The seasons are changing, and so is the face of the pro peloton. One of the most prolific racers, a two-time Olympic time trial champion, a rider with a highlight reel that could be feature-film length, Fabian Cancellara is retiring. Caley Fretz looks back on the career of the man known as “Spartacus,” who dominated time trials and lit up spring classics for 17 years.
A transition is also happening in the off-road world of cyclocross, where youngsters Wout Van Aert and Matheiu van der Poel have taken over as the sport’s biggest stars. Meanwhile, the old guard — Sven Nys, Niels Albert, and Bart Wellens — haven’t left the the sport. In fact, those former world champions are more involved than ever, directing some of the biggest, most dominant teams on the European circuit.
The U.S. cyclocross scene hasn’t quite reached this transition point. America’s two top riders, Katie Compton and Jeremy Powers, continue to dominate and will once again commit to the World Cup circuit. But how much longer will they hold the mantle (and Stars and Stripes jerseys)? Chris Case considers the outlook for Compton and Powers, as well as the up-and-coming U.S. ‘cross pros who may be the next wave of top talent from the States.
While the sport evolves in these visible ways, there are also changes behind the scenes. Fred Dreier has an in-depth look at former professional Caleb Fairly and his plans to revolutionize the way cycling agents operate.
However, one thing that won’t change is the significant impact Greg LeMond had on pro cycling in the U.S. and abroad. The October issue of VeloNews features an excerpt from “Greg LeMond: Yellow Jersey Racer,” a new book by VeloPress that explores the early years of his legendary career.
Plus, this issue includes reviews of two cyclocross bikes, vests, a training column that defends the benefits of riding with a heart rate monitor, and an interview with Mara Abbott.
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