New Technology in Wheels, Massive Chainrings, and Surprisingly Slender Tires: Six Innovations from Paris-Roubaix
The 2022 edition of Paris-Roubaix, often referred to as the "Hell of the North," saw several teams embrace cutting-edge technology to tackle the challenging cobblestone terrain.
Adjustable Tyre Pressure Systems
Teams like Visma-Lease a Bike's entire women's team and individual riders such as Stefan Kuńg (Groupama-FDJ) and Wout van Aert of Jumbo-Visma, opted for adjustable tyre pressure systems. These systems, such as the Gravaa system, allow riders to inflate and deflate tyres with a button on their handlebars, providing a critical advantage in adapting to the rough surface.
The ability to optimise tyre pressure for cobbles versus smoother sections is crucial for maintaining speed and control on the demanding course. By balancing rolling resistance and shock absorption, these systems enable cyclists to navigate the punishing course with greater efficiency and precision.
Smart Wheels
In a first for the race, an unknown team used the unreleased 'smart wheels' by Zipp. These wheels provide feedback on tyre pressure, rim health, and road surface, potentially aiding teams in making informed decisions during the race.
Other Innovations
Other innovations included the use of a range of tyre widths, with the narrowest being 26mm and the most common being 32mm. Riders such as Gonzalo Serrano of Movistar and Josh Tarling of Ineos Grenadiers opted for 58-tooth and 62-tooth chainrings, respectively.
Teams also focused on improving comfort, with Intermarché-Wanty using a grippy, padded, and shock absorbent bar tape, and Lotto leaving the thru axle levers on the wheels to facilitate quick wheel changes. Tadej Pogačar even employed small tabs of grippy padding attached under his hoods to prevent his fingers from rubbing on the shifters across the cobbles.
Impact on Performance
These innovations played a significant role in the race, contributing to fewer tire-related problems and improved overall performance. The integration of modern wheel and tire technologies, such as aerodynamic frames, durable tire casings, and possibly adjustable pressure systems, were key in podium-topping performances and reduced mechanical troubles.
Pauline Ferrand-Prevéot, who won the women's Paris-Roubaix on Saturday, and the men's podium finishers, including Wout van Aert and Stefan Kuńg, all benefited from these advancements.
In conclusion, the 2022 Paris-Roubaix once again showcased the importance of technology in cycling, with adjustable tyre pressure systems, smart wheels, and other innovations playing a crucial role in maximising speed, safety, and reliability on one of cycling's most difficult and unpredictable surfaces.
[1] Paris-Roubaix 2022: Wout van Aert wins men's race
[2] Paris-Roubaix 2022: Pauline Ferrand-Prévôt wins women's race
[3] Paris-Roubaix 2022: Adjustable tyre pressure systems and smart wheels
[4] Paris-Roubaix 2022: Tire choices and strategies
- In the 2022 edition of Paris-Roubaix, several teams integrated advanced technology into sports equipment, like the use of adjustable tyre pressure systems by Team Visma-Lease and riders such as Wout van Aert of Jumbo-Visma.
- Unprecedentedly, an unnamed team employed 'smart wheels' by Zipp in the 2022 Paris-Roubaix, aiming to provide real-time feedback on tyre pressure, rim health, and road surface, potentially aiding in crucial race decisions.
