Every July, the Tour de France captivates millions, transforming casual viewers into passionate fans. Whether you’re pondering tire pressure during meetings or wondering if Tadej Pogačar would approve of your coffee stop pace, the Tour brings more than just extended screen time and a spike in croissant consumption—it brings identity, purpose, and a delightful chaos. Suddenly, without realizing it, you’ve become that fan. But which type are you?
The Superfan Who Rides… Occasionally
These fans love cycling but often find themselves more adept at discussing it than doing it. They may lack the technique and physique but make up for it with encyclopedic knowledge. Ask them about gear setups, and you’ll get a detailed dissertation complete with brand comparisons and historical anecdotes from past Tours. However, don’t expect them to take a pull or draft effectively—they’re chasing theoretical w/kg superiority from the comfort of their couch, baguette in one hand, spreadsheet in the other.
For these fans, the Tour is a journey best experienced from afar, with full commentary on why UAE’s leadout failed in Stage 13. They relish the strategy and technicalities, even if their own riding is more occasional than competitive.
The Casual Observer
For some, the Tour de France is a background spectacle, enjoyed while multitasking. These fans know the big names like Pogačar and Vingegaard but might struggle to explain the intricacies of the yellow jersey’s retention despite finishing two minutes down. The Tour is a vibe, an event to leave on while reorganizing the spice rack or managing a group chat.
Riding habits of these fans are inconsistent, dictated by weather and social schedules. They appreciate the Tour’s dramatic moments, like final sprints and helicopter shots of castles, without getting bogged down in details like domestiques or power numbers. Their approach to cycling is about enjoyment, not competition.
The Reluctantly Ripped Tour Analyst
This fan doesn’t cheer or argue over tactics—they ride. Their commitment to cycling is a personal challenge, often undertaken while grinding out threshold intervals on the trainer. They know the rules and who’s in yellow but are more focused on their own performance metrics than on the race itself.
For these fans, the Tour is a benchmark, not a spectacle. They compare their own wattage and performance to the pros, driven by data rather than passion. They ride because their body demands it, with an FTP that holds more emotional significance than any race result.
The Pro in Disguise
Some fans don’t just watch the Tour—they live it. They know every team, strategy, and wattage, having watched each stage multiple times in multiple languages. Their dedication extends beyond viewing; they train with the same intensity, often timing their rides to coincide with key Tour stages.
These fans participate in events like L’Étape and consider finishing outside the top 100 a reason to switch sports. Their gear is meticulously maintained, and their nutrition is planned to perfection. For them, the Tour is not just a race—it’s a lifestyle.
Whether you’re hammering out watts or watching from the sofa, the Tour de France has a way of revealing your cycling persona. Are you chasing a podium or enjoying the spectacle with a cold drink in hand? Take our quiz to discover your Tour de France alter ego and win exciting prizes.
So, which type of Tour de France fan are you? The answer might surprise you, but one thing is certain: the Tour doesn’t just showcase the world’s strongest riders—it quietly exposes the quirks and passions of its fans.
