Competitive cycling: pushing the boundaries of engineering

Cycling has become one of the most popular recreational and sporting activities in Ireland. Indeed, in 2014, Ireland and Northern Ireland hosted three stages of the Giro dItalia (one of the worlds most prestigious races). The Tour de France is probably the one cycling race that evokes images within the general public; indeed it is the largest annual sporting event in the world and is widely considered the hardest (and has been one of the most controversial) professional sporting events in the world. Furthermore the role of cycling in transport policy is becoming internationally recognised. At the highest level, engineers are often the key to increasing the gains sought by cyclists. Engineers strive to develop components and frames that are lightweight without compromising robustness and stiffness.