Giro d'Italia - Fit Tech

Anyone else kinda freaked out by how NOT stretched out the riders in the Giro are?

I particularly noticed this on Diquigiovanni/Androni's  (you know: SDA, Gilberto Simoni's team)  Guerciottis:  their knees are up inside and between their elbows.

The main logic behind this is keeping the body in a better position for climbing, which happens often in the Giro, and usually at steeper pitches than you'll see in the Tour.  

Having a more upright position really does help with climbing, as it doesn't constrict the diaphragm quite as much and allows for the ribcage to be a bit more open - thus allowing for easier breathing, which leads to better delivery of oxygen to muscles.  Additionally, sitting up a bit engages fewer muscles, which also helps in utilizing energy stores toward the goal of getting to the top (or finish), rather than toward position on the bike.  Andy Hampsten is a big proponent of having a more upright setup in hilly terrain, and credits this adjustment with helping him become a better climber (and getting him the 1988 Giro victory and his triumph on l'Alpe d'Huez a few years later).

That said, there are still some teams (e.g. Quick Step) who have longer setups.  These are often the teams that are contesting the sprinter's jersey, rather than the all-around/GC teams.

Still, though, most of the Pro Tour riders ride in a lower position than any of us - even those whose position seems upright.  Take a look at the saddle-to-handlebar drop, and it's still severe compared to most non-pro riders and racers.

Quote:

Originally Posted by comprex 

Anyone else kinda freaked out by how NOT stretched out the riders in the Giro are?

 

I particularly noticed this on Diquigiovanni/Androni's  (you know: SDA, Gilberto Simoni's team)  Guerciottis:  their knees are up inside and between their elbows.

I also thought the handlebars were wider than usual. Wider than the cyclist, in many cases.