The May issue of Velo has hit newsstands and you’ll want to get your hands on it as soon as you can.
Our cover story focuses on the bikes of the cobbles — and none other than the Trek Domane, the bike that helped Fabian Cancellara win the Ronde van Vlaanderen (Tour of Flanders), graces our cover.
We put four endurance bikes to the test in the lab and on the road to conduct an in-depth analysis of these distinct and capable machines: the Domane 6.9, Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL4, Look 675, and Volagi Liscio. The VeloLab crew analyzed and scrutinized each of the unique rides, and the results may surprise you.
The issue isn’t just about bikes, however. It’s filled with racing, roots, and the smells of victory. Yes, in our up-front VeloNotes section, contributor Ryan Newill explores the fragrances and foul odors that make the spring classics so special, alongside an analysis of the farcical Operacíon Puerto trial by correspondent Andrew Hood in Madrid, Spain.
We’ve introduced two new columns for May. The first, “Iconic Places,” details stretches of road that have become part of pro cycling legend, and that are within your reach. The first installment details the Côte de Stockeu near Stavelot, Belgium, an iconic climb featured in Liège-Bastogne-Liège.
In “Faces in the Bunch,” we spotlight unknown, amateur athletes. This month, San Francisco’s Chris Phipps of ThirstyBear Cycling is our inaugural amateur racer in the spotlight.
Of course we’re also back to WorldTour racing, full-throttle, and Andrew Hood takes a look at the performances and results from Paris-Nice and Tirreno-Adriatico to better understand what we can expect in the months, and years, to come. Peter Sagan (Cannondale) continues to rise, while Nacer Bouhanni (FDJ) has the French hoping they’ve found their next fearless sprint star. Chris Froome and Richie Porte showcase more Sky power, with Froome battling Tirreno winner Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) and Porte displaying his newfound stage racing prowess. Meanwhile, Andrew Talansky (Garmin-Sharp) unleashes the pit bull at Paris-Nice to confirm that he’s the real deal, a talent to watch for years to come.
Another young talent to keep your eyes on is Germany’s John Degenkolb (Argos-Shimano). Contributor Gregor Brown delivers a profile that delves into exactly what makes this former policeman and winner of five stages at the 2012 Vuelta a España tick.
Before he was a grand tour contender, Chris Froome was a teenager in Kenya, riding under the tutelage of David Kinjah. Andrea Dijkstra and photographer Jeroen van Loon bring you the story of Froome’s roots from Kenya.
Meanwhile, in Rwanda, Adrien Niyonshuti and Jonathan Boyer have helped the nation’s cycling talent onto the world stage. Contributor Gregor Brown reports from Kigali, Rwanda, on the rise of Rwandan cycling.
The North American Handmade Bicycle Show took place in Denver earlier this year. Functional art was everywhere, as the best designers and craftsmen showcased their ultimate creations. Velo reporter Matt Beaudin focused on three builders that emerged as truly inspiring. Rob English, winner of the Best in Show award for his ultra-sleek TT Mk.2, represents the small of the small. Breadwinner Cycles represents the best of two established handmade icons, Tony Pereira and Ira Ryan. Hear why they decided to team up for this new partnership. Finally, the little giant that could, Moots, finds itself at the sharp end of a metal revival. Learn more about the subtly beautiful brand.
There’s nothing worse than getting pumped for a new season as the weather warms, then overriding your way into a knee injury. Contributor and coach Trevor Connor helps you avoid knee injuries by teaching you to train intelligently, and if you have existing injuries, how best to overcome.
Pick up a copy of the May 2013 issue of Velo, available now at booksellers and bike shops near you and on Apple Newsstand or Zinio.