In the world of professional cycling, where every second counts and every gram matters, teams are constantly searching for that extra edge. And in the case of Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe, they've turned to a retro technique for the iconic Paris-Roubaix race. What makes this story particularly fascinating is the team's decision to revert to an old-school tubular-era hack, coating the sidewalls of their Specialized Turbo Cotton tyres with liquid urethane. This technique, while seemingly simple, has a rich history in cyclocross racing, where it was used to prevent water ingress and protect delicate cotton casings from rot. But what makes this story even more intriguing is the team's reluctance to confirm the reason behind this hack. Personally, I think this is a clever move, especially considering the rough pavé conditions of Paris-Roubaix. In my opinion, the team is likely using this technique to add a small amount of protection against the rough pavé, and potentially reduce the chances of sealant seeping through the sidewalls. This raises a deeper question: are we witnessing a return to the tubular era, or is it just a temporary hack? One thing that immediately stands out is the fact that this technique is not new. It was used in the past to protect tyres from water and rot, but it seems that teams are now revisiting it for a different purpose. What many people don't realize is that this technique could be a game-changer for the race, especially if it helps the team avoid any issues with sealant. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be a significant development in the world of cycling. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most effective solutions are the ones that have been tried and tested in the past. This technique could be a turning point for the team, and it's an interesting development to watch. From my perspective, it's a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the team, and it's a reminder that in the world of professional cycling, every little bit helps. As for the future, I speculate that we might see more teams adopting similar techniques, especially as the race becomes more competitive. It's a fascinating development, and one that could shape the future of the sport. In conclusion, the Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe team's decision to use a retro technique for Paris-Roubaix is a clever move, and it's an interesting development to watch. It's a reminder that in the world of professional cycling, every little bit helps, and that sometimes, the most effective solutions are the ones that have been tried and tested in the past.
