see Bradley Wiggins win that stage by a good margin and the tour overall.

[malkin]

For TT I'd just rather check the results and be done with it. It is too repetitive for me to watch.

OTOH, I like long flat (boring) stages. I have to be in the right frame of mind for it, but it says lazy summer afternoon like nothing else. Watch a breakaway get out, doze off listening to Phil & Paul, wake up an hour or so later, check the distance, see if the breakaway is still out, notice the sunflowers or lavender fields, decide whether to wake up or not...

[ny biker]

A TT can be exciting if something important like the race lead is on the line, though most of it is still ho-hum.

I love TTTs.

I know just about every long stage will be dull for much of it, and I'm fine with that, especially since Phil and Paul are so good at telling us about the area they're racing through and the various sites along the way. I just prefer some good attacks to liven things up in the mountains.

[tulip]

I was really disappointed with NBC Sports network's coverage. So many ads! And their on-screen ad banners that obstruct the entire bottom half of the screen! Terrible! They also did not have the name of the castle or town, which Versus always had. No speed of racers, either. The had way too many bits of storyline instead of focusing on the race. Seriously terrible compared to Versus and Eurosport. Next year I'll stick with Eurosport however I can get it. Obviously, NBC Sports Network doesn't know much about covering cycling races. Even Paul and Phil were having to mention ad bits at every other sentence.

[jobob]

Oh, the NBC Sports coverage stunk to high heaven. I'd record the telecast on DVR and fast forward thru all the commercials ... I think the fast forward button on my remote has worn out. :rolleyes: The Eurosport coverage was vastly superior but I rarely managed to get up early enough to see much of it.

But hey, no Al Trautwig ... I'm grateful for small favors. :D

[pll]

I so agree with the TTs being boring to watch (maybe the last 5 riders can be watched, but over 50km or more... that's boring, too). The TTTs are fun.

A resounding yes to NBCs coverage being terrible. The last stage, in particular, I made the mistake of tuning to the noon coverage in the regular NBC channel. It was complete nonsense, a 2 hour "teaser" for people that do not follow the tour. And they did not show the sprint or podium! What...?

[malkin]

I was really disappointed with NBC Sports network's coverage...They also did not have the name of the castle or town, which Versus always had....


Agree with all the comments about the coverage (even the ones I didn't quote). I also HATED the spinning maps which were disorienting and left me with hardly any idea where the race was taking place.

Just because a graphic exists does not mean it should be used!

[lovelygamer]

A funny post about social networking for cyclists from TDF's facebook. :D

[Eden]

I was among those who used the NBC sports TDF app - it was great.

$15 =
no commercials - seriously none what so ever, and the commentating continues even during what would be breaks.

live and recorded streaming coverage

start to finish coverage (seriously... they started and ended with some Aussie guy, Matt, but he knew his stuff pretty well, and would switch to Phil and Paul about an hour in or so, but generally started with the rollout!)

Only the French feed graphics - not sure what you meant by the spinning maps- do you mean the fly in at the very beginning? That's part of the French feed, as are the km's to go, and rider positions so NBC doesn't have control over that, but if they added stuff, it didn't show up on the web stream.

[ny biker]

From twitter this morning:

@RoadID 2 flats on my AM ride. Sitting on the side of the road right now. #TubesMan

[tulip]

I was among those who used the NBC sports TDF app - it was great.

$15 =
no commercials - seriously none what so ever, and the commentating continues even during what would be breaks.

live and recorded streaming coverage

start to finish coverage (seriously... they started and ended with some Aussie guy, Matt, but he knew his stuff pretty well, and would switch to Phil and Paul about an hour in or so, but generally started with the rollout!)

Only the French feed graphics - not sure what you meant by the spinning maps- do you mean the fly in at the very beginning? That's part of the French feed, as are the km's to go, and rider positions so NBC doesn't have control over that, but if they added stuff, it didn't show up on the web stream.

Good to know. I was very happy with the app last year. I was on a bike tour for much of the TDF so I didn't watch it until the very last two stages. My phone did not work where I was touring, so there's not much an app would do. But I was riding my bike, so that was better anyways.

Next year, assuming I'm not watching it from some cafe in rural France, I'll get the app again. Thanks for the review.

[Crankin]

We also used the TDF app from NBC sports and then watched it through our Apple TV device on our TV. It was fine; seemed like business as usual. I did actually miss some of the ads, but the 2 days it was on the regular NBC station, I did get to see some of the ads.
I would not have wanted to watch it on an IPad or computer... too small to really appreciate all of the scenery.