Quentin Deby
Performance and Racing Features Writer at BikeTips
Quentin’s background in bike racing runs deep. In his youth, he won the prestigious junior Roc d’Azur MTB race before representing Belgium at the U17 European Championships in Graz, Austria. Shifting to road racing, he then competed in some of the biggest races on the junior calendar, including Gent-Wevelgem and the Tour of Flanders, before stepping up to race Liège-Bastogne-Liège and Paris-Roubaix as an U23.
With a breakthrough into the cut-throat environment of professional racing just out of reach, Quentin decided to shift his focus to embrace bike racing as a passion rather than a career. Now writing for BikeTips, Quentin’s experience provides invaluable insight into performance cycling – though he’s always ready to embrace the fun side of the sport he loves too and share his passion with others.
Quentin’s latest articles:
Lightweight Vs Aero: Which Is More Important In Bike Racing?
Chasing maximum cycling performance hinges on a critical issue in the philosophy of bike design. …
Flat Bars Vs Drop Bars for Road and Gravel Bikes: Which Is Right For You?
Choosing the right handlebars for your bike can feel like navigating a winding road. Are …
Opinion: Is Remco Evenepoel Good Enough To Win The Tour de France?
The Big Four look set to battle for the Tour de France crown in 2024 – but is Remco Evenepoel good enough to challenge Vingegaard, Pogačar, and Roglič?
Cycling Spring Classics & Monuments 2024: Race Dates, How To Watch, And Essential Info
Considered by many cycling purists to be the most exciting part of the professional calendar, …
What To Wear For A Triathlon
This comprehensive guide to triathlon attire will take you through all the essentials, from basics to accessories, and offer valuable tips to help you make informed on what to wear for a triathlon.
Riding In The Mud: Pro Cycling Techniques
For seasoned cyclists, riding in the mud isn’t just about enduring the grime; it’s a test of skill, a dance with nature, and above all, a badge of honor in the world of two wheels. As a former mountain bike and cyclocross racer, honing my techniques for riding in the mud was crucial for preserving speed during races.
When Should You Shift Gears on a Bike?
Cycling is more than just hopping on a bike and pedaling away; it’s a dance of mechanics, physics, and human effort, all harmonizing to create a simpler ride. At the heart of your performance lies the art to shift gears on a bike. For many, gears are those mysterious rings and chains that somehow make hills manageable and descents thrilling. But how to know when to shift gears and how to shift gears?
What Is A Randonnée in Cycling – And Why Should You Start Randonneuring?
Put simply, a “randonnée” (also known as “brevet” or “Audax”, depending on where you are in the world) is a long-distance, non-competitive, self-supported bike ride. Randonnée courses are typically 200 km (125 miles) or longer, with predetermined checkpoints through which riders must pass. Finishing order does not matter; the sole aim is to complete the course within the time limit.
Hero to Zero: What Is Lance Armstrong Doing Now?
An iconic figure who pedaled his way to seven consecutive Tour de France titles, his legacy turned to ashes with the greatest doping scandal in the history of the sport. But what is Lance Armstrong doing now? As he shifts gears from the saddle to entrepreneurial ventures, podcasts, TV shows, and even a deep-diving documentary, one thing remains clear: Lance Armstrong is indefatigable.
Who Are The Best American Cyclists in Men’s Road Cycling in 2023?
American riders are not just pedaling in the background; they’re right in the limelight in the thrilling narrative of the world’s most prestigious bike races – just look at Sepp Kuss’s victory in this year’s thrilling Vuelta a España. But who are the best American cyclists competing in the present day?
What Is A Bike Computer – And Do You Need One?
Few technological advances have revolutionized elite cycling like the bike computer. Bike computers – also known as “head units” – are small devices that attach to your stem or handlebars that calculate and display a range of information about your ride, such as speed, cadence, power, distance, elevation profiles, and GPS navigational information.
Triathlon Bike Vs Road Bike: Essential Differences Explained
Different disciplines require different steeds, particularly when it comes to the nuances between triathlon bikes vs road bikes. While they might seem similar in some ways to the untrained eye, each is meticulously designed to serve its unique purpose.
Saddle Sores: Treatment and Prevention
Unpleasant at best and excruciating at worst, saddle sores can transform a passion for pedaling into a test of endurance. So, how can we overcome this obstacle and continue to enjoy our rides?
Aero Bars Explained: What Are Tri Bars, And Are They Really Worth It?
From the windswept roads of the Tour de France to the grueling Ironman triathlon, aero bars (also known as triathlon bars) are a common sight in cycling and triathlon events worldwide. They have sparked countless debates and discussions, but do they truly provide a significant advantage?
UCI Gravel World Championships 2023: Niewiadoma and Mohorič triumph in Veneto
Amidst the picturesque vistas of Veneto, gravel grinders from around the world clashed in a battle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. With its winding trails and relentless elevation shifts, the challenging Veneto circuit tested the mettle of every competitor.
Sprinting legend Peter Sagan retires from road cycling in search of Olympic mountain bike glory
As the sun set on the picturesque landscape of the Tour de Vendée this past Sunday, a legendary chapter came to a close. Peter Sagan announced earlier this year, on his 33rd birthday, that this would be his final season on the road, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of professional cycling.
Primož Roglič confirms shock Jumbo-Visma exit with Ineos and BORA-hansgrohe rumors swirling
Primož Roglič has confirmed rumors he will depart the all-conquering Jumbo-Visma outfit at the end of this season, sparking feverish competition between the teams vying for his signature.
Controversial Rumors of Jumbo-Visma Soudal-QuickStep Merger Rock Cycling
The renowned cycling website WielerFlits dropped a bombshell on Sunday evening with a breaking report that Soudal-QuickStep is working on a merger deal with Jumbo-Visma to create a new cycling superteam. Talks between the teams have been ongoing since mid-July, with Jumbo-Visma and Soudal-QuickStep being combined for the start of the 2024 season under the name Soudal-Visma or Visma-Soudal.
The Jumbo-Visma Juggernaut: Secrets Behind The 2023 Clean Sweep
Jumbo-Visma managed to win all three Grand Tours in the same year, with three different riders claiming victory in the Giro d’Italia, the Tour de France, and the Vuelta a España. Not even the dominant Team Sky achieved such a feat back in their heyday. So, what exactly drives their consistent success?
Sepp Kuss: America’s New Cycling Idol
It’s been a full ten years, but America can finally celebrate having a Grand Tour champion once more. This past Sunday, Sepp Kuss clinched victory at the Vuelta a España, earning the honor of being the first American to win such a prestigious cycling race since Chris Horner’s win in 2013.
Vuelta A España 2023: Dainese Sprints to Stage 19 Victory After Groves Wiped Out
In an exhilarating Stage 19 of the Vuelta a España, the day’s narrative was dominated by a fiercely contested sprint finish with a game-changing crash. Green jersey Kaden Groves was among those brought down just outside 1 km to go, opening the door for Alberto Dainese to claim the victory.
Vuelta A España 2023: Vingegaard’s Win on Stage 16 Throws Red Jersey Battle Wide Open
Stage 16 of the Vuelta a España was characterized by blistering speeds, strategic decisions, and emotionally charged moments. As the riders embarked on the route, they were met with varying weather conditions – from torrential downpours to brief spells of dryness. All eyes were on Jumbo-Visma’s trio and the UAE Team’s tactics for their General Classification contenders.
All-Time Great Annemiek van Vleuten Hangs Up Her Cleats
Annemiek van Vleuten’s final race was more than just another competition – it was a heartfelt farewell to a storied career spanning 16 eventful years. As the curtain falls on her professional journey, a new chapter of possibilities and passions unfolds, hinting at ventures beyond the familiar cycling lanes.
Vuelta a España 2023: Kämna Dominates Stage 9 amid Echelons and Muddy Climbs
In an electrifying day of racing during Stage 9 of Vuelta A España, from Cartagena to Collado de la Cruz de Caravaca, the echelons caused by crosswinds and the challenging final climb had spectators riveted. Lennard Kämna of Team BORA-Hansgrohe executed a perfect breakaway strategy, culminating in a thrilling stage win after managing to fend off the determined Sobrero. The day was rife with strategic moves as teams such as Jumbo-Visma and Soudal Quickstep sought to take advantage of the early echelons.
Vuelta A España 2023: Geoffrey Soupe Defies Odds in Chaotic Stage 7 Win
In what could be best described as a gripping stage with unexpected twists, Vuelta A España Stage 7 kept viewers at the edge of their seats. The stage largely played out with a seemingly predictable nature, characterized by a somewhat relaxing peloton that suggested a bunch finish. The presence of a block headwind kept the group together, and despite a few risks posed by crosswinds and a series of roundabouts, most of the race maintained a steady tempo. However, the intermittent sprints, the unforeseen crashes, and the hairpin turns near the end significantly upped the stakes, turning what could have been a standard stage into an electrifying race.
Beginner’s Guide to the Vuelta a España 2023: Everything You Need To Know
This year, the Vuelta a España 2023 promises another exhilarating chapter in its storied journey, with heart-pounding climbs, lightning-fast sprints, and strategies that can make or break a season. Ready for the ride?
Tour de Chaos: the Rising Wave of Fan Crashes in Cycling
The Tour de France: three weeks of grueling climbs, breathtaking descents, and sprint finishes that leave spectators around the globe glued to their screens. But behind the fascination and thrill of this legendary cycling race, there lies an increasing problem: fan behavior.
Tour de France 2023: Vingegaard Retains Title as Meeus Wins Champs-Élysées Photo Finish
Stage 21 of the 2023 Tour de France saw a thrilling conclusion in Paris as Jordi Meeus of Bora emerged victorious in a razor-thin sprint finish. The final stage of the race started off as a relaxed procession toward the French capital, with riders enjoying the tradition of champagne toasts and photo opportunities. However, once the peloton entered Paris, the atmosphere shifted from casual to competitive.
Tour de France 2023: Pogačar Punches Through Competition to Win Spectacular Stage 20
The penultimate stage of the 2023 Tour de France turned into a tense, tactically charged race with Tadej Pogacar delivering a stunning performance to win the stage. Beginning the day, the spotlight was on Thibaut Pinot, the French rider attempting to seize the opportunity for a home victory.
Beyond the Jersey: The Designers Behind Tour de France Fashion
From the eye-catching peloton speeding through French countrysides to the iconic Tour de France jerseys worn by the race leaders, the cycling world is rich in color, aerodynamics, and fashion. But have you ever paused to consider the minds behind those vibrant outfits worn by the athletes?
Following the Pack: The Logistics of Moving the Tour de France
Imagine planning your summer vacation. Now, imagine planning a vacation for not just your family, but for 176 cyclists, their support teams, a vast media crew, and a legion of enthusiastic fans. That’s a small glimpse into the Tour de France logistics. Established in 1903, the Tour de France is more than just the world’s premier cycling race—it’s a moving city that travels across the diverse landscapes of France for three weeks.
Keeping the Wheels Turning: Inside the Mechanics’ Truck at the Tour de France
The world of professional cycling is a heady mix of adrenaline, endurance, and high-speed strategy. But behind the scenes, unsung heroes are tirelessly working to ensure every race goes off without a hitch. These are the mechanics – the lifeline of every team, the guardians of every cycle.
Tour de France 2023: Kwiatkowski Takes Brilliant Stage 13 Victory on Grand Colombier, Pogačar Intensifies GC Contest
In what turned out to be an electrifying Stage 13 of the 2023 Tour de France, Michał Kwiatkowski of Ineos Grenadiers broke away from the pack to achieve a well-deserved victory atop the Grand Colombier. The battle commenced right from the start at Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne, with the peloton showcasing an impressive average speed of over 50km/h.
A Day in the Life of a Tour de France Rider
What does it take to compete in the world’s most grueling cycling event? Is it just about power, speed, and endurance? Or is there more to the story? This isn’t a typical 9-to-5 job; it’s a day in the life of a Tour de France rider.
What’s The Tour de France Average Speed?
As the starting gun echoes through the morning air, a swarm of cyclists surges forward, their eyes fixed on a singular goal: the Champs-Élysées. But what factors decide who gets there first, and what is the Tour de France average speed?
Tour de France 2023: Jasper Philipsen Clinches Fourth Win of the Tour on Stage 11
Stage 11 of the Tour de France 2023 saw Belgian sprinter Jasper Philipsen of Alpecin-Deceuninck secure his fourth win of the Tour in a thrilling sprint finish in Moulins. The stage, stretching from Clermont-Ferrand to Moulins over 179.8 kilometers, was a relatively flat affair, making it a prime opportunity for the sprinters to shine.
Cycling Superfans: A Tour De France Tradition
Cycling enthusiasts know that the annual Tour de France is about much more than the competitors battling it out across a grueling 3,500 kilometers. In the midst of this epic athletic event, another breed of competitor emerges: the Tour de France superfans.
Chris Froome: Does Tour de France Snub Spell The End For The Four-Time Champion?
In the world of professional cycling, few names have dominated the leaderboard like Chris Froome – the British phenom who has amassed a staggering four Tour de France victories. Yet, in a surprising twist, he has been conspicuously left out of the Israel-Premier Tech squad for the 2023 Tour de France, triggering a flurry of speculation about the future of this cycling titan.
What Do The Pros Do on a Tour de France Rest Day?
Beneath the fiery intensity of the Tour de France, rest days flicker as an oasis of recovery, rejuvenation, and strategic reevaluation for the riders. This isn’t your typical rest day with your feet kicked up. Instead, it’s a meticulously choreographed interlude.
Tour de France 2023: Michael Woods Seizes Puy de Dôme Victory As Pogačar Shrinks Deficit Again on Stage 9
Canada’s Michael Woods pulled off a career-best victory on the iconic Puy de Dôme, overhauling Matteo Jorgenson within the final kilometer on Stage 9 of the 2023 Tour de France.
Tour de France 2023: Philipsen Strikes Again to Snatch Third Victory in Stage 7
In a gripping finale to the Stage 7 of the 110th Tour de France, Jasper Philipsen (Alpecin-Deceuninck) clinched his third win of the 2023 edition, defeating Mark Cavendish (Astana-Qazaqstan) in a heart-stopping sprint finish. When Cavendish, seeking to break the record for the most stage wins in Tour history, took a flyer and hit out for glory, Philipsen had to react swiftly.
Greatest Rivalries in Tour de France History
Over its storied history, the Tour de France has been the backdrop for numerous fierce rivalries, duels that have captured the world’s imagination and indelibly marked the sport’s legacy.
The Revenant Egan Bernal: Defying Death to Return to the Tour de France
This is the story of Egan Bernal, the prodigious cyclist whose shining career took a horrifying detour. The zenith of his career arrived in 2019, when he reigned supreme to claim victory at the Tour de France. However, disaster struck in 2022, when a catastrophic accident nearly halted his shining career in its tracks.
Tour de France 2023: Philipsen Clinches Second Consecutive Victory Amidst Stage 4 Chaos
Jasper Philipsen (Alpecin-Deceuninck) claimed his second consecutive victory on Stage 4 of the 2023 Tour de France, outsprinting Caleb Ewan (Lotto-Dstny) by half a wheel at the line in Nogaro. The riders covered 181.8 km from Dax to Nogaro, with Philipsen’s teammate Mathieu van der Poel once again providing a crucial lead-out.
Mark Cavendish’s Bid for History: Chasing No. 35 at the 2023 Tour de France
The world of professional cycling has witnessed many legends, but few stories are as compelling as that of Mark Cavendish. A career once seemingly over due to health setbacks and a string of misfortunes has blossomed into a tale of resurgence, fueling hopes of a record-breaking 35th stage victory in the Tour de France.
Riding Through Time: History of Le Tour Told in 15 Iconic Tour de France Bikes
Fasten your helmets and prepare to embark on a riveting journey that cycles through over a century of pedal-pushing evolution, exploring the transformation and innovation of historic Tour de France bikes. We’ll explore the nuances of each epoch, focusing on the innovations and adaptations that have transformed the face of professional cycling.
Giro d’Italia Donne 2023: Ultimate Preview
In the heart of summer, the 34th Giro d’Italia Donne, the women’s Giro d’Italia, is poised to ignite the cobbled streets and rolling hills of Italy with racing action that promises to rival the drama of its esteemed male counterpart. The 2023 race will take riders through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, Piedmont, Liguria, and Sardinia.
Tour de France Femmes 2023: Ultimate Preview
Set to commence on Sunday, July 23, in Clermont-Ferrand, the Tour de France Femmes 2023 promises to outshine its inaugural 2022 version, where Annemiek Van Vleuten claimed the first-ever title. Across eight stages and a challenging 956 km route through central and southern France, the competitors will vie for glory, culminating in a thrilling race against the clock in Pau.
Tour de France Tactics Masterclass: Insider’s Guide to the Strategies Used by Top Teams
The Tour de France isn’t just a test of physical talent and endurance; it is a chess game on wheels, a spectacle of strategy where every decision could mean the difference between victory and defeat. In this article, I’ll be drawing on my experience of elite-level road racing to demystify the fascinating tactics and intricate strategies that shape the outcomes of this iconic race.
15 Most Iconic Moments in Tour de France History
From the grueling ascents to the perilous descents, from breathtaking victories to heartbreaking losses, the Tour de France has provided the world with some of the most dramatic moments in sports history. With the 2023 Tour de France on the horizon, we’re going to take you on a remarkable journey, filled with pivotal breakthroughs and legendary clashes, covering the 15 Most Iconic Moments in Tour de France History.
The Science of Cycling: How Top Athletes Prepare For The Tour De France
As we count down to this year’s Tour, we delve into the intense preparation that makes each pedal stroke on the road to Paris possible.
Lance Armstrong Bikes: The Story of the Disgraced Champion Told Through 9 Iconic Tour de France Bikes
Lance Armstrong rode many bikes during his now-infamous career, always in pursuit of the best technologies and performance. This article will explore nine legendary Lance Armstrong bikes that he rode while conquering the Tour de France, showcasing the evolution of materials and technology in the sport.
Ultimate Giro d’Italia 2023 Preview: Route, Teams, and More
Get ready for an exciting and unpredictable journey as the Giro d’Italia 2023 kicks off in the Abruzzo region of Italy on Saturday, 6 May. As one of the three Grand Tours, the Giro d’Italia 2023 is renowned for its grueling multi-stage endurance race, featuring the world’s top cyclists competing for the prestigious pink jersey (maglia rosa).
L’Étape du Tour 2023: What Is L’Étape, And How Do You Take Part?
Welcome to the 31st edition of L’Étape du Tour 2023! This prestigious annual cycling event …
How Does The Tour de France Work? Beginner’s Guide To Le Tour 2023
Are you a cycling enthusiast or a curious beginner who wants to learn more about the world’s most prestigious cycling race, but caught yourself wondering: “How does the Tour de France work?” Well, look no further than this beginner’s guide to the Tour de France, where we’ll cover everything you need to know about the race.
Vuelta a España Commentators 2023: Channel-By-Channel, Nation-By-Nation
Whether you’re a seasoned cycling aficionado or a newcomer captivated by the allure of the peloton, knowing the voices behind the commentary can enrich your viewing experience. In this article, we journey across networks and borders, introducing you to the broadcasters and their star-studded Vuelta a España commentators for 2023.