Cycle sport is an inherent part of the culture in countries such as France and Belgium, much like football is part of our culture in the UK. Road cycling in particular is steeped in European traditions handed down through many generations. It is also true that French is the unofficial language of road cycling and because of this there is some great cycling-specific terminology. Here are some of my favourites...
Peleton - the term used for the main bunch of riders. It comes from the French for 'herd'.
Contre le Montre - the time trial or 'race of truth' where the rider competes solo, against the clock.
Parcours - a french term for the route the race takes each day.
Hors Categorie - or 'beyond classification' a term used to describe the hardest of the mountain passes.
Grimpeur - a climber suited to the high mountains.
Rouleur - a rider suited to the flat lands, usually larger riders.
Casquette - the short peaked, cotton cycling cap worn by riders.
Maillot - jersey, most famously the Maillot Jaune or Yellow jersey worn by the leader of the Tour de France.
and my own personal favourite...
Souplesse - a word without a direct translation into English. It is used to describe the suppleness or fluidity of a riders pedal stroke. It is often talked about with regard to 'fixed wheel' riding. The great champions are often remarked upon as having wonderful 'souplesse'.
Fine souplesse is something most of us mere mortals can only aspire to. I can categorically confirm (particularly after nearly meeting my maker coming down a steep hill in Kings Park last night on my fixed wheel bike) that my souplesse is almost entirely up my arse...
Keep spinning ;-)
Col.
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