Practical items employed by Tour de France cyclists, worth considering for personal purchase
The Tour de France, the world's most prestigious cycling race, showcases cutting-edge technology and top-of-the-line equipment. However, for non-professional cyclists, replicating this gear can be cost-prohibitive. Here are eight affordable Tour de France-related products that offer a blend of pro pedigree and affordability for everyday cyclists.
1. **Van Rysel RCR-F Helmet** A helmet worn by professional riders, the Van Rysel RCR-F offers high-level performance and great reviews at just about £99.99. For an even more affordable option, the Van Rysel Road 500 helmet retails for £29.99 (non-MIPS) or £49.99 (MIPS), providing excellent value, ventilation, and safety suitable for everyday cyclists.
2. **Cube Litening C:68X Aero Bike** The Cube Litening C:68X Aero Bike is the least expensive team replica bike from the Tour, available for around €7,299 (~$8,500). Featuring high-end Shimano Dura Ace Di2 electronic shifting with power meter, this bike represents entry-range for replication of a pro-level bike.
3. **Shimano Dura Ace Di2 Groupset (Electronic Shifting)** While expensive compared to entry-level groupsets, Shimano's Dura Ace Di2 offers precision shifting popular among pros and increasingly accessible to serious amateurs upgrading their drivetrains.
4. **Newman Streem Wheels with Carbon Spokes** These wheels, often seen on Tour replica bikes, provide a professional-grade upgrade in weight and aerodynamics at more moderate prices, improving performance without a radical price increase.
5. **TPU Tubes (Tire Technology)** Tire and tube innovations used on pro bikes at the Tour can be purchased to enhance ride quality and puncture resistance on non-pro setups, reflecting tech gains from top racing events.
6. **Paint-Stripped Frame Models** Some brands offer non-branded paint-stripped frames similar to what pros use. This reduces cost while delivering the same carbon frame tech seen in the peloton, a cost-saving option for custom builds.
7. **Mammoth Chainrings** Larger chainrings used by pros for specific race conditions are sometimes sold separately, allowing enthusiasts to experiment with gearing setups inspired by Tour riders on a budget.
8. **Saddles Used by Tour Riders (e.g., Saddles around £1,200 range)** High-performance saddles used in the Tour can be pricey, but mid-range alternatives from the same brands or slightly older models provide comfort and support advances developed for pro racing.
While exact pro bikes and gear are very expensive, these tour-inspired product categories offer the best mix of pro pedigree and affordability for non-pro cyclists. The Van Rysel helmets, Cube bikes on the lower end, and select component upgrades like wheels and groupsets represent the most practical options.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the article, including whether they agree or disagree with the choices made, and if there are any other products that were missed. Additionally, readers can watch our YouTube channel for further discussion on these items.
- The Van Rysel RCR-F helmet, priced around £99.99, is a professional-grade option for affordable cyclists, offering high-level performance and safety.
- The Cube Litening C:68X Aero Bike, available for around €7,299 (~$8,500), is a replica of a team bike used in the Tour de France, featuring high-end Shimano Dura Ace Di2 electronic shifting.
- Shimano's Dura Ace Di2 groupset, although expensive, is an affordable upgrade option for serious cyclists seeking precision shifting popular among pro riders.
