Pyrenees vs. Alps? Here are the differences

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2011-07-17 7:45 PM

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Subject: Pyrenees vs. Alps? Here are the differences
I wanted to find out how the Pyrenees compared to the Alps.

The article below was written by Bobby Julich*. (The first part contrasts the two mountain ranges. At the end, he discusses the 2006 TdF specifically, so you may want to skip that section.)

Pyrenees vs. Alps? Here are the differences
By Bobby Julich
http://sports.espn.go.com/oly/tdf2006/news/story?id=2521990


(*Bobby Julich finished third overall in the 1998 TdF. He is now on the coaching staff at Team Sky.)



Edited by D001 2011-07-17 7:46 PM

2011-07-18 3:14 AM
in reply to: #3600742

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Subject: RE: Pyrenees vs. Alps? Here are the differences

This is tongue in cheek but... he joined the new Team CSC in 2004 where he finished his career and then became sports director until this year...

Anyway... he was one of the super domestiques (and hard men) of the sport in his time... wonder if he was the one that taught Jens?

2011-07-18 8:37 AM
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Subject: RE: Pyrenees vs. Alps? Here are the differences
Interesting read, I liek the two main parts that I see, the temps and the grade will be different.
2011-07-18 10:38 AM
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Subject: RE: Pyrenees vs. Alps? Here are the differences
From Julich's article: "The main difference between the two: gradients. I always like to climb at a greater pace, and the Alps have longer climbs with more gradual gradients. It suits my style! In the Pyrenees, you have to do major accelerations to get over the shorter, steeper climbs. I am sure half the riders in the field prefer the short accelerations, but I think the style of the Alps leads to a better race."
http://sports.espn.go.com/oly/tdf2006/news/story?id=2521990

So which set of mountains favors which riders?

I'd think that the Schlecks and Contador would favor the Pyrenees, since they seem able to make quick attacks. But someone like Evans, who seems to prefer a steadier tempo, might prefer the Alps.

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