Originally Posted by Mellow Johnny
I have to say I am skeptical about many of the speeds being bandied about is this string. I guess I didnt realize that most of the amateurs can roll out of bed and average speeds exceeding the European pro peleton. I guess I have a lot more training to do. I would be curious about how these speeds compare to the one day classics average speed. So, if it is true I guess three things differentiate pros from the rest of us.
1. Distance: The ability to average 27-32 miles per hour over 210+ km.
2. Terrain: The ability to maintain their average speed regardless of changes in vertical.
3. Recovery: The ability to do it day in and day out.
If these are not true I look forward to seeing an increased American presence in next years Tour DAY France, including several members of this forum. Good Luck! You all probably run a 4.3 40 too, but only on a hand timer!
The average pace of this years TDF was 25.88 MPH. If you took out the first hour of each stage when there is a lot of softpedalling going on, it would be more like 28 MPH or more. Thats over mountains for crying out loud!!!