We’ve been through this before, but I guess since we’re into the statistics phase I’ve gotta point out that the average speed required to win the events has increased dramatically since Merckx and Hinault won it. So either the new bikes really DO make a huge difference (and we all know they don’t), or the level of competition has increased dramatically.

I would NEVER take anything away from Merckx - the man is one of my heros. But I’d also never expect him to be able to dominate like he did if he was racing today. It simply wouldn’t happen.

So the apples to oranges comparisons are entertaining, but really pretty meaningless in terms of trying to compare three riders from drastically different eras.

Mark Hickey Habanero Cycles <habcycles.c> Home of the $695 ti frame—Mark