3 Wheel Motorcycle Used In Tour De France
The Tour de France is one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world. It is a grueling competition that covers a distance of approximately 3,500 kilometers over three weeks. But did you know that there is a three-wheel motorcycle used in the Tour de France? That's right! This unique vehicle, known as the "voiture balai," plays a crucial role in the race. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the voiture balai and its importance in the Tour de France.
What is a Voiture Balai?
The voiture balai is a three-wheel motorcycle that follows the race from start to finish. The French name "voiture balai" translates to "broom wagon" in English. Its primary purpose is to sweep up riders who have fallen behind or have been eliminated from the race due to injuries or other reasons.
The vehicle is also used to clear the course of any debris or obstacles that may pose a danger to the riders. It carries spare bikes, wheels, and other equipment that can be used by the riders in case of a breakdown or mechanical failure. The driver of the voiture balai is responsible for ensuring that the race runs smoothly and that all the riders are safe.
History of the Voiture Balai
The concept of the voiture balai was first introduced in the Tour de France in 1910. The race was becoming increasingly popular, and the organizers realized the need for a vehicle to keep up with the riders and provide support in case of emergencies. The first voiture balai was a horse-drawn carriage that followed the racers.
As technology advanced, the horse-drawn carriage was replaced by a motorized vehicle. In the early days, the voiture balai was used mainly to transport journalists and photographers who were covering the race. However, as the race became more competitive, its role evolved to include providing support to the riders.
Importance of the Voiture Balai in the Tour de France
The voiture balai plays a crucial role in the Tour de France. It ensures that the race runs smoothly and that all the riders are safe. The vehicle follows the peloton and sweeps up any riders who have fallen behind or have been eliminated from the race. It also carries spare bikes and equipment that can be used by the riders in case of a breakdown.
In addition to this, the voiture balai is responsible for clearing the course of any debris or obstacles that may pose a danger to the riders. The driver of the vehicle needs to be highly skilled and experienced to navigate the narrow and winding roads of the race route. They need to be able to react quickly in case of an emergency and make split-second decisions that can mean the difference between life and death.
Conclusion
The voiture balai is an essential part of the Tour de France. It provides support to the riders and ensures that the race runs smoothly. Its role has evolved over the years, from transporting journalists to providing support to the riders. The driver of the vehicle needs to be highly skilled and experienced to navigate the race route safely. The voiture balai may not be as famous as the riders themselves, but it plays a crucial role in the success of the Tour de France.