The sixth edition of Paris-Roubaix Femmes kicked off under bright, sunny skies in Denain, with a chill lingering in the shade as women's team buses arrived. The race covered 143km with 33.7km of cobblestones, including two five-star sectors: Mons-en-Pévèle and the Carrefour de l'Arbre, but notably excluded the Forest of Arenberg.
Team UAE ADQ's Choice: Colnago V5RS
Starting at Team UAE ADQ, the team opted for the Colnago V5RS over the super-aero Y1RS typically used by the men's team. The white-and-blue paint scheme was a standout. The bikes were fitted with 35mm Continental GP5000 S TR tyres, which fit snugly in the Colnago frames, paired with Enve SES 4.5 wheels for a smooth combination.
Customizations for Comfort and Performance
Several riders had fully taped their handlebar tops to provide extra comfort, as riders tend to hold the tops more at Roubaix. Some even had STI shifter hoods fully bar taped, a bold move to enhance comfort on the rough terrain. The Factor Monza bikes, used by Factor-sponsored teams, offered durability and bigger clearance, with some featuring aftermarket CCD EVO S derailleur pulleys from French brand Nova Ride.
Tyre and Wheel Innovations
Teams experimented with various tyre sizes and types:
- Hutchinson Blackbird Race tyres in 32mm size, used without tyre inserts.
- Vittoria Corsa Pro Control tyres for added protection on cobblestones.
- Schwalbe G One Speed gravel tyres in 35mm, an unusual but smart choice for comfort.
- Mavic Power Cup 32mm tyres on Mavic wheels, marking a return to the mix with sleek silver hubs.
New wheel technology was also on display, such as the Ursus Arya G wheels with Sapim PBO vibration-damping spokes, designed specifically for rough surfaces.
Sponsor Incorrect Tyres and Modifications
Some teams, like Liv Alula Jayco, swapped their usual Cadex tyres for sponsor-incorrect Vittoria Corsa Pro Control rubber, likely for better performance on cobbles. Similarly, Michelin logos were sharpied out on tyres, possibly due to size limitations.
Emergency Preparedness and Custom Details
Teams showed ingenuity with allen keys taped to computer mounts or seatposts for emergency wheel changes. Custom paint jobs, like Alison Jackson's Canadian-themed bike and Human Powered Health's Pokémon-inspired Factors, added flair. Motivating stem notes, such as "slay the beast," provided psychological boosts.
Drivetrain and Component Upgrades
Many teams used 1X aero chainrings, with Shimano's absence in this area noted as a gap. SRAM Red XPLR rear mechs were modified to work with 12-speed road cassettes for durability and close gear spacing. GRX gravel derailleurs with clutches were fitted to aid chain retention over cobbles.
Advanced Tyre Systems
Lidl-Trek employed the Odyssey Optic Tyre inflation system, featuring a toughened TPU tube inside the tubeless tyre for run-flat capability and increased protection. Special sealants were applied to tyre sidewalls for better bead retention and possible aero benefits.
Final Thoughts
As the race helicopters buzzed overhead, the tech gallery highlighted the blend of innovation, customization, and practicality that defines Paris-Roubaix. From gravel wheels to crazy bar tape jobs, the event showcased how teams push boundaries to conquer one of cycling's toughest challenges.
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