Overview
This episode examines whether Tadej Pogačar’s recent Tour de France climbing performances are plausible, exploring doping speculation, physiological data, and equipment choices. The hosts also analyze time trial bike setups, training impacts of ride interruptions, and review listener-submitted bikes in their recurring "Dog or Fast Bike" segment.
Pogačar’s Tour de France Performance Analysis
- Discussed Pogačar’s 6.98 W/kg for ~40 min at 2024 Tour up Plateau de Beille as the most significant climbing effort ever recorded.
- Compared Pogačar’s output to historic performances, noting proximity to known doping-era numbers.
- Highlighted 2025 mountain TT estimate: 7.48 W/kg for 17:25, paralleling notable Pantani efforts.
- Noted lack of wild W/kg numbers in non-TT 2025 stages so far.
Doping Speculation and Debate
- No positive test or direct evidence against PogaÄŤar; rumors largely social media driven.
- Team manager Mauro Gianetti’s past with doping adds suspicion but no proof.
- Peloton culture and lack of internal whispers are unreliable as exoneration.
- Equipment, training, and nutrition have improved, but current W/kg numbers still raise legitimate physiological questions.
- Luke Plapp’s coach supports open but evidence-based questioning, noting the unprecedented nature of recent power data.
Physiological Plausibility Discussion
- Current W/kg outputs (7.3–7.45 for 20 min) exceed what most experts consider "naturally attainable" but lack definitive proof of illegitimacy.
- Few world riders can approach these numbers; most of peloton’s performances appear clean and within historical norms.
- Hosts call for more transparency in physiological testing and athlete data.
Professional Rider Role Dynamics
- Discussion on Luke Plapp’s approach and performance gap compared to top GC riders like Pogačar.
- Explored career implications for strong pros who can’t match top contenders’ physiological levels, such as pivoting to super-domestique roles.
Tour de France Time Trial Bike Setup Review
- Detailed comparisons of various Tour riders’ TT setups including weight-saving, tire/wheel choices, and frame modifications.
- Observed emphasis on skinsuit technology and helmet aerodynamics as significant gains.
- Noted trend of non-factory wheels and parts (e.g., Chinese components, carbon chainrings, scope wheels).
Training Impact of Multiple Ride Stops
- Addressed listener question on the physiological effects of frequent, long ride breaks.
- Explained that long and repeated stops reduce training effectiveness due to hormone shifts, glycogen replenishment, and loss of cardiovascular/thermal stimulus.
- Continuous rides offer better adaptation for endurance events.
- Suggested using group stop-heavy rides for hard repeated efforts early in the season, but prioritizing continuous rides closer to events.
Dog or Fast Bike Segment Highlights
- Reviewed and rated several listener bikes based on frame design, components, and suitability for modern racing.
- Emphasized the frame as the most critical element for speed, regardless of other upgrades.
- Noted minor weight or aerodynamic differences among top-level components but advised that frame and tire setup remain most impactful.
Decisions
- Continuous rides provide superior training stimulus compared to frequent-stop group rides.
Recommendations / Advice
- Use social group rides with frequent stops for interval training earlier in the season.
- Prioritize uninterrupted long rides for peak-event preparation.
- Maintain a healthy skepticism regarding outlier performances and seek greater data transparency within professional cycling.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- How can pro cycling improve transparency around rider physiology for the benefit of fans and athletes?
- Will additional outlier performances at this year’s Tour prompt further debate or new testing standards?