The crosswind conundrum

Photography

Crosswinds can break up a whole peloton and a well-drilled team within seconds. It can cost a racer minutes on a stage and destroy their general classification hopes. But you can learn to use them to your advantage. We went out with Team Bataia and tried to solve the crosswind conundrum.

All in all, crosswinds are chaotic and cool. They add an extra dimension to otherwise predictable stages.

Riding in crosswinds is one of the hardest parts of bike racing to master. It’s more unpredictable than climbing a col or taking part in a bunch sprint. Reading the wind, knowing the road, the rules, and the best technique can help you survive, thrive, and maybe achieve a surprising result.