Why is it so surprising that as you age, you lose speed and endurance? Both Lance and Robbie McEwen became aware of this the last two years in the tour.

While you can limit the damage, you cannot totally reclaim what you once had. If this were not true, you would see 45 year old riders winning major tours and one day classics.

For some, once they lose their competitive edge, they stop riding.

For others, cycling is more than just finishing in front so they continue riding for the sheer joy of it.