Tech Extra: Pro Bike Set Ups For The Cobbled Classics

Cobbled classics like Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders present a unique challenge. Here's how pro bikes are adapted to tackle the cobbles.

Subscribe to GCN: http://gcn.eu/SubscribeToGCN
Get exclusive GCN gear in the GCN store! http://gcn.eu/BuyGCNKit_
Sign up to the GCN newsletter: http://gcn.eu/gcnnewsletter

How do the pro teams adapt their bikes for the cobbled classics? It's not all about changing tyres and bottle cages. Different frames, different brakes and more bar tape are all quite standard changes.

Tom Boonen has even gone as far as using his Roubaix specific bike. Etixx-QuickStep mechanic Kenny Latomme hinted that this could be because Tom will be attacking over the cobbles later today. We'd love to see that.

At Lampre-Merida, we spotted Davide Cimolai on the 2017 Merida Scultura disc, which looks incredible.

Finally, some Team Sky riders are on the prototype Pinarello K8-S. Which has similar properties to the KS-8 – the bike that they used with the small suspension unit last year – but handles near-identically to the team's standard race bikes.

Let us know your favourite bike from the video and your favourite for the race down in the comments and don't forget to SHARE this video too!

Watch more on GCN...
Tour of Flanders 2016 preview show ▶︎ http://gcn.eu/1RFOeTE
Pro bike playlist ▶︎ http://gcn.eu/1X8lzui
The Koppenberg epic climb ▶︎ http://gcn.eu/1pW0Mz8
The art of riding cobbled climbs ▶︎ http://gcn.eu/1SFpuNG

Buy GCN winter kit, casual wear and accessories in the GCN Shop: http://gcn.eu/TheGCNShop

Music:
Jayphonik - Solardome: http://gcn.eu/1PkZZld

Photos: © Bettiniphoto / http://www.bettiniphoto.net/ & ©Tim De Waele / http://www.tdwsport.com

About GCN:

The Global Cycling Network puts you in the centre of the action: from the iconic climbs of Alpe D’Huez and Mont Ventoux to the cobbles of Flanders, everywhere there is road or pavé, world-class racing and pro riders, we will be there bringing you action, analysis and unparalleled access every week, every month, and every year. We show you how to be a better cyclist with our bike maintenance videos, tips for improving your cycling, cycling top tens, and not forgetting the weekly GCN Show. Join us on YouTube’s biggest and best cycling channel to get closer to the action and improve your riding!

Welcome to the Global Cycling Network | Inside cycling

Thanks to our sponsors:

Santini cycling kit: http://gcn.eu/1SFf8PV
Kask helmets: http://gcn.eu/1FrbcHK
fi’zi:k shoes and saddles: http://gcn.eu/1tsXI7S and http://gcn.eu/1KxBGd5
SCOTT bikes: http://gcn.eu/1Btx0Bj
Ridley bikes: http://gcn.eu/1EDbfPy
Topeak tools: http://gcn.eu/1Lc4HAj
Canyon bikes: http://gcn.eu/1Oge4gz
Muc-Off: http://gcn.eu/1XlT5Og
Science in Sport: http://gcn.eu/1GrXo6n
Ass Savers: http://gcn.eu/1XlTmkm
Orbea bikes: http://gcn.eu/1oks6GH

YouTube Channel - http://gcn.eu/gcnYT
Facebook - http://gcn.eu/gcnFb
Google+ - http://gcn.eu/gcnGPlus
Twitter - http://gcn.eu/gcnTW
GCN newsletter - http://gcn.eu/gcnnewsletter

Leave us a comment below!