The ask bobke question for the final stage was about the 89 TDF where lemond won on the final stage time trial.

My thoughts are that having a time trial on the final day makes it more exciting, than having a celebratory procession like we do now.

Why did the tour do away with the final stage TT and why?

I would think last stage drama would make it more exciting.

The last stage drama happens on the Champs Elysee.

Because this rarely happens. 89 and 68 are the only years I recall this kind of thing happening. And in 89 if we had what was typical in recent years with intermediate sprints we would still have had excitement with the possibility of yellow changing hands on those time bonuses.

As it stands now there is excitement EVERY final stage. Compare that to excitement 1ver 15 or 20 years and all the rest the Tour just sort of fading away.

I don't see anything wrong with a "celebratory procession." Le Tour is usually set up so the GC Drama Queens can duke it out until up to 1-2 days before the final, the fans get to cheer, the peloton gets to cut loose & quaff champage. Sounds like fun to me.

I.e. 20 days of actual racing is a full plate, imo.

I figured they abandoned the final stage TT because the last time it was important a French guy (Fignon) lost the tour riding into Paris.

+1 - I actually enjoy watching the last stage where they all socialize, drink champagne and take it easy, at least until Stuart O'Grady assumed his position at the head of the CSC train. I think it is a nice tradition.

That probably was the next to last nail in the coffin. But final stage time trials were declining.

The final nail is the current Champs finish is now a tradition.

I also wouldn't want to see the current system changed. Over the past few years, I've gotten into the habit of doing my normal Sunday 40-50 mile ride that day, while attempting to keep my constant speed (slightly - best I can do) faster than what the riders are doing before they get into Paris. It's a nice goal to shoot for, and I enjoy being able to brag afterwards.

I mean, who wouldn't feel good knowing you're riding faster than a Tour stage?

Try it while drinking champagne.