Tour de France Femmes Faces 3.6% Drag-Cut Padded Bra Claims
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Aug 3
Tour de France Femmes Faces 3.6% Drag-Cut Padded Bra Claims
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 3
Summary
Several women’s WorldTeams have complained that some riders may be using padded bras to fake a larger cup size and gain an aerodynamic edge during time trials at the Tour de France Femmes.
Dutch outlet Wielerflits said the alleged tactic works through a “chest fairing” effect; aerodynamics professor Bert Blocken said a rounder chest can cut air resistance by up to 3.6% and save decisive seconds over 20 to 30 kilometers.
UCI rules already ban placing objects on the chest or using clothing to alter a rider’s body shape, putting any such padding in clear violation if confirmed.
Teams pressing for action want female jurors to inspect riders in a closed tent immediately after time trials, as the controversy flares during a race now underway across Switzerland and France.
How will elite female cyclists balance the intense pursuit of marginal aerodynamic gains with the reality of proposed post-race undergarment inspections?
With a crucial time trial looming, will the UCI implement invasive private tent checks to stop alleged aerodynamic bra padding?