LOOK CYCLE | PEDALLING INNOVATION SINCE 1983 At the forefront of innovation in cycling technology since 1983, LOOK Cycle began manufacturing frames and components for racing bikes in the 1950s. But it was in fact a skiing accident in 1960 that acted as the catalyst for the company’s innovations in pedal technology. LOOK’s founder, Jean Beyl, a mountaineer and skiing nut, broke his leg on the slopes of Alpe d’Huez, a location we shall return to later. Beyl realised his fracture was due to a problem with his ski-shoes, fixed to his runners with laces. Beyl, from his hospital bed, conceived of a plated ski-binding, the ‘anti-fracture’ shoe. In 1963, LOOK developed and patented the N17, its first pivot-binding for skiers. During the 1960s and into the 1970s, the company based in Nevers, located perfectly between the lights of Paris and the peaks of the Haute Savoie, pioneered the use of automatic ski bindings, working with boot manufacturers to improve the performance of amateurs and professionals throughout the Alps and beyond. By the end of the 1970s, however, the company was floundering, its ambitions melting away in a crowded market. But in 1983, French entrepreneur Bernard Tapie stepped in to purchase the company. Using his other businesses and love for cycle sport to leverage and inject new life into the LOOK brand, Tapie enlisted the help of another Bernard; French cycling hero, Bernard Hinault. With Hinault, a big personality and huge force in the peloton, as the captain, Tapie launched a new French super-team, named after his organic food retailer, La Vie Claire. With a bold modernist kit inspired by the art of Piet Mondrian, and LOOK’s state-of-the-art PP65 pedals, they arrived at the 1984 Tour de France with audacious ambitions. During the sprint at the end of stage 14 to Saint-Etienne, Hinault crashed heavily, but after crossing the finish line with a fractured nose, he declared to the press: “Without the PP65, I probably wouldn’t have been able to continue. It’s the most important technological evolution of the last 30 years.” Hinault and La Vie Claire went on to win the Tour that year. They had also, along with innovative team coach, Paul Koechli, set the bar for a modern, more advanced approach to the sport of bike racing. The PP65 quickly became the gold standard in clipless pedal technology. In 1985 young American rider Greg LeMond was signed to La Vie Claire with a then-astronomical $1 million contract. With LeMond’s help, Bernard Hinault and the team won the Tour yet again, with the Frenchman making it five Tour de France victories to equal that of other greats of the sport including Jacques Anquetil and the Belgian ‘Cannibal’, Eddy Merckx. A visibly dominant force in the sport, La Vie Claire’s success brought further funding and exposure to LOOK Cycle technology. With the team’s management pushing the boundaries and searching for further performance gains, a group of LOOK engineers worked in secrecy with a little-known material called carbon-fibre. At the ’86 Tour Grand Depart, La Vie Claire and LOOK revealed the KG 86, the first ever bike frame made using carbon fibres. Entirely built by hand, Kevlar was also used with the carbon tubing, with alloy lugs used to join the tubes. Along with the Japanese-made Shimano Dura Ace components, this was a machine of the future. And the 1986 edition was arguably the greatest Tour of the 20th century. Hinault and LeMond battled it out for supremacy in the Alps, with the American wonder-kid winning a crucial stage on Alpe d’Huez. That moment LeMond, in the same place where the company’s founder fatefully broke his leg, LOOK and the KG 86 became legendary. The first US star winning Europe’s grandest race on the first carbon racing bike gave the team and LOOK a global audience. LOOK continued to innovate with bikes and componentry, with other French stars such as Laurent Jalabert riding to numerous victories using LOOK technology; along with Olympic successes in the velodrome. Fast forward to 2004 and the LOOK KEO pedal system is unveiled; just 95 grams of concentrated carbon technology. Soon half the professional peloton is connected to their machines with the KEO pedals and cleats. The 21st century continues to see LOOK breaking the mould with innovations such as the L96 track bike for the 2012 Olympics, and 2014’s 795 AEROLIGHT, the most aerodynamic road bike ever built. The frame featured an integrated stem and handlebar design, reducing the overall weight of the bike and reducing drag. As LOOK continue to move forward with relentless invention and cutting-edge technology, it’s intriguing to pause and reflect that it all started in the Alps with a skiing accident and exploded into orbit 20 or so years later in the same place but going uphill with the world’s best bike racers. A magical marque of innovation, and style, Café du Cycliste are proud to collaborate with LOOK Cycle in 2023, fusing both brands’ audacious design and creativity. Two special edition bundles combine footwear and pedal technology with a signature twist for both road and gravel riders. Click here to see more. Further Reading A survey of French tour style It's been a while. And in the meantime, nationally we have been more stylish than successful in our own race. At a push, it's better than nothing but what the roots of French Tour style? VIEW MORE Le bidon & the French cyclist A bottle, a bidon, an absolute essential. But like almost everything in life, there's a history behind even this simplest of things. VIEW MORE Le drame du roi Tour de France history or growing up in a cycling family on the Côte d'Azur maybe how you know him. But know him you will. Le Roi René. Monsieur Vietto. VIEW MORE Le Tour; Dans la Chaleur In more recent times we've seen weather protocols finally being introduced to protect riders from snow and freezing cold conditions. But the heat, 'La fournaise', is another matter. VIEW MORE

RIDE OF THE MONTH | JEROME COUSIN AND MONT MACARON It’s officially spring, the clocks have swung forward and the Port of Nice is waking up. Bleary-eyed deckhands scrub and polish the big yachts, and little painted dinghies bob gently. Jérôme Cousin, espresso in hand, is discussing his love for ‘slower’ riding since he stepped out of the pro peloton last year. Three Tours de France and a stage winner of the Paris-Nice 2018, this veteran of the world’s toughest sport has the relaxed demeanour of a retired pirate. It’s fitting that he lives on the Riviera, close to the water. ‘Now I have time to look around more when I ride, discover the views, the people, the wildlife.’ The objective of today’s ride, accompanied by Café du Cycliste creative scouts Hugo and Thomas, is to do a reconnaissance of a route for his new bicycle travel company, Baroudeur. Along with his ex-teammate and fellow Tour de France stalwart, Pierrre Rolland, Jérôme is beginning a new chapter in his career. The two former champions will soon be launching their first tours, offering routes throughout France and beyond, in order to discover the world’s most beautiful cycling terrain. They will begin close to home, inviting riders to enjoy their shared expertise of the Côte d'Azur and the region’s best trails, climbs and places to explore. On the menu for today is a loop into the Niçoise hinterland, 65km with 1600m of elevation on mixed terrain, cresting at Mont Macaron and the ruins of the Col de Châteauneuf-Villevieille. Although the sun is hidden by the clouds (only to be revealed at the end of the course), the weather is mild: no wind, and no rain on the horizon. Everything is ready, everyone is caffeinated. Away we go. The first bump of the day leaving the Port is our old friend (and sometimes foe), Mont Boron. A classic rise for the Café du Cycliste lunch rides, and the view of the city of Nice and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is splendid. We tackle the Parc du Vinaigrier and encounter the first sections of trails, before arriving at the top of the Col des Quatre Chemins, well known to those who’ve competed in or followed the route of Paris-Nice (it is located halfway up the Col d'Eze, where Tadej Pogačar recently stole to victory in the latest edition of the Race to the Sun). A short descent into the valley, then a few flat kilometres, before attacking the main treat of the day, Mont-Macaron. A climb of 8km at an 8% average gradient, with testing straits and a series of switchbacks, all on stony ground, this is no delicacy, it requires a big appetite and energetic legs. We stop halfway up the slope for a few selfies with some cute-looking sheep, and to enjoy the view of the turquoise sea on one side and the Mercantour peaks still dusted with snow on the other. We tread on up to the top for a short descent to the ruins of the Châteauneuf-Villevieille pass, a typical beauty spot for hikers, gravel lovers and photographers. The clouds still blanket us above, and suddenly we hear thunder… No, we’re mistaken, it’s the sound of our collective stomachs rumbling. A sweet sandwich or two (maybe some local macarons) would have been welcome at this juncture, but we will wait to have our lunch on the terrace back in Nice. The true descent of the pass is very fast, and the road in perfect condition, then another five kms on smooth tarmac. If only every climb could be like this. This rising false flat, swallowed at full speed, takes us towards Levens, and the third section of gravel for the day. We have now completed 40 kilometres and we are heading gently back towards Nice, this undulating course alternates between dirt and sand tracks. It’s beautiful. The landscapes are stunning, especially when we know that we are just a few clicks away from the city and its 343,000 inhabitants. What’s more satisfying is that we find ourselves still in the throes of nature, away from the hubbub of the metropolis with its buildings, noise and traffic. A final ascent on a paved section, near the village of Aspremont, allows us to access the last gravel sector of the day. We give everything we have left in the tank on this final bump of two kilometres at 8%, where sand and dirt make progress even more tricky. After this last challenge, we arrive halfway up the slope of Mont Chauve before we begin a long descent back into Nice. We whizz through the beautiful districts of Rimiez and Cimiez and return suddenly to our starting point, the Café du Cycliste in the Port of Nice. Then it’s off to the first restaurant we find for a well-deserved pasta dish. Further Riding Ride of the Month: May May is the season of the markets in Provence, where a cornucopia of open air stalls appear each week in most towns and villages. VIEW MORE Ride of the Month: September A 1300m climb to explore the wild animal reserve of the Monts d’Azur and ride the thrilling descent down the other side, through tunnels cut in the rock. VIEW MORE Ride of The Month: July The Col de Vence is an unforgiving climb, renowned for it's desert-like landscape, beautiful views of the Mediterrean Sea and the absence of an escape from the blazing sun. VIEW MORE Ride of The Month: May Heading for the foothills of Grasse, and its Rose de Mai. Flowers in full bloom and early season climbs combine to produce a beautiful spring ride. VIEW MORE

Bike-Packing Conférence | AXEL CARION | Riding Above and Beyond French bike-explorer Axel Carion wheeled into town last Thursday night to discuss his feats of ultra-distance cycling across the globe. Taking the stage at Café du Cycliste in the Port of Nice, Axel’s stories of adventure also included advice on kit and equipment choices, plus the all-important bike preparation. The long-distance specialist is the founder of the BikingMan ‘ultracycling’ race series, self-supported stage races across the world for extreme-distance addicts. Carion is a long-distance cycling record holder, and with his lust for exploration burning brighter than ever, he explained how he wishes to share this passion with more riders globally. He sees the emergence of gravel riding as the convergence of road and MTB, and how alongside bike-packing’s growth, opened-up infinite possibilities for bike exploration. Alongside discussing the events he organises in far-flung places such as South America and Africa, and how he came to become this bike-packing evangelist, Carion discussed the importance of equipment. He expanded on the essential requirements of light, compact and efficient kit, bivouacs and accessories, sleeping bags and of course dynamo systems to recharge batteries for GPS, trackers and other modern devices that make self-sufficient bike travel possible in the 21st century. Some of his anecdotes of travelling solo during his 30-minute talk left a little to the imagination, hinting at some of the dangers you might encounter cycling solo in remote parts of the map. A full 60 minutes of questions followed, and even the non-cyclists in attendance were captivated by the possibilities of two wheels, some training, and a little will power. They asked about the dangers and difficulties and how to eat and drink if technical hitches leave you stranded. Survival instincts kick in more than you’d expect, apparently. We can safely say the audience came away feeling inspired to explore more. Axel Carion concludes with one of the many positive subjects linked to solo bike adventure – the meeting of many different and generous people along the journey. Thank you to all who attended and to Axel’s time and knowledge. Bonne route! Further Riding No Direction Home : Bike-packing in the Balkans Freediving champion and Caravan athlete Guillaume Néry saddled up with his partner to ride from southern Greece towards their home in Nice. VIEW MORE Giro di Cappuccino : Bike-packing in northern Italy Friends Clara and Melli embarked upon a summer bike-packing vacation into northern Italy. VIEW MORE Liam Yates : West to East Suddenly it’s the middle of 2022 and riding our bikes around Europe is normal again... But, the world being as it is, there’s no time to waste VIEW MORE Bikepacking in the Lone Star State Endless gravel trails, purple posts, rising temperatures and lots and lots of sunscreen. VIEW MORE

FROM PARIS TO NICE (And Back Again) From Paris to Nice, Café du Cycliste is now residing in both cities, places with deep cultural and sporting history. And the idea that the pro peloton marks the beginning of the spring season with Paris-Nice, the Race to the Sun, seems even more poignant. Paris, where we now have a pop-up at the prestigious Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, needs no introduction in its significance to the world of cycling, and as one of Europe’s most influential cities. Nice, of course, location of our headquarters and source of infinite inspiration, has cyclists around the globe weak at the knees (particularly those professionals who have raced for a week through France to get here). For many the Côte d’Azur is French-cycling’s Nirvana; to arrive here, ride here and even live here –whether pro or amateur – is to be welcomed by the gods of the sport. Tadej Pogačar (pronounced ‘po-gah-chur)’, winner of this year’s race is certainly in favour with cycling deities and is quickly achieving a god-like-status. The 24-year-old (yes unbelievable isn’t it) has apparently trained extensively in the Alpes Maritimes, and can you blame him? Winning the overall race emphatically on the Promenade des Anglais, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea after three stage victories during the week-long race, Slovenia’s no.1 still has a way to race in order to emulate Irishman Sean Kelly, who won Paris-Nice seven years in a row. It’s an indication of how much work has been put into the pre-season to ride into Nice with the yellow jersey caressing your torso, and a resounding way to announce yourself to the competition. It’s also very likely to be a taste of what may occur in July as Pogačar contests for GC at France’s grandest cycling stage race. First held in 1933, Paris-Nice celebrated its 90th birthday this year, and we have welcomed the peloton to the Riviera for the final weekend ever since. It’s always a glorious and dramatic sting in the tail after six days of racing, taking on cols such as Braus, Turini, Eze and plenty more iconic climbs the territory has to offer. The connections between Paris and Nice capture any imagination, from painters to musicians, playboys to poets and super-humans like Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, the aforementioned Kelly, Laurent Jalabert (the last Frenchman to win it) and now Pogačar. The transition from the cooler, and perhaps more hostile environment of Paris and the north to the sunnier and more relaxed destination of the Riviera marks the changing of the seasons, and as the traditional first stage race of the year, Paris-Nice is a special event. You could say it’s our race, when we officially welcome the return of road racing to the Côte d’Azur. Nice is the sun-kissed carrot at the end of the proverbial stick. Of course, the Tour de France is the apex of the stage racing calendar, with Paris welcoming the embattled and heroic riders to the Champs Elysees each July. But for the Tour’s 2024 edition next summer, the world’s most famous race will be finishing right here in Nice. A most exciting prospect, with two grandiose stages, the penultimate departing from the Promenade and tackling the mythical Cols de Braus, Turini and Colmiane. And then the final stage – a 35km time trial around our fair city. The team at Café du Cycliste cannot wait for this tantalising spectacle. Just another reason to #LOVENICE. Further Riding Ride of The Month: March 2021 Paris- Nice didn't end as it should this year but the roads not ridden are still there. A local classic that says spring has arrived. VIEW MORE Col d'Èze Between Èze village and the fort runs the Route de la Grande Corniche, the highest of the three corniche roads that lead from Nice towards Monaco and Italy. VIEW MORE Col de Turini The thick forests of the Col de Turini are testament to the unpredictable weather the highest of the coastal climbs near our home town of Nice. VIEW MORE Col de Braus Find the point on Col de Braus where René Vietto, one of cycling’s greatest ever climbers, broke away to win his first professional race. VIEW MORE

The Review 2022 It’s been a big year for Café du Cycliste, inside and out. We’ll leave reporting on the politics and football to others, but we want to take a few moments to celebrate some things we’re proud to have seen and done in this non-stop year of radical design and outside adventures. The 2023 season will undoubtedly reveal more adventures, and see more athletes joining us on the journey. CDC GT : Warriors in Action The idea of showcasing an all-female racing team in competition had been around for a while at Café du Cycliste. And Gravel seemed the ideal playground for conducting the experiment. So we started looking for cool and offbeat riders to deploy into the field of fun and suffering, and further discover was grave is and can be. Battling it out in sublime landscapes, experiencing moments of friendship, elation and despair would be a priority for conquering the podiums. Quite suddenly the Café du Cycliste Gravel Team (the CDC GT) was born. At La Traka in Girona, a cycling hotspot, the team made their debut performance. Annabel Fisher won the 100km race, and Spanish native Lydia Iglesias (winner of the 200km) joined the team. Unbound, USA, the legendary and largest Gravel race in the world saw our women set off on a 200-mile (320 km) battle in dreadful weather. An incredible experience in Kansas, not far from where Danielle, the American of the CDC GT, was born. Then it was on to the Rift in Iceland where Maria was our local racer and also where Lauf our bike sponsor hails from. The race – in the heart of the volcanoes – is grandiose and was a very special experience. The team shone bright, and Annabel won once more despite a fall and two broken ribs shortly after the start. Finally we traveled toItaly, for the qualifying race for the UCI World Championships and also the grand finale of the season. National colours were worn with pride, but it was in the black and white checkered kit where our team truly felt unified, in victory and defeat. What a brilliant first season. #whatisgravel The Caravan : Inspirational Athletes All paths lead to glory with our Caravan project. Collaborating with elite adventurers in a variety of sports, there were many highlights to relive, all of course framed by their love of cycling for training and balance. By sharing experiences with them, we have discovered in them values of simplicity, humility and a passion for nature. Each one took us on a journey: Anton Krupicka invited us on his gravel explorations in Colorado to the highest road in North America, Mount Blue Sky at 4348m; Alba di Silvestro and Michele Boscacci gave us a tour of their farm and cycled up the Stelvio at breakneck speed; Alexia Barrier hosted a Repair Café and we rode with her on the slopes of the Esterel; Guillaume Nery shared with us his remarkable Bikepacking trip in the Balkans (and his ability to hold breath) and Étienne Hubert gave us an extraordinary kayaking experience on a Swiss lake at an altitude of 2000m. Eyewear : A New Vision Summer ’22 saw another product milestone for Café du Cycliste, the launch of a range of sunglasses. The all new vision of active eyewear for on and off-road riding in all conditions, each style use photochromic lenses that react to every type of light. With an aesthetic based on classic, timeless silhouettes, rather than super technical sports designs, the lightweight frames are safe, durable and full of performance details. Take a closer look. Trail Guides : All roads lead to Nice We are a company of many people and many sports, with our feet in the water, heads in the mountains, and our hearts in Nice. From cycling to trail running, Café du Cycliste has the most beautiful routes on the Côte d’Azur in store for you, including the publication of our Best Rides, the reference guide to the most beautiful road and gravel bike outings from Nice. This guide has been so successful that a second edition is already planned for 2023. In 2022 we wanted to go even further by sharing our best trail running routes with lovers and novices of the discipline. Hidden paths to access the most beautiful perched villages on the side of Eze and La Turbie, overlooking a transparent sea crossing secret coves in St Jean Cap Ferrat and on the Cap de Nice. Refreshing itineraries through forests of oaks a few steps from the city in Mont Boron, on the heights of Nice. These online guides will be have new itineraries added in 2023. And we have concocted ‘Balconies d’Azur’ for you, a guide to the most beautiful panoramas of the Côte d’Azur accessible by mountain bike. Ride & Create : Pedalling is good for the brain Cycling frees creative thinking, it's a discovery made by researchers: pedalling has a very special effect on our neurones. This part of our editorial research has allowed us to meet men and women who love cycling, all of them creative in their own way, all of them exceptional. Sandra in Salzburg in Austria and Anne near Vence in France, both painters inspired by the bicycle. Izu in Dubai, Andrea a Imperia in Italy, known and recognised Chefs who total tens of thousands of kilometres on their bikes. Pierre, researcher and academician in Paris, Remi our designer in Nice, Benedict renowned photographer near London. They all have one thing in common: the time spent on their bike is synonymous with inspiration and in many cases allows them to consider unexpected solutions. Their stories and the account of these meetings can be found in La Gazette. And you, what problem did you solve and what did you create on your bike? Responsibility : Power for the Planet This year saw Café du Cycliste become a member of 1% for the Planet, an organisation that promotes sharing a percentage of turnover with groups dedicated to the cause of protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. As a business we now support a handful of organisation including 4MyPlanet, Cyclotrope, and Smart Shelter. We will look to contribute to others in 2023 and beyond. More of our products will be produced using recycled and natural, renewable yarns and materials, and all our delivery packaging is now bio-degradable and recyclable. Of course, the main area of difference for us is and will continue to be the love and respect for nature that outdoor pursuits bring. The journey continues towards a greener, safer planet. FURTHER RIDING Team Spirit Gravel, more so than other cycling disciplines, prides itself on its pioneering spirit. It puts both genders on equal footing. Women compete with men over equal distances, from the same start line. View more 1% for the planet: Cyclotrope Cyclotrope is first and foremost a Bike-School. It teaches children and adults through collaborative workshops to get back in the saddle, educate how to safely ride in traffic and carry out mechanical repairs, in a friendly and fun environment. View more RÉMI CLERMONT Rémi Clermont is creative director of Café du Cycliste. Here he speaks about creativity, and the vital role his own cycling plays in the process. View more NICE RIDING GUIDE There’s a very good reason why the ville of Nice used #nicecyclingparadise to promote the start of the 2020 Tour de France. View more

Smart Shelter Foundation Café du Cycliste continues its work for 1% for the Planet, sharing a percentage of turnover with groups dedicated to the cause of protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. One of these organisations is Smart Shelter Foundation who we discovered while helping to organise the Torino Nice Rally. The sums collected during this epic race – whether they come from sponsors or the generosity of the participants – are donated in full to Smart Shelter Foundation. Smart Shelter Foundation operates in the poorest countries on the planet, covering more than a billion citizens who live in countries exposed to cataclysms and earthquakes, their credo is to ‘promote and improve natural building techniques, collaborate and share knowledge, everyone deserves a safe house.’ Selected projects include work in Sri Lanka where, after the devastating Tsunami in 2004, Smart Shelter Foundation participated in the reconstruction of 170 new houses in the villages of Kurukkalmadam and Mankadu, on the east coast of the country. In india they built a school with compressed earth blocks that were made on the site and provided jobs in the village. Between 2008 to 2014 Smart Shelter Foundation built 20 earthquake resistant schools and a hostel for blind students in Nepal with the capacity to withstand the frequent earthquakes in of the country. All these buildings have survived the 2015 Earthquakes without any significant damage. Pic 01: Post-tsunami houses in Kurukkalmadam, Sri Lanka. More recently CNN cited Smart Shelter for the essential role that the foundation played in the creation of earthquake resistant buildings in Indonesia, guaranteeing the safety of its populations, particularly in the poorest areas. For Smart Shelter Foundation, the existing regulations and manuals for safe constructions with natural materials are insufficient and unsuitable. Their current focus is on developing improved building guidelines and they collaborate with experts around the world to research and develop unique methods to test, improve and supplement existing knowledge of non-technical building techniques. Pic 02: Making compressed earth blocks in Vellallapatty, India. Smart Shelter Foundation works closely with universities around the world, with their researchers and students who collaborate on a wide range of research assignments in architecture, engineering and product design with a focus on natural and local techniques and materials, such as earth, stone and wood, using recycled and upcycled products where they can. The foundation also trains local builders and Pic 03: Earthquake resistant school after Padang earthquake, Indonesia. implements safe building principles, such as cyclone and earthquake resistant construction.‘Solutions must be simple and easy to reproduce in order to create a positive snowball effect and lasting change.’ Say Smart Shelter Foundation. This is something Café du Cycliste love about the organisation, which is why we are committed to supporting them. Pic 04: Current research on improving earthquake resistant schools in Nepal. FURTHER RIDING The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. View More Alexia Barrier We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. View More 1% – a point of difference Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and the Planet certainly wasn’t either. 1% seems like a minor figure, but we’d like to argue just 1% can make a major difference to the outcome, from here to eternity. View More Cyclotrope Based in Nice, Cyclotrope is first and foremost a Bike-School. It teaches children and adults through collaborative workshops to get back in the saddle, educate how to safely ride in traffic and carry out mechanical repairs. View More

Adrien Liechti: Beyond the Mountain Swiss long-distance racer Adrien Liechti seems to be in his absolute element whenever he’s outside on a bike. A whirling phenomenon of endurance and speed, we spent two days with him near Geneva, where he lives in-between racing around the world.                                       Hello, can you introduce yourself please. I'm Adrien Liechti, 37 years, from Switzerland. I worked in Geneva as a Bike Messenger for a few years and now I'm a full-time bike-packer. I've been racing long distance mountain bikes and on the road for about four or five years. It's not a job, it's a passion, I don't earn money doing this, but it takes me a lot of time, so I can say that it's my main activity. What pleasure is there in doing races like the ones you do, where you ride for days on end and get very little sleep? I really enjoy travelling by bike and meeting other people. I like to push my limits always looking to see what's beyond the next mountain. It's about connecting with nature. On these long races, over two or three days, we only ride, eat and sleep. It’s a simple existence; we are truly connected to nature and sleeping outside is part of that (laughs). What is your best racing memory? Probably what happened this year on the Tour Divide when my bike was lost by the airline a week before the race. I asked for help on social networks and dozens of people offered me their help including Manu. He offered to lend me one of his bikes. We struggled throughout the race, he finished second and I third on a bike he loaned me. Fabulous memory. And the hardest race? The Silk Road in Kyrgyzstan. It is not the longest but since we are at altitude far from the cities, far from any civilization, that complicates everything. This is 1800 km of mountain biking and around 40,000m of elevation gain, it took me eight days. It is a solo race without assistance. You don't have the right to get help from the locals. You can go to all places open to the public and in shops, but you are not allowed to knock on the doors of the local residents. These rules are very much respected by those who race. You have to know that most people don't race, they just want to finish which is already an achievement but for the first 10 or 15 it's very respected. We all know each other, we are a small family and we see each other around the world at each event, there is a strong ethical pact between us. How do you prepare for a race like the Silk Rd? The preparation of the route card is very important. I download the map as soon as we have it on several applications. I am looking for shops and their opening hours in general, on the Silk Road in Kyrgyzstan it was more difficult to find. I prepare the menu in its entirety and then I improvise. Either way, it's never going to go as planned. I only book places to stay a few hours before arriving, you can't predict how a race will go, nor project yourself by evaluating an average pace. How long can you ride without sleeping in a race? I have managed to stay awake for 55 to 60 hours. It's possible to do it but I didn't feel good. So, for some time, I prefer to sleep a few hours to be able to ride faster and enjoy the race. On the French Divide, I took a short nap but only went to the hotel after 800 km of racing. I saw a city on the map, I can't remember the name of the city, I booked the hotel two hours before arriving. Once in town, I went to buy food, drink, checked into my hotel, showered, ate and slept for three hours. In this type of racing, it is not on the bike that we make the difference but rather in the management of breaks, fuelling and sleep. What qualities do you need to win a race of 2,200 km like the French Divide? It's being a good mechanic on the bike, being able to eat anything on the course, making decisions in a state of advanced fatigue. And then on the French Divide in particular it's about being a good bike handler because it's quite technical. There were a lot of rocks, descents, technical climbs. If you are not technically good, you do almost everything on foot. For my part, I don't necessarily ride fast but I stop very little. I manage to just keep going, that's my strong point. How many kilometres do you ride per year? How do you train? It depends, I think 25,000 to 30,000 km per year including the races. When I was a bike courier I didn't train because I did 500km a week at work. Now I do intervals but nothing very well calculated, I do full climbs here near Geneva and then it reassures me. I don't really need to do long distances to feel good. Do you think you have specific physiological qualities? I think I have a lot of experience in racing especially. Sleep management is something that is learned and worked on. You train the body and brain to sleep one hour, to two hours… and take turbo naps too. It works a bit like sailors do managing sleep where every second counts. When racing, I stop at the end of the road, I lie down I put on an alarm clock and then usually I wake up 2 minutes before the bell and then I leave. It’s fun to do that! Does each race require a specific bike? My specialty is off-road racing, but every race can be different. You need different tyre sizes, you will often need a suspension, a flat handlebar or a drop handlebar, you will need different bags depending on what you are carrying with you. At the French Divide for example, in the middle of summer, I had almost nothing with me, because it was 35°C. On a race like the Silk Road, my bike weighed 25 kilos because you have to take food, and sleep in minus 15°C, so lots of clothes... What’s next? This year the Rhino Road, riding as a duo with my partner Sophie, we are not allowed to leave each other. You have to communicate and know that when you're tired sometimes we say things that shouldn't be said. It's going to be interesting… FURTHER RIDING The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. View more Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. View more 1% – a point of difference Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and the Planet certainly wasn’t either. 1% seems like a minor figure, but we’d like to argue just 1% can make a major difference to the outcome, from here to eternity. View more 1% for the Planet We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. View more

1% for the planet: Cyclotrope, cycling in all its forms Café du Cycliste devotes 1% of its turnover to supporting organisations committed to preserving the planet. A steady contribution to a cause that has become an absolute necessity in the sportswear industry, Café du Cycliste made a commitment at the start of the year to work alongside homegrown organisations. Our first association was with the sailor and Caravan ambassador Alexia Barrier’s 4 My Planet project, working with schools and young sailing enthusiasts to educate and collect data in order to sustain and hopefully clean up the oceans. And in September 2022, Café du Cycliste is also now supporting Cyclotrope. Based in Nice, Cyclotrope is first and foremost a Bike-School. It teaches children and adults through collaborative workshops to get back in the saddle, educate how to safely ride in traffic and carry out mechanical repairs, in a friendly and fun environment. They carry out amazing work to help democratise the practice of cycling, increase its use and make it a real tool of autonomy and freedom. Cyclotrope also offers learning sessions in the professional environment: promoting cycling in companies because it has its place in daily transport and represents an economic, ecological and easily accessible alternative for the future for the wider public. Opting for a bicycle for your daily professional journeys means escaping traffic jams while reducing the number of cars on the roads and therefore pollution, it's easier parking (eight bicycles o every single car parking space), it ensures regular exercise and boosts mental wellbeing. Cyclotrope is growing a community and each year brings along more people into the cycling universe. The work of Cyclotrope in less privileged neighbourhoods also caught our full attention. At its core cycling is more than a means of transport: it encourages self-improvement, community-building and empowerment to explore and discover the wider world. Guillaume, founder of Cyclotrope, explains how teaching a mother or a child to inflate their tyres themselves is a simple but important tool for self-sufficiency and great personal satisfaction. The deflated wheel is remarkably the most common immobilisation of bicycles. Cyclotrope tackles the problem of mobility at its base thanks to their painstaking work. For any community to thrive, the dissemination of knowledge and basic learning are paramount. The bike is a tool of freedom that allows you to go beyond the borders of a territory, to explore the world. The bicycle breaks down many barriers and benefits the environment. It is a magical machine. Café du Cycliste supports Cyclotrope in the pursuit of its activities with high added social and environmental value. FURTHER RIDING 1% for the Planet - Alexia Barrier. We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. View more The Life Cycle. Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. View more Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. View more 1% – a point of difference Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and the Planet certainly wasn’t either. 1% seems like a minor figure, but we’d like to argue just 1% can make a major difference to the outcome, from here to eternity. View more

Shorts Stories : Marinette Since their inception over five years ago, Marinette haven’t stopped riding. Built to perform day in day out, they are designed to ride and ride. And ride and ride. And then ride some more. Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. Marinette haven’t stopped riding. They’ve been close to home and far, far away. They’ve seen the world and more than lived to tell the tale. These shorts have found back-roads and byways, lost tracks and ridgeways. They’ve been raced across multiple maps and disappeared into the distance. Marinette haven’t stopped riding. They’ve explored some of the most beautiful villages in France in the heat of the summer and climbed the Giant of Provence far too many times to mention. (Why do they always want more?) They’ve conquered cols, traversed the territories of Texas and gone searching for the best croissant(s) in London. They’ve punched out one hour when that was all that that was permitted, been pushed inside, outside and unfortunately upside down. And they’ve even been shown on the silver screen at Cannes film festival in an award-winning feature. MARINETTE TWO With version two, then, comes a whole new chapter (or ten). Not just from best to even better, with a premium chamois and new integrated gripper design. But from a quiet determination to make more from even less. Less water in the process due to reuse, less greenhouse gas emission due to prior treatment. More comfort, more performance, more durability. More planet. Constructed using a mix of recycled and recyclable fabrics and unique enhanced biodegradation yarns, the new Marinette were conceived to ensure that maximum impact is made out on the road. Built to perform day in day out, they are designed to ride and ride. And ride and ride. And then ride some more. Marinette won’t stop riding. Further Riding Shorts Stories : Renée You know which country you are in if you know on which side of the ridge you are. Discovering a forgotten frontier in the Pyrénées with no little historical significance. No Gas Full Gas Sometimes it is all about fast. Clock ticking, legs screaming, heart pumping, tank emptying fast. Against a pack jostling for position or in search of a personal best. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE

Nice Trail Running Guide NICE TRAIL RUNNING GUIDE Some say you never really leave Nice once you’ve visited, because you’ll almost certainly want to keep coming back. Of course there are cafés, restaurants, art galleries and museums to consume like every other city, but there’s so much more to enjoy beyond the immediate limits of the metropolis if you’re feeling adventurous. For the visiting cyclist and/or runner, you can take any number of routes just a few miles beyond the port, and find yourself on terrific terrain with stunning scenery that will make you want to stay forever. CAFÉ DU CYCLISTE is based in Nice and our products are inspired by our every day adventures between the ocean and the mountains of the Riviera. TRAIL ROUTES What leads up the garden path… trail running is to the road runner what gravel riding is to the road cyclist. More exploration, more unbeaten paths, more fun for your money. ÈZE SEASIDE TO NICE A classic route between beautiful Riviera villas to the village of rock of Eze via Nietzsche Road and back into Nice. VIEW MORE SAINT JEAN CAP FERRAT A relatively easy route that winds its way to Paloma Beach for impeccable views and a finish by the sea. VIEW MORE THE DOG'S HEAD Somewhat technical trail with an incredible view of Monaco at its peak and finishing at La Mala beach. VIEW MORE MOUNT BORON Beginning at Café du Cycliste, this is the most accessible route if you’re short of time and need to leave your gear somewhere. VIEW MORE GRAVEL ROUTES And if you prefer to take the velocipede… these routes also allow for some of the best gravel riding on the continent. The Alpes Maritimes is crawling with off road adventures. We can point you in the right direction but the journey will be all yours. MONT FÉRION The gravel equivalent of Mont Ventoux. With three sides to climb and a chapel. VIEW THE RIDE FORT DE LA REVÈRE From the perched village of La Turbie and along the most spectacular stretch of chemin VIEW THE RIDE COL DE BRAUS One of the most iconic climbs anywhere in cycling but with a dark side. VIEW THE RIDE Nice Riding Guide The Alpes Maritime offers up some of the very best riding in world. From famous climbs to unknown tracks and everything in-between. For any type of cyclist, our home town really is a case of #nicecyclingparadise. VIEW THE GUIDE HERE. Nice Gravel Guide Deep within the Arrière-Pays Niçois lies a web of broken roads and hidden tracks. Discover the roads less ridden of the Alpes-Maritimes and plot your next adventure. VIEW THE GUIDE HERE. 1 - THE CAFÉ Located on the Old Port, our café is the perfect pre and post-ride meeting place. With some routes that begin almost outside, excellent coffee and a full range of our clothing collections for men and women. There are weekly rides as well if you’d like to discover riding on the Cote D’Azur with like minded companions. You can find us at: 16 Quai des Docks 06300 Nice 2 - RENT AND RIDE Travel light and book your bike. We offer a range of rental bikes, the R5 Cervelo road bike and the Aspero Cervelo gravel bike along with titanium road bikes from French marque Leon. Each bike is complete with pedals, tool bag and rear light while, if needed, each rental can also include Specialized shoes and helmet. VIEW MORE 3 - THE RIDE OF THE MONTH Each month we choose a ride that particularly beautiful, tough or rewarding (or all three) during a particular month of the year. August. Sharing two almost secret climbs that take you up past the tree lines to provide a window on to the wild high peaks of the Mercantour National Park. VIEW MORE PRACTICAL how to arrive With direct flights from around 30 European countries as well as further afield, Nice is well connected by air. The tram line now goes direct to the old Port, where our café is situated. For more information on flights, see the Aeroport de Nice website. Nice has two train stations. From Paris the journey is around six hours and brings you into the heart of the city. For more information on trains, see the SNCF website. where to stay Despite the exceptional riding on its doorstep , Nice is the fifth biggest city in France. Given its attractions, there are numerous place to stay while you’re here, from hotels through to guest houses and, of course, private appartment rentals. For more information on where to stay, see the Nice Tourist board website.

1% – a point of difference All great achievements come from small beginnings: Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and the Planet certainly wasn’t either. 1% seems like a minor figure, a fleck of dust in the largeness of space and time, but we’d like to argue just 1% can make a major difference to the outcome, from here to eternity. Allow us to explain, to a point. –– 1% of the world’s population is roughly 78 million (1% of 7.8 billion); this should be self-explanatory – 1% can make a big difference. FYI, 78 million is the populations of France and Tunisia combined… Imagine if all those people stopped using air travel and cars and used bicycles and trains instead. It would surely make more than a 1% difference on the environment… wouldn’t it? When an ice cube reaches 0ºC (32ºF) it melts, alas 1 degree can be the difference between a solid state and falling apart – needless to say, we can relate this to the polar caps and the dangerously rising sea levels… Just 1º can make a huge difference to the state of your beverage, and the climate… –– If a monkey can eat a doughnut whilst roller skating, without assistance, anything really is possible. Speaking of monkeys, or primates to be more scientific, the 1% difference between humans and our closest mammal relations suggests there’s a minor difference between living in the jungle or being able to charter a flight beyond the earth’s atmosphere. The British got rather good at cycling in the 2000s after being terrible for much of the 20th century, and that’s down to small 1% improvements. Dave Brailsford, the mastermind of British Cycling’s rising star, called it ‘marginal gains.’ ‘The whole principle came from the idea that if you broke down everything you could think of that goes into riding a bike, and then improve it by 1 per‐ cent, you will get a significant increase when you put them all together.’ Those 1 per cent increases across the board have led to great successes, such as five Tour de France victories and countless Olympic medals. 1% ABV. The difference between a 12% ABV bottle of wine and a 13% bottle might mean the difference between getting up in the morning or staying in bed and calling in sick. Another glass? –– If your dreaded interest rates or inflation goes up by 1% you’ll know about it. Same with those awful things called examinations; 1% off that distinction or pass? Could be life changing… exams really are awful aren’t they. 1% of eight minutes is almost 5 seconds: When you cook pasta just a few moments over, it’s the difference between al dente and soggy spaghetti, and in some parts of Italy the difference between life and death. –– Jay-Z rapped about having 99 problems, with the elusive 1 not related to any so-called bitch. Imagine how little time he’d have to write misogynistic raps if he’d had that extra 1%. Oh well. If a pilot flying from Paris to Gibraltar airport shifted the flightpath south by 1%, the aeroplane would land in the Mediterranean Sea… –– If you’ve read this far, you’re in the 1% of people who read to the end of articles. 1% of 590 words is 5.9… so let’s round that figure up to 6 with another short fact: If we all got 1% better every day for a year, we’d be 37% better by the end of that year. No matter how you see things, that’s a big jump. With that in mind, keep making those tiny improvements and do what you can to make the difference. –– Café du Cycliste is a member of 1% for the Planet, helping to tackle environmental issues. 1% for the Planet We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE

Take me to the River #8: In the Creeks of the Esterel Riding for a long time in the South of France in the summertime often requires cooling down the engine, especially if you choose to traverse the side of a big ancient rock formation. Crossing the Maritime Alps to reach the Var – from Nice to Saint Raphaël – is one of those outings that can be stifling on the mountainside, when the red rocks of the Esterel cornice radiate all the heat stored up during the night. But if you plan ahead and slip a swimsuit into the back pocket of the jersey, your experience can be one of beautiful balance. It determines the choice of a jersey with big pockets of course, which is Mona on this occasion. The first kilometres alongside the beaches of the Alpes Maritimes offer the usual service, a necessary road to take in order to go up into the mountain valleys. Today it is a question of staying on the flat, following the sea, and leaving in the morning as early as possible. Tourists with umbrellas and inflatables under their arms, the scent of sunscreen and donuts from the food-trucks. There’s no doubt summer has arrived on the Côte d'Azur. Past Théoule-sur-Mer the atmosphere changes, the orange rocks have appeared, the stifling heat too. On the slopes of the Pic de l'Ours, the temperature flirts with 35°C, the Lac des Ecureuils in the heart of the massif has been dry for many weeks. It is almost surprising given the scorching heat and the regular blowing of the wind that the roads are still open to cyclists and walkers. The sound of the cicadas becomes deafening as well, as if they too are feeling the heat. The freshness of the air which glides over the skin when the descent begins is a real relief. And now it's time to find a secluded cove to discreetly switch into the aforementioned swimsuit and jump into the water. A simple luxury that you can afford in a few minutes, why deprive yourself of it? Here the water is more crystalline than anywhere else on the Côte d'Azur, due to the clear rocks that line the bottom. Do a few breaststrokes and then let yourself float on your back while gazing at the pure blue sky. Then a quick lie down on this submerged slab to enjoy the freshness for a few more moments. It’s the end of the break. Almost 60 kilometres remain to be covered to reach the port of Nice. The next stop, in Mandelieu-la Napoule, will consist of eating Pan Bagnat, the most famous Niçoise sandwich. Arriving in Nice again, the urge to take out the bathing suit will briefly cross your mind, but here the beaches are crowded with people, with no hidden coves. The suit remains rolled up, still wet, in the back pocket of the Mona, and you will go your way. Further Riding Les Gorges Du Loup When the heat gets too much, escape to l’arrière-pays for some fresh water wild swimming. Introducing a new series of riding to rivers, starting with Les Gorges du Loup. VIEW MORE Ruisseau de Redebraus We reveal yet another secret of the Col de Braus. Discover wild swimming paradise just a few hundred metres below some of the most perfect switchbacks in the Alpes-Maritimes. VIEW MORE Rochetta Nervina Across the border, up the valley and through the olive groves. The latest ‘Take Me To The River’ takes us into Italy for a dip and a doppio. VIEW MORE Gordolasque High summer means high heat means the search for high roads and high mountain river swimming. Go to Gordolasque. VIEW MORE Col St Roch Halfway up Col St Roch lies a hidden treasure known only to a few. The perfect place to take a minute and unwind. VIEW MORE

Another Tour - Morzine, July '22. The Tour is life. From the northern cobblestones to the Alps, the Pyrénées to the Champs Élysées. Every dog has its day. The highs and lows, the mountains and the valleys, on and on they race. Punctures, flares, agony and ecstasy. The devil and the deep blue sky. Every year they try, the raging peloton, slogging it out again and again. Friends and foes, solo escapes, chasing teams, searing heat. Here today, gone in a flash. The Tour won’t last forever, will it? Enjoy it while you can.

Le Tour du Vin Every July, millions tune in to see the grandest cycling event in the world. But it’s not just the bike tournament itself that enchants us: the architecture, sunflowers, mountains and TV helicopters, all of it makes for the summer’s best sporting show. And alongside the Tour, which one thing is synonymous with France? Wine, of course. From the vineyards of Alsace to the caves of Bordeaux, from Asterix’s barrel to Gérard Depardieu’s cellar, wine is the cultural blood of the country, with its history reaching back to the Roman Empire (santé, Caesar!). And wine isn’t simply about quenching your thirst and getting merry, it’s about the land – the terroir. Each region has its own distinctive soil, climate and, of course, grape varieties. Once those grapes become wine, it can be the ultimate expression of the land from which it’s grown. The main wine regions are traditionally listed as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhône, Alsace, Champagne, Loire, Languedoc and Provence. And using the Grand Boucle as a virtual wine tour is the perfect way to discover each. This year’s route takes a clockwise ‘loop’, heading from Calais down to the Alps, and then southwest to cross the Pyrenees, and finally back up to Paris. So, rather than give you a rundown of each stage of the race, here instead is a general classification of grand crus and world champion vintages that come from the fertile soils of France. Stages 1 – 4 : Start with water and bread The Grand Départ of this year’s edition takes place in bike-centric Denmark. So, with the upmost respect to our Nordic friends, we’ll skip those and use these first three stages as a palate cleanser. After a rest/transfer day the peloton arrives in France proper for a sprinter’s stage between Calais and Dunkerque. Not known for wine, apart from the duty free. Stages 5 and 6 : Champagne A mini-spring-classics is on the cards in the French northeast, with cobbled sectors and a detour into the Ardennes. This is undoubtedly where the race will really begin to fizz. So, as we’re not a million miles away, let’s begin our wine odyssey with the finest (most expensive) bubbles known to humanity. Champagne vintages are commonly made blending Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, but the more elegant ‘blanc de blancs’ are 100% Chardonnay. Vinification involves a secondary fermentation (adding more yeast and sugar to produce carbon dioxide) to create those celebratory bubbles. There’s a lot to discover here beyond the big dogs like Krug, Cristal and Dom Pérignon, and single estate wines such as Billecart Salmon are highly regarded. Other more affordable makers, such as G. Tribaut, and family-run Piot Sévillano, are just a cork-pop away. Or, perhaps, you’ll seek out Castelnau’s cuvée Véloce, the Tour’s official VIP Champagne (apparently). Food pairing : Oysters Stage 7 : Alsace The first stage with a summit finish, the route runs parallel with the region of Alsace. Most notable for its white wines (although they do Pinot Noir well), the area’s proximity to Germany and its curvaceous landscape have made it one of the best places for Rieslings and Gewürztraminer wines, alongside Pinot Gris and Muscat. There are 51 ‘Grand Crus’ (top-end vineyards) in the vicinity, with a variety of soil types promoting fresh and formidable profiles. We recommend one of the region’s dry and bright Rieslings. Famed Alsace vignerons include Humbrecht, Hugel, Cave de Turckheim and Rolly Gassmann. Expect zesty attacks and a distinctive finish. Food pairing : Tarte Flambée Stage 8 : Burgundy Moving swiftly on, we’re veering slightly west of the stage and dipping our noses into world-renowned Burgundy. Arguably the place for the most romantic, and some of the most expensive, vintages; the Côte d’Or, a patch of vineyards just south of Dijon, is where you’ll find the world’s best examples of single variety Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Beaujolais made further south of here offers better value for money, with crus such as Cote de Brouilly and Fleurie. Created with Gamay grapes, Beaujolais is best served slightly chilled. Food Pairing : 24-month-aged Comté (cheese) Stages 9 – 11 : Rhône Valley We’re into the Alps now, and there’s a lot to discover. It’s a very diverse region where you could try a dry full-bodied white from the Jura or a spicy red from the Savoie. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is typically known as the pinnacle of Rhône vintages, the Col du Galibier of red wine (although they do produce a few whites in this appellation too). Some Châteauneuf-du-Pape vintages are so good even beings from outer space are believed to have to been spotted hovering over the vineyards. Outstanding Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines include those from Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe, Chateau Rayas and Guigal. More affordable but often great reds come from the Rhône villages of Cairanne, Sablet and Lirac. Apparently, some grape varieties from the Rhône date back to the Greeks; cuvées made with Grenache and Syrah or whites using Viognier are fail-safe. Food pairing : Tartiflette Stage 13 : Provence The Tour isn’t visiting Provence this year, but we had to include Café du Cycliste’s home region. For something that sings of summer in southern France, a bottle of Provençal rosé will really quench the thirst, especially after a sprint finish, or alongside the world-famous fish stew, Bouillabaisse. Rosé is made with red grape varieties but macerated with minimal skin contact, and so colour and character depends on the grapes and vinification method. One of the most revered rosé producers is the Domaine Tempier estate in Bandol, their rosé is made using Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault grapes. For wines local to Nice, Chateau de Bellet’s floral whites go perfectly with seafood. Stage 14 – 18 : Languedoc–Rousillon and Sud Ouest Moving west towards the Pyrenees, the Languedoc is home to some essential appellations including the ever-popular Picpoul de Pinet whites. The south-west wine region is vast and made up of disparate wine-making pockets. And as the race itself undoubtedly reaches its climax, you’ll find some very intense reds to enjoy. Côtes-de-Bergerac is full bodied and complex and made to extremely strict harvesting conditions. Cahors is a Dordogne wine which is even more robust, and perfect for a mountaintop finish. Wines made with native Tannat grapes are also rather punchy. Sweet wines can also be found in the mountains, such as Jurançon-sec and whites using Petit Manseng are outstanding. Cheese pairing : Rocamadour Stage 19 – 20 : Bordeaux You can’t do a tour of French wine without at least a whiff of the world’s best known winemaking region. Wine classification began here in 1855 and cuvées of thick-skinned Cabernet Sauvignon (left-bank) and Merlot (right-bank) create both powerful and smooth vintages. There are also sweet Sauternes produced here, in the sub-region of Graves, which is also where ‘Claret’ (as Bordeaux wine was referred to in the UK) was originally exported to England from. The most expensive wines here are from the left bank, known by some as ‘millionaire’s vinegar’, and offer more length and robustness than an uphill time trial. The First Growth wines of Châteaus Lafite Rothschild and Margaux will not be for everyone, so look for smaller producers from appellations such as St. Emilion, Pauillac and Médoc. Food pairing : Steak frites Stage 21 : Loire Valley The final stage is of course traditionally about a glass of Champagne (see above) for the rider in the yellow jersey, but you might wish to visit the Loire further west of Paris. Cremant from the Loire is made in the Champagne method using Chenin Blanc grapes and the south-facing slopes of the region also produce excellent whites with Sauvignon Blanc and Sancerre. The red wines of the Loire using Cabernet Franc are worth investigating, such as producers in Saumur Champigny and Bourgeil. These wines are best served lightly chilled. As American Francophile and food writer Richard Olney said it’s ‘difficult to touch with words the soul of a wine.’ Therefore, we suggest the best way to discover the wines of France is to saddle up, and head for the vineyards (or wine shop). Don’t forget the corkscrew. Further Riding The best Gnocchi in the world Found in the Cottian Alps, shared with old friends and served by new friends in a mountain retreat that momentarily mutes the volume on modern life. VIEW MORE The best socca in the world Can only come from Nissa la Bella. A niche local speciality, best enjoyed after a starter of Cols Eze and Madone, it's more niçois than Nice itself. VIEW MORE The best crêpe in the world Found in France. Obviously. A specific part of France, the place where it was invented. The rugged, coastal and rural Bretagne. VIEW MORE The best pizza in the world Not from Italy - though it is made not far from the Italian border, in the French Alpes Maritimes. VIEW MORE

The Repair-Café with Alexia Barrier When Alexia Barrier, world-class sailor and Caravan athlete, suggested the idea of organizing a Repair-Café to us, we jumped at the idea. After all, we are both now committed to working together to improve environmental cohesion, sustainability and education. As of last month, Café du Cycliste is donating 1% of revenue to Ms. Barrier’s 4myplanet initiative. So let us explain a bit more about her Repair Café. The Repair-café concept is simple: Many bicycles sit idly in the back of a garage, only because a tyre is flat, or the brakes don’t work. The Repair Café teaches people how to correct such minor issues, how to do it themselves. If you were thinking of dropping off your bike to your trusted (or slightly untrusted) local bike shop and pick it up two hours (or maybe days) later, ready to roll, go your way. However, if saving a few euros (or equivalent currency) and getting your hands dirty sounds more your cup of tea, then take the self-sufficient, planet-friendly and mentally rewarding option. The advantage is that at the end of this workshop you will be able to get tough on the simplest repairs: disassembling a wheel and putting a patch on an inner tube, adjusting brakes, gears, and mending broken chains. The principle: fix things, don’t chuck them away and replace them if unnecessary. The Repair Café welcomes old and young and is an opportunity to bring together a disparate group of people around the same virtuous project. Held worldwide, Repair Cafés offer opportunities to learn and preserve. Zero waste, maximum satisfaction. The operation was brilliantly orchestrated by the eco-warriors of Université Côte d'Azur who have held such events previously on its campuses. The team from the University came to offer expert knowledge and helped to draw the crowds into the Café du Cycliste. Students and youngsters turned out in large numbers for this first experience at the port. The workshop was an experience and an education for everyone, expertly hosted by Cyclotrope, a non-profit association. Their presenters set the tempo, involving everyone from more advanced repair workers to those who were struggling a little in their plan to bring their old bike back to life. Nice à Vélo were also there, a social scheme that informs and raises awareness among the public of Nice about the use of bicycles in the city. The Repair Café is most certainly set to return, with requests flying into us at the Café du Cycliste. The bicycle virus continues to spread. Further Riding Alexia Barrier Alexia is the 10th woman in the world to have finished the Vendée Globe race without stopping and without assistance. Cycling is her other passion. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE 1% for the Planet We spoke to Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. VIEW MORE

1% for the planet We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. Can you introduce us to 4myplanet? 4myplanet is a charitable association that I created 12 years ago. My goal was to preserve my playground, the ocean. We carry out two main actions which revolve around education and science. We create educational kits for children and carry out practical lessons with them. In addition, my racing boats are equipped with sensors to report data to oceanographic researchers around the world, which helps monitoring changes and patterns in marine biology. With 4myplanet I want to be able to give meaning to my sailing and my competitions. Success in competition is not my only goal. I love it when we continue to learn and progress together collectively. Today we have hundreds of thousands of children who follow us in France, South Africa, Brazil, and the United States through schools, associations of disadvantaged children, and with the National Union School Sport (UNSS). I hope that by the end of next year we will reach one million children. We are also a UNESCO ambassador for ocean research and observation. We can be proud of all that I believe. Can you explain one of these educational workshops to us? We are currently investigating the resources of the ocean because we often forget that ultimately the resources of the ocean are an integral part of our daily lives. Algae, for example, which we use in food, which we use for their bioluminescence in x-rays, have great gelling properties for pastries, for example. We are currently doing workshops with the kids in schools, we have them test all the properties of seaweed and they love it. How does competition and participation in the biggest races contribute to the cause of 4myplanet? Sail-racing is all the same a little selfish, even if we make people dream a lot. In general, we go there to win and have fun. That's why I need to give meaning to my races. We associate the actions of 4myplanet with every navigation, every time we set sail. I see us as players in raising awareness because we give visibility on the water and then globally. We give an important voice to the cause of the preservation of the environment and more particularly of the ocean, thanks to the races, and the media interest we get. Alongside this the Café du Cycliste as a sponsor will allow us to accelerate and amplify our actions in favour of children and the preservation of the environment. We share common values; I am really delighted and proud of this collaboration. What’s upcoming with 4myplanet? It’s all about the new sensors on my racing boats that’s got me excited right now. With these we will take data from under the water whereas before it was from the surface, hopefully providing some valuable data. I'm also going to change mounts and sail in a trimaran. These boats really fly. For the educational part, we will develop a virtual reality program for children to learn about the environment. For children who don't have access to the sea, I think virtual reality is great for giving them this experience and bringing them closer to nature. We are also going to bring young people together at our Repair Café that we will soon be organizing in the port of Nice at the Café du Cycliste. This will be an opportunity to learn how to repair your bike so you can get to and from school by bike. And in terms of sailing, what are your next projects? As for racing, I am attempting the Jules Verne trophy – a crewed, round the world, non-stop journey. I’ve assembled a 100% female crew; it's been 25 years since there has been a female team competing for this trophy. So, we're really going to try to be a model for women who want to achieve big things in sailing and life in general. If we can be this driving force, it will be even more beautiful than winning the record. I think we will succeed in involving as many people as possible in our adventure. Soon I will set off on the Route du Rhum, on a 32-meter multihull. This will also be a world first because there are no women on this type of boat. The program is quite ambitious, it's going to be super interesting. The cause for women is close to your heart, you have a personal commitment to the most vulnerable? Yes, 4myplanet dedicates actions to disadvantaged women, women who are experiencing difficulties in their professional and family life. We are committed to an association called Parcours de Femmes in Cannes. We take them sailing and I invite my coaches and we organize for them wellness workshops, yoga, learning to breathe, freediving experiences, learning to relax. What they are going through can happen to any of us. How will 4myplanet use the annual €30,000 that Café du Cycliste will allocate to it as part of its 1% for the Planet policy? €30,000 per year for the association is a huge boost that allows us to trigger actions that are waiting to be activated. A few thousand euros were missing for it to exist. Typically, the virtual reality program we couldn't do because we didn't have the budget. We will be able to launch this, and in September 2022 at the start of the school year, classes will have access to the sea thanks to sponsorship from the Café du Cycliste. Café du Cycliste is a member of 1% for the Planet®, donating 1% of our turnover to nonprofit environmental groups and charities. FURTHER RIDING NO GAS FULL GAS Sometimes it is all about fast. Clock ticking, legs screaming, heart pumping, tank emptying fast. Against a pack jostling for position or in search of a personal best. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. VIEW MORE

Ride of the Month : Provence Markets There are two things which fuel the cyclist. One is food and water, the other is the topography and scenery. Both are necessary rewards for the miles spent pushing and panting. In Provence, the home of Café du Cycliste, we are spoilt with an abundance of beautiful ingredients, a world-renowned cuisine, and thousands of miles of mountains, trails and incredible rolling roads. Campagne et gastronomie de la Côte d’Azur. May is the season of the markets in Provence, where a cornucopia of open air stalls appear each week in most towns and villages. We often like to go grunting and gathering, like the little Lycra-clad piggies we are, on our bikes to such markets – a great excuse to sample some saucisson, uncover archictectural gems and enjoy a coffee or three. We depart our Provencal promenade, of course, from the Café du Cycliste shop in the port of Nice. A cappuccino, a black Americano and an espresso for our photographer. We smile at the sun gods, blessing us yet again with golden rays and the effervescence of springtime. First we ride an easy tempo to the Basse Corniche, beginning to perspire as we reach Villefranche sur Mer with its stunning viewpoint over the sea, dinghies and yachts casting their shadows on the water. Somewhere in this vicinity was discovered the remnants of Stone Age tools. It’s fascinating to imagine prehistoric humans stalking beaches around here and lighting fires within their primitive huts. Then imagine them trying to logon to the WiFi or even zip-up their Café du Cycliste jerseys. Mind-boggling. Our carbon fibre and alloy machinery brings us to Beaulieu-sur-mer and its Art Deco Grand Casino. Feeling lucky? We keep moving. We then take the obligatory race positions on the smooth blacktop into Monaco, bellies towards our top tubes alongside the F1 circuit to Menton. Riding by the lapping waves of the turquoise sea, with the smell of sun cream in the air, brings a sense of holiday time. Some people below are even having a little dip in the chilly May water too, brave. This summer vibe – 35km into the ride – makes us want to stop for another coffee, before starting the toughest leg of the trip so we make our stop at a cute café, with a terrasse right by the sea. After having ordered our next round of cappuccino and Americano (water for the photographer this time), we sit at a table in the shade of a parasol. Maybe gelato would be better today. No matter, the stimulating aromas are rewarding. Sipping our coffee, admiring the views, this really is a taste of la dolce vita. Safety first of course. Back on the bike, taking it easy, spinning the legs until we cross the limits of Menton. Then a sudden right angle turn into a narrow road at the bottom of the Mortola climb which can take us over into Italy. But not today. As we begin to climb this narrow road we see more of Menton below, offering a view of the old town with its colourful facades of reds and yellows, the church and the port. Flashing blue water comforts our eyes once more. Following this tiny road, our route takes us up to Castellar offering beautiful views of the mountains between greenery and rocks. After Castellar, we join the road towards Castillon and Sospel but instead of going up, we take a left and turn back down toward Menton. Soon after, we reach the bottom of the famous Col de la Madone that we’ll only use for 3km before taking another left and a smooth climb that leads to Gorbio, a pretty typical perched village with quiet cobbled streets and medieval passages. Then along a pine-tree-lined road we roll back down seawards to another perched idyll, the old town of Roquebrune Cap Martin. Here we finally reach our market, in the central square with a big olive tree. We hear it before we see it. Today, market day, the tree is surrounded by stalls – from market gardener, fishmonger, to cheese monger and charcuterie. We take a quick browse, sample some Tomme à l'Ancienne, inhale the smells and adore the scenery. A quick tour of the old town (dismounting our bikes) through tiny narrow streets with cool, fresh air bouncing off the stonework. A sleeping cat, the smell of lunch being prepared. We finish off the day by riding up to La Turbie via La Moyenne. It is a gentle climb above Monaco and leads us to out third and final coffee stop. Espresso all round, single shot. From La Turbie, a true cycling crossroad of the French Riviera, it is all the way down to Nice with a plunging view over the bay and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, always good for tired legs. Further Riding March In the world of cycle racing, Milan–San Remo is one of the most prestigious events of the season. To win this trophy is to have your name chiseled into history. But only if you’re a man. VIEW MORE January Exiting Nice from the north side, this ride provides a healthy mélange of architectural and natural landmarks, with a side of local legend. VIEW MORE December In Provence, Christmas lasts 40 days. In the small village of Luceram, nativity scenes have become a sacred tradition for its inhabitants. VIEW MORE November A ride that goes further than the normal nourishing experience, climbing the iconic Col d’Eze en route to Monaco in search of a model turned urban gardener. VIEW MORE

No Gas Full Gas Facts Civilisation began 12,000 years ago. For 10,000 of those rotations of the sun, the planet’s climate has provided the stability for humanity to develop. But since the mid-twentieth century the rate at which we’ve produced energy has raised the earth’s temperature to dangerous levels. Fossil fuel consumption is a major part of this crisis. We must reduce the damage. Fast. 1. Carbon dioxide (CO2) from human activity is increasing more than 250 times faster than it did from natural sources after the last ice age. 2. Renewable energy needs maximum investment. The uptake in low-carbon energy sources can help economies to grow without increasing emissions. 3. The biggest producers of CO2 are China, the USA, India and Russia. 4. We need to fix things now. Rebalance by recapturing billions of tonnes of carbon. And stop emitting carbon on a daily basis. 5. Wind power currently fuels about 5% of the world’s electricity, which is a 2% increase since 2012. Denmark leads the way with 36% of its output produced via wind turbines. 6. The bicycle’s contribution to a greener culture is undeniable. Unsurprisingly it is the Netherlands who have the most bicycle use per capita. 99% of the population cycle, compared to 32% in the USA. 7. The combustion engine needs to be abolished for life to continue. But it’s not that simple. We need alternatives which are available and affordable. 8. To move forwards we need to be mindful of how we behave. From the choices we make every day. 10. The wheel is humanity’s greatest technological breakthrough, but now it must be used for the greater, greener good. Quick solution? Ride a push bike. 9. Scrap the car, take the train, the boat or best of all, the bicycle. 11. Café du Cycliste are forever outsiders, and we want future generations to follow us. Further Riding The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. VIEW MORE No Gas Full Gas Sometimes it is all about fast. Clock ticking, legs screaming, heart pumping, tank emptying fast. Against a pack jostling for position or in search of a personal best. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE

Nissa La Bella: Float down to the Carnival Held officially since 1873 (although reports suggest the Count of Provence held carnivals in the late 13th century), the Nice Carnival is one of the world’s most celebrated parades. A truly international festival, the fortnight-long show celebrates the city’s history and culture, hailing the start of Lent and the passing of winter. Millions of people flock to the city each year and it is yet another reason for us to celebrate our home – Nissa La Bella. A psychedelic spectacle, particularly at night, the carnival caravan consists of papier-mâché sculptures and effigies, costumed dancers and musicians, flagpoles, and dazzling illuminations. One of the most distinctive elements is the flowers featuring on the floats, and the flower battles that occur along the Promenade des Anglais. The theme of the 2022 edition was ‘King of the Animals’, and saw artists build some gargantuan representations of wild and wonderful creatures. Our Eglantine jersey is badged in honour of our hometown and available for both men and women in two colours for SS22. 1. Fierce reputation : one of the world’s longest-running parades, the carnival has been held since 1873. 2. Petal power : Flowers feature prominently every year, with ‘flower battles’ taking place along the Promenade des Anglais. 3. Capture the moment : over a million people flock to Nice during the two-week festival. 4. The paper trail : papier-mâché effigies ands cultures feature heavily, with months of preparation 5. Wild side : each year a special theme is chosen. 2022 was ‘King of the Animals’. 6. Mouse-party : all kinds of crazy costumes to be seen, and that’s just the spectators 7. Party-goers : the carnival attracts people of all ages, fun for all the family 8. Floating fun : an unhappy face at carnival is rarer than a unicorn’s tail 10. Thumbs up : See you next year young lady. 9. Sneak peek : even the locals going about their daily business can’t help but take a look at the festivities 11. Naked attraction : Nissa La Bella, what a place to be.

Étienne Hubert: Paris by Night Adventure is around every corner on a bike, even in Paris in winter. And so, I took two old kayaking veterans with me to cross the capital at night. I encouraged them with the promise of over a hundred kilometres, lots of climbing and plenty of paths that many would never normally cross in daytime Paris. The pair both held the title of world kayaking champion in past years and spent hours, summer and winter, in the cold water of rivers, in sometimes daunting conditions and have long been fans of big efforts and heavy training loads. Adventure is their bread and butter. Despite their advanced age, I know that they still have fire under their feet and that they just have to sit on a saddle for the desire to fight to burn bright. Departure at 8pm and heading south-east of Paris. At the rate at which we ride the first 15kms, the loop will quickly be completed. There is no escaping this ritual at the start of a ride, a little tester to judge each other’s form. But the fast food slows the pace before entering the forest of Notre Dame Sucy en Brie. We all left work without eating, putting us at that well-known risk of eating anything when we're hungry, and that's exactly what we do: Hamburger, fries, coke. But the next kilometres eliminate all that. Usually in this forest, the single-track is fun, the small bumps a formality, the descents playful. But with nightfall and the rain that has poured over Paris in recent days, the scenario turns out to be very different. Quickly mud gets lodged everywhere, loading the cranks and tyres, rendering us almost useless. You must push, unclog, try to get back on for a few metres further, and stop to unclog again. Our feet are now soaked in mud, I hear them cursing me. It's 11 p.m. and our speedometers show just 25kms. The night will be long. Returning towards Paris central via the Château de Vincennes, I suggest a quick stop with my friend Bertrand (Judo Olympic medallist in Barcelona) at the Olympe Sports Café to fill bidons... “We are not lingering; we still have a long way to go.” The trap is pointing its nose as I leave the bar, pints of beer have replaced bidons of water. The trap finally closes in on us when the boss serves us three shots of rum... “Now there will be a moment of euphoria, then a drop in speed…” At this time of the evening, around midnight, normal people would gladly go to bed. We are not normal people, however, especially this eve. There are still more than 50 km to go but the visit of classic Parisian spots is not negotiable: Baltard, Château de Vincennes, Pigalle, Montmartre, Madeleine, Champs Élysée, Place de l'Etoile. Even with wheels full of mud, at night, on a bike, everything takes on a new dimension, a more mythical quality. Contrasting with the daytime Paris that we know off by heart, this darker quieter city is fascinating. "You’re closed? You don't have enough left to make us three kebabs?" I have just negotiated the supply of a delicacy which will see us to the end of our ride. We get back on track, the crossing of the Bois de Boulogne is done at high speed, wheel to wheel. Roads and streets belong to us at this time of night. The coast of St Cloud will allow us to check what energy we have left 30 km from the finish. What awaits us next is a frantic return with the wind at our backs, along the banks of the Seine. Most people don't want to hang around anymore, we let ourselves be carried away by the speed and the noise of our big tyres on the macadam. The Eiffel Tower and the waterways in the heart of Paris make us however spontaneously reduce the pace, we feel privileged to taste these places at an undue hour. We linger around the Louvre Pyramid. It is 3am when we reach our quarters. The call of the bed is the strongest, we will take care of the bikes tomorrow. But it's already tomorrow... in four short hours the alarm clock will ring to bring us back to reality, our aching legs will then be able to remind us that this crossing of Paris was neither a dream, nor a nightmare, but something altogether different. Further Riding Étienne Hubert: an introduction Étienne Hubert As a World Champion sprint canoeist, cycling has always been a key part of my training routine but also a great way to socialise and explore hidden routes. VIEW MORE A Mont-Blanc Gravel Tour After the last few months of training and the Olympics in Japan, I find myself constantly craving nature. I’ve thought about doing a Gravel tour of Mont Blanc for so long, so this seemed like the perfect time. VIEW MORE Farewell to Winter It is said that the ride should be about the journey, not the destination. However, for Anton Krupicka and Hailey Moore, a recent trip in the Colorado mountains proved it’s about both. VIEW MORE A Traverse Across the Pyrenees Each summer, I set off on an adventurous trip with good friends who are up for a challenge. Last year, we bikepacked through the Alps and this year we tackled the Pyrenees. VIEW MORE