Tour De France

We all know about Lance Armstrong, who this summer will attempt to make history by being the first rider ever to win a sixth Tour de France. But what about the peloton and the role it plays in supporting the leader? What about the difference between a stage win and a time trial? What about the Tour's curiously chivalric code of behaviour? What about the caravan? With the popularity of Armstrong and the Tour outstripping our knowledge of bicycle racing, here is The Tour De France, a fully illustrated primer that explains the strategies, ground rules, history, personalities, techniques, and technology behind one of the world's most spectacular and brutal sporting events.