The TT Podcast (The TT Podcast)

Two early season stage races blurred into one festival of aggressive bike racing and the Toms are here to dissect it. Should Roglic have let Mader win? Is Ganna human after all? Will Tom get a full house in a gripping Milan-San Remo quiz? All is revealed in this episode of The TT Podcast. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

It’s that time of the year when Belgium's cobbled North becomes the epicentre of world cycling. The Toms look back on the past week’s racing in Flanders and look forward to the Ronde with a berg-inspired quiz and a dramatic reading.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

Over two days in Hell, Alison Jackson and Mathieu van der Poel emerged as the latest riders to conquer Paris-Roubaix. Tom 1 shares his on-the-ground experience at the races, before both Toms analyse what went wrong for SD Worx and Jumbo-Visma and question the ritual of the shower shoots. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Finally, the peloton has been dealt some Belgian cobbles. The Toms discuss the weekend's solo victories at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, ask whether drones will be safe on Dutch corner, and marvel in the early-season dominance of Tadej Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard. They then turn to Strade Bianche, with Tom 2 rating the contenders for this year’s editions.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne are on the menu this week as the two Toms get stuck into the latest round of cobbles. Then it's a Strade Bianche quiz for desert. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod  

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet  

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Mathieu van der Poel walked away as the winner of Milan-San Remo, but it’s time to talk about the man who came second - Filippo Ganna. The Toms marvel at the final quartet, dissect the race-winning move and learn more about the peloton’s newest Monument contender with a quiz dedicated to Ineos Grenadiers' Italian.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The road racing at Tokyo 2020 is finished and we have a new batch of gold helmet-wearing champions. The Toms discuss how the races were won, lost and tactically muddled before tensions flare over the charm of the Fuji Speedway. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Tom 1 is in Exeter for the first of our roadside episodes at the AJ Bell Tour of Britain. After a hot day of racing in the oven of Devon, we catch up with friends of the podcast Max Stedman and Dan Bigham before chatting to GC contender Connor Swift and Movistar’s Marc Soler.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod  

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet  

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

This week the Toms sit down for a chat with Bahrain Victorious rider Fred Wright, one of the most promising young talents in the peloton right now. Fred talks about his baptism of fire at the Tour de France, his pre-Roubaix nerves and the time he cooked Tom 1 on a climb in the Peak District. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

In this special episode of The TT Podcast, the Toms are joined by Harry Tanfield, a WorldTour rider who knows a thing or two about TTs. From last-minute contract signings to stopping for a comfort break on cycling’s toughest climb, Harry takes the Toms inside the world of the pro peloton and gives his opinion on the iconic AG2R La Mondiale brown bib shorts. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod  Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The stage is set for the first grand tour of the year and it’s going to be bellissimo. That’s right - for the second time in 6 months - it’s Giro time. The Toms predict where the race will be won and lost, give their two cents for the overall and relive the folklore of the maglia nera. All that and more in this special preview of the 2021 Giro d’Italia.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

From Belgium to Sicily, the Toms discuss all the latest in the world of bike racing including premature celebrations, fractured pelvises and a positive Covid-19 case. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Wedged between the two biggest cobbled races in the calendar, the Toms look back on a wet Tour of Flanders and ahead to Paris-Roubaix. Having visited northern France last month, Tom 1 offers his intel on the state of the cobbles. Spoiler: they're not looking good.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It’s mid-March, spring has sprung, and that can only mean one thing… The first of the monuments is upon us. The Toms discuss Tadej Pogačar’s chances of taking glory at Milan-San Remo, an epic race that favours no-one and everyone at the same time. Will Pogi go on the Poggio? Or is it time for another rider to take centre stage?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

A few days on from the race's finish, the Toms sit down to discuss a history-filled edition Tour de France. They reminisce about their get-together in Turin, question whether Tadej Pogačar should have gifted any of his six stage wins (spoiler alert: he shouldn't have), and Tom 1 gives his roadside account of watching Mark Cavendish take his record-breaking 35th stage victory. All that, before naming the race's unsung hero.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The second week of the Giro has come to a close, Bernal’s riding away with the pink jersey and Bardet’s back at his best. The Toms run back through all the action in Italy with a little help from an overexcited Alberto Contador.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

Remco Evenepoel has won the Vuelta a España, the final Grand Tour of the season. The Toms go through what was a fairly routine win, discussing why Belgians don’t win three-week races and why Primož Roglič was definitely wrong. They then give their picks on who will win the individual time trials at the World Championships in Wollongong.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Ahead of the first Grand Tour of the season, the Toms take a moment to reflect on this year's Spring Classics and pick out their favourite races of the season so far. There's time for a game of 'Who Came Second?' before finally, a brief look ahead to the Giro d'Italia, and the narratives to look out for in Italy. Will Tadej Pogačar storm his way to the pink jersey? Or will a certain Colombian pip him to it for a 10-year anniversary win? Let's be real, probably the former.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

This week the Toms put their credibility on the line by offering their three boldest predictions for the 2021 cycling season. Which riders will blossom in the spring classics? Who will win two rainbow jerseys this year? Who will claim their first grand tour? 

Featuring words from @lewaffleur, @PusherOfPedals & @QuicklinkPod. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The first two rainbow jerseys went to Ellen van Dijk and Tobias Foss in Wollongong. The Toms discuss the big surprises from the elite individual time trials before turning their attention to the weekend's road races. Is the course a bit dull? Will the swooping birds wreak havoc? Can Romain Bardet pull off the unthinkable? 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

There's plenty to discuss as we head into the first rest day of this year's Giro d'Italia. The Toms dissect Remco Evenepoel's time trial dominance, explain the art of Mark Cavendish's crashing technique and cast predictions on who will be in the pink jersey come the second week.

Note: This episode was recorded before it was announced that Remco Evenepoel had pulled out of the race with Covid.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Hell isn't hot and fiery... It’s cobbled, muddy and finishes in a velodrome. The Toms are talking Paris-Roubaix this week after an historic win for Lizzie Deignan in the first women’s edition of the monument. They then move on to the men’s race where the mud took centre stage.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The first rest day is upon us. Roglic is in red but there's much to discuss. Is Jakobsen back to his best? Who should be Bahrain Victorious's leader? And would Adam Yates make a good companion for a night out in Benidorm? All is answered in the first rest day round-up of the 2021 Vuelta a España.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

After a brutal day out on the cobbles, it was Mathieu van der Poel and Lotte Kopecky who took the glory at the Tour of Flanders. The Toms analyse the two action-packed races, discussing a long-awaited Belgian victory and how Tadej Pogačar came fourth in a two-up sprint.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The Toms assemble to sing the praises of their three standout riders from the first batch of racing. Is #CavToTheTour on? Is Nairo Quintana entering his golden years? and which French sprinter is finally getting the victories he deserves?

Includes coverage of Tour de la Provence, Tour des Alpes-Maritimes et du Var, Volta ao Algarve, Volta Comunitat Valenciana Fémines, UAE Tour, Tour of Oman and more.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Two Toms become three as we welcome our first guest to the podcast. Thomas, a former anti-doping official on the Tour de France, takes us behind the scenes of sample collecting and shares stories of the moments he spent waiting for famous riders to relieve themselves. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

From Roubaix to the streets of Essex, the women's peloton is centre stage this week. Tom 1 spent two days at the AJ Bell Women's Tour and brings you all the reactions from the race including Demi Vollering's TT surprise and Lizzie Deignan's blistered palms. Finally, Rebecca Charlton sits down for a chat about the significance of the Women's Tour and her experiences in the sport. 

This episode features interviews with Demi Vollering, Lorena Wiebes, Lizzie Deignan, Joss Lowden & Rebecca Charlton. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It's almost July and that can only mean one thing... It's Tour de France time. The Toms sit down to discuss the riders targeting the yellow jersey, the race's notable absentees and all the drama we can expect from the route. There's a riveting head-to-head quiz and a simple explanation as to why a certain Frenchman will prevail atop Alpe d'Huez on Bastille Day. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 Also featuring Tibopino by Mayo Jaune. 

The curtains have closed on one of the toughest Grand Tours in recent memory. The Toms discuss the sharp end of this year’s Giro d’Italia, including Mark Cavendish’s retirement, the drama of a mountaintop time trial and Primož Roglič’s home advantage. There's also a race quiz, and Tom 2 tells of his experience on the ground for stage 15 in Bergamo, as he phones in from his new home in Peru.   Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

After almost 300km of tranquil racing, the finale of Milan-San Remo did not disappoint. The Toms analyse Matej Mohorič’s daredevil descent of the Poggio, where he dropped not only his rivals but his seat post too. They then discuss Elisa Balsamo’s emphatic win at Trofeo Alfredo Binda and the rider she’ll need to beat to become the best sprinter in the women’s peloton. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The world champion has dominated the headlines over the past month – crashing, winning, finishing third at Milan-San Remo and signing up for his debut Paris-Roubaix. The Toms look back on all the cycling in March, asking whether the Classics have become more dangerous, if Lorena Wiebes deserves more credit as one of the all-time greats, and if Matthew Brennan's nickname really is the 'Binman' (spoiler: it's not). They then cast their predictions for the upcoming cobbled Monuments – the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix – where Tom 2 believes Mathieu van der Poel will fire blanks.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The curtains have closed on the 2022 cycling season so it’s time to pick the best GC leader, domestique, sprinter and classics rider of the year. The Toms fall out about what constitutes an ‘unsung hero’, whittle down the season's best races and ask themselves what on earth happened to Mathieu van der Poel after the Giro d'Italia. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It's quiz time. The Toms go head-to-head in a painstakingly researched quiz of the 2023 road cycling season. Is Arnaud de Lie actually one of the best riders in the world? Which Grand Tour climbed the highest? And why can we never remember who came second?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

This week the Toms chew over the coronavirus-stricken Giro and the likelihood of it reaching Milan before previewing the third and final grand tour of the season, the Vuelta a España.  

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Nine stages in to this year’s Tour de France and the usual suspect is wearing the yellow jersey. With Tom 1 now on the ground in the Alps, the Toms run through the drama so far at the race, disagreeing about the safety of cobbles and, once again, manifesting a Thibaut Pinot win on Alpe d’Huez.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It’s been a while. The Toms return after a 10-week absence to reminisce about the biggest races in cycling over the summer. They chose their WTF moment, as well as their hero, villain and star rider. There’s even time for a lengthy digression on Bryan Coquard.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The Toms are back with some more pro cycling tomfoolery as they look back on a riveting week of racing at La Vuelta. After a glass is raised to Lancashire born Hugh Carthy, the Toms pay homage to the third most visited place in Tour de France history, the Pyrenean city of Pau.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

It’s almost time for the first Grand Tour of the season... The Giro d'Italia. This week, the Toms take a look at the route, the contenders and the inevitability of Mathieu van der Poel winning the first stage of the race. There’s some Vivaldi to get the blood pumping and a world first in the TT Podcast quiz as we get ready for Friday's partenza in Budapest. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It's an Italian special this week as the Toms look back at the bike racing in Imola and cast their eyes forwards to the second Grand Tour of the year, the Giro d'Italia. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

After a decent success rate last year, the Toms are back gazing into the crystal ball with some bold predictions for 2025. Among the clairvoyance, a French pocket rocket is slated for big success, the stars align for a historic one-two at the Giro d'Italia, and Lotte Kopecky is tipped to achieve greatness. Plus, might we see a British Monument winner this April? Tom 1 thinks so, and is even happy to go as far as calling the rider-race combo he envisages in his mind.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

So it turns out there are now illegal ways to sit on a bike?

This week, the Toms discuss the new UCI rules before giving their two cents on the Étoile de Bessèges and the upcoming Tour de la Provence, two of France's finest amuse-bouche mini stage races.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

We’re nine stages into the Giro d’Italia and the cream is starting to rise to the top. The Toms talk about Arnaud Démare’s exploits in the sprints, Juanpe López’s favourite film and the GC chances of everyone’s favourite Frenchman.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

With one week to go in this year’s Giro d’Italia, the Toms take a look back at all the action so far. Biniam Girmay has made history, Romain Bardet has left our hearts aching and Simon Philip Yates has unveiled his triumphant chest hair. The maglia rosa might well belong to Richard Carapaz on rest day two, but will he hold it to the line in Verona?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The biggest three weeks of the calendar have arrived. It's time for the Tour de France. As they prepare to head out to Italy for the Grand Départ, the Toms discuss the key stages, make their GC picks, and envisage the scene of Mark Cavendish breaking the all-time stage win record. Spoiler alert: He's going to do it and then some.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

At this year’s Ardennes Classics, Demi Vollering signed a clean sweep of victories, winning Amstel Gold, Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Tadej Pogačar very almost did the same. The Toms go back over the races, critiquing the taste of a certain sponsor’s lager and the fashion choices of Remco Evenepoel.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

There will be a Mark Cavendish-shaped hole in the peloton this season for the first time in two decades. In homage to the sprint legend, the Toms reminisce with an in-depth dive into his career, with insight from two of his former leadout men: Mark Renshaw and Michael Mørkøv. Tom 2 is put through his paces in a Mastermind-style Cav quiz, before the legacy of the Tour de France stage win record holder is discussed. Is he really the cycling GOAT, as Virgil van Dijk dubbed him?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Image: Hugo LUC via Wikimedia Commons

The Toms welcome the reigning British road race champion Pfeiffer Georgi to the podcast to discuss all things cobbles, crashes and chasing glory at Nationals. Pfeiffer enjoyed a breakthrough season with Team DSM in 2021 and has her sights set on making 2022 even more successful.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod  Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet  License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The first few months of the year are meant to be calm in the cycling world, but we’ve had cancelled races, dramatic wrong turns, and some shock winners at big races. The Toms dissect the breakaway's success at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, before pondering the prospect of Tadej Pogačar riding Paris-Roubaix, and the positive trend of riders taking a stance for their own safety. They then look ahead to this weekend's Strade Bianche, and give their rogue predictions for who could upset the two favourites. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

With news coming out of Paris of a potential Champs-Élysées revamp, the final stage of the Tour de France may be forced into an update. This week, the Toms chat urban planning and put forward the case for a chaotic final day elimination race. Winner takes all.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod    Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet   License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

It’s the second rest day of the Vuelta a España and the Toms are popping the champagne for Romain Bardet. Well, one of them is. They talk punishing gradients, Córdoba's rich history and the inevitability of Primoz Roglic before an important announcement is made. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod  Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet  License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

A new road season is upon us, and with it comes the chance to look like fools with some bold predictions. The Toms mull over the big-name signings of 2023, questioning whether Astana Qazaqstan is the right fit for Mark Cavendish and if SD Worx are now the complete package. Attention then turns to the predictions. Has Annemiek van Vleuten had her time in the spotlight? Will Primož Roglič look pretty in pink? And is it finally time a British man won a Monument?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Fresh from a stellar performance at the Tour of Slovenia, Ribble Weldtite rider James Shaw joins the Toms to discuss what it’s like racing Tadej Pogacar, his hopes for the Tour of Britain and how he almost packed it all in. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

After a week of racing on UK roads, the Women’s Tour came to a dramatic close in Oxford with Elisa Longo Borghini winning the yellow jersey by just one second ahead of Grace Brown. Tom 1 is joined by cycling journalist Tilda Price to discuss sprinting tactics, crafty bonus seconds and next month’s main event - the Tour de France Femmes. This episode includes race reaction from Clara Copponi (FDJ Nouvelle-Aquitaine Futuroscope), Lorena Wiebes (Team DSM) and Elisa Longo Borghini (Trek-Segafredo). Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

For one weekend only, the Flemish city of Leuven turned into the epicentre of world cycling and Tom 1 was there to soak it all up. In this episode, the Toms go back over the talking points of this year’s world championships, from Zoe Backstedt’s swagger to Dutch misfortune and the relentless French attacks.

This episode contains audiodiaries from the road races as well as mixed zone interviews with Lewis Askey, Zoe Backstedt, Lizzie Deignan, Anna van der Breggen, Annemiek van Vleuten, Tom Pidcock & Matej Mohoric.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It might be eight months out, but it’s time to get excited about the 2023 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. The Toms pour over the newly unveiled race routes, honing in on a dormant lava dome, Mark Cavendish’s chances of number 35 and the mighty Tourmalet. Tom 2 then gives a history lesson on former race director Jacques Goddet and his troubled role in French history.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

This week the Toms welcome Lewis Askey to the podcast. At just 20 years old, Askey has found a home a French team Groupama-FDJ and has already ridden some of the biggest races on the calendar. He told the Toms about his gruesome Paris-Roubaix injury, the roar of Belgian cycling fans and the two races he'd love to win.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

After a series of disasters at TT Podcast HQ - a broken face for Tom 1 and a burnt laptop for Tom 2 - we're back to talk about the Italian Spring Classics. Strade Bianche offered two distinct races, both of which ended with two serial winners on the top step. What will San Remo bring? Who knows, we'd rather talk about the town's recent song contest.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

After four years, the Toms sit down to reminisce and celebrate their 100th episode of the podcast. Attention then turns to the review of the season, with the best rider, ride and moment crowned, and Tom 1 revealing the two races that made him cry in 2024. Finally, there are changes afoot for 2025.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It’s time for the first Monument of the season, Milan-San Remo, and one half of the podcast is on the ground to soak it up live. The Toms hark back to the snow-afflicted 2013 edition of the race, before the quiz returns and they both agree on which rider will win (hint: his name doesn’t contain the word ‘van’). Still, could Bryan Coquard spring a surprise?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The Toms turn to Italy this week as they look back on an explosive Strade Bianche and look forward to Tirreno Adriatico. Tactics are assessed, poor predictions are confronted and the big questions are answered… Which kitchen appliances is Mathieu van der Poel more powerful than?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Toms dissect the latest rider transfers and offer their thoughts on what it will mean for racing in 2022. Can Peter Sagan get back to winning ways at the Tour de France? Have SD Worx filled their Anna van der Breggen-sized hole? And didn't Esteban Chaves always ride for EF? 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

10 minutes, well, almost 10 minutes, was the gap Tadej Pogačar stretched out when he won the pink jersey at this year's Giro d'Italia. The Toms sit down to discuss the "generational" victory, Pogačar's secret power data, and the wider importance of time trials at Grand Tours. There's also a bold prediction for what the Slovenian will achieve in 2025, and an ode to the unsung heroes of the Giro, including a certain French breakaway merchant. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The Toms are united in the North East at the AJ Bell Tour of Britain. This special episode contains roadside reactions, audio diaries and interviews with stage winners, race leaders and directeur sportifs from stage six at the Angel of the North and stage seven in Edinburgh.

This episode features the following riders: James Shaw, Thomas Mein, Mark Donovan, Wout van Aert, Yves Lampaert, Ethan Hayter, Jacob Scott and Colin Sturgess.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The cycling season's over but the Toms have still got some talking to do. After a recap of the final week of La Vuelta, the Toms pick their standout GC rider, domestiques, sprinter and classics rider of the past year's racing. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In the first ever episode of The TT Podcast, the Toms dissect Tadej Pogacar's victory in the 2020 Tour de France and make some predictions for the upcoming World Championships in Imola.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Every year the Ardennes provide nail-biting races and this year was no different. Amstel Gold was decided by a hair’s breadth, Anna van der Breggen made it seven in a row at Flèche Wallonne and Liège played host to two sublime sprints. All that and a little Romandie preview on this week’s TT Podcast.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

It’s Team of the Season time and there are some big disagreements at TT Podcast HQ. In this episode, the Toms name their standout GC rider, sprinter, domestiques and classics hunter as well as their favourite races of the past year. They also sing for their unsung heroes.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It was supposed to be a standard rest day recap in our Tour de France coverage, but Cav’s been up to his old antics and we’ve decided to tear up the script. Join the Toms as they journey through the highs and lows of Mark Cavendish’s Tour career and deep dive into the now equalled stage win record. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

A man who hadn’t won a bike race in three years has just won two in a row. The Toms hail Mark Cavendish’s return to form at the Tour of Turkey and look forward to the trio of races that make up the Ardennes classics.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

It’s cobbles galore on the cycling calendar right now. The Toms discuss Biniam Girmay’s historic win at Gent-Wevelgem before going on to preview the Ronde. Will Mathieu van der Poel emerge victorious again or could it be time for a Belgian to break the curse?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

This week the Toms look over another Monument upset as Kasper Asgreen wins the Ronde van Vlandereen. Tributes are then paid to Mark Cavendish’s recent form and we learn about the Tour of the Basque Country through the medium of a quiz.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

This week the Toms bid arrivederci to the Giro d'Italia and look over some of the race's highs and lows, including an impressive victory for Tao Geoghegan Hart and some dodgy jacket changes.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

Of the 176 riders that took the start line at the Tour de France this year, only one was black. 

This week the Toms are joined by Myles Warwood, a cycling writer and blogger better known as Pusher of Pedals, to discuss the lack of diversity in the sport and how we can address the imbalance. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

For pro cyclists, the New Year means one thing... New kit. In the first episode of 2021, the Toms ponder over the jerseys that will be on display in the peloton this year and select their models for a hypothetical UCI catwalk. Finally, Tom's knowledge of Cipollini skinsuits and AG2R stage wins is put to the test.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod   Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet  License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Toms sit down to discuss Strade Bianche and the mayhem kicked up by the glorious gravel roads of Tuscany. Here’s all the reaction to Lotte Kopecky’s racing masterclass, Tadej Pogačar’s long-range attack and the news that the Tour de France is coming to Netflix.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The Vuelta a España is back with a route that puts the pain in Spain. In this preview of the final grand tour of the year, The Toms go head-to-head in a quiz before turning to the menu of mountains and the contenders who’ll have to tackle them. It’s going to be a belter.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet 

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Flamenco Music: Michael Laucke, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

It’s here. It’s finally here. The Tour de France is upon us. Three weeks of the most gruelling GC battles on the biggest stage cycling has to offer. In this preview episode, the Toms pick their warriors and highlight where the decisive moments will come in the first week.

Intro: Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Outro: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Fresh out of Flanders, the Toms analyse a gripping showdown between Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert at the Ronde van Vlaanderen before one of them issues an apology for a hasty Vuelta prediction.   

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod 

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

There are rainbow bands up for grabs in Flanders. Ganna's got his, Van Dijk's got hers back and it's still all to play for on the road. The Toms go back over the ITT action and shine the spotlight on the young Russian prodigy Alena Ivanchenko before casting their predictions for the road races. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Elinor Barker made her Olympic debut in Rio in 2016 and left with a gold medal and a new world record. Since then, she’s taken multiple British, European and World Track Championship titles and now has her sights firmly set on the games in Tokyo. The Toms sat down with Elinor to discuss what goes through your mind in a team pursuit, showcasing women in cycling and riding for the country’s coolest road team, Tekkerz. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

In the end, it was Annemiek van Vleuten who took home the yellow jersey at the first Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift, proving that hard work does pay off and age is but a number. The Toms discuss Dutch dominance and Marianne Vos’s legacy, while Tom 2 is put through his paces in a tough five-question quiz. We also hear from Pfeiffer Georgi, Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig and Joss Lowden at the first stage in Paris.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

On the bill this Sunday is De Ronde, one of the most prized Monuments there is. The Toms rattle through the route, delve into the history of the Paterberg, and pick out a handful of riders who might challenge the rainbow-clad favourites, Mathieu van der Poel and Lotte Kopecky. Plus, Tom 1 foreshadows a major crash.

Note: This episode was recorded before Wout van Aert crashed out of Dwars door Vlaanderen and broke half the bones in his body.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Aerodynamics expert Dan Bigham returns to the podcast with a new job title and a host of new innovations to discuss. He tells the Toms about his role at Ineos Grenadiers, conquering the British hour record and the watt-saving measures that made him a cycling news sensation in 2021.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It’s time for the first Grand Tour of the year, the Giro d’Italia. From Julius Cesar to Saint Bernard dogs and the Orient Express, Tom 2 takes us on an exhaustive historical tour of this year’s route, before the contenders’ chances are weighed up. Will Mark Cavendish get his first win of the season? Not unless he likes climbing. 

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Strade Bianche never disappoints, does it? In the race's latest edition, we saw Demi Vollering and Lotte Kopecky lock horns, and another spectacular solo win for Tom Pidcock. The Toms analyse both of Saturday's races, asking whether there might be a bitter aftertaste at SD Worx and if Pidcock has Jumbo-Visma to thank for his victory.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

In fair Verona, it was Jai Hindley who became the new King of Italy. The Toms talk through the final week of the Giro d’Italia, where the breakaway ruled supreme and Bora-Hansgrohe showed their class. We also hear about Tom 1’s day out at the RideLondon Classique, the latest instalment of this year’s Women’s WorldTour.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It’s the first rest day of the Giro and the two Toms have a lot to discuss. Are the sprints too dicey? Is it disrespectful to abandon a grand tour early? Will Bernal go all the way? All that plus talk of broken collarbones and the mind-blowing stats on Alessandro Pettachi’s 2003 season.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0z

The Toms delve deep into the latest WorldTour transfers, Romain Bardet's tipped for a big classics win and the rider to watch for 2021 is chosen. Step forward, Thomas Champion.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

After an absence spanning decades, a women’s Tour de France is back on the calendar. The Toms preview the 2022 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, stumbling over French place names and marvelling in the riches of Champagne country. Will anyone beat Lorena Wiebes to the first yellow jersey in Paris? And can anyone stop Annemiek van Vleuten taking it home on the Super Planche des Belles Filles?

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

After a brief absence, the Toms are back to discuss the first week of the final Grand Tour of the season. What does Fred Wright need to do to win? Does the race feel a little flat? And will Remco Evenepoel still have the red jersey in Madrid? All is answered in this first Vuelta a España episode of the year. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

It’s time for the big one - the one from the Netflix documentary - the Tour de France. The Toms run over the key stages of the race route, weigh up the battle for third place, and ask whether Mark Cavendish will break the all-time stage win record, before Tom 1 readies himself for the long drive to Bilbao.  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

There’s no better way to kick off 2024 than by putting our reputations on the line with some wild predictions for the upcoming road season. It's three shouts from Tom 1, three from Tom 2, and a lot of questions about each other's reasoning. Whisper it quietly, but could this be the year Visma-Lease a Bike don't win a Grand Tour? Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

We’ve had crashes, tears and some career-defining rides in the first 9 stages of this year’s Tour de France. Join the Toms as they offer their insight and look ahead to the most feared mountain in the sport, Mont Ventoux.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Wedged in between the two biggest cobbled races on the calendar, the Toms sit down to discuss what's been happening in the world of cycling, and what's to come. Tune in for a breakdown of Tadej Pogačar's and Lotte Kopecky's heroics at the Tour of Flanders, some bold predictions for this year's Paris-Roubaix, and a quick-fire quiz on the Hell of the North. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpetLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Here it is, the cycling world's official Team of the Season. The Toms pick 2023's best GC leader, sprinter, domestique and classics rider from both the men's and women's pelotons. They then sing the praises of a few unsung heroes, and award the race of the year.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

Tom 2 dials in from Italy to discuss the weekend’s road races at the World Championships. It was trademark wins for Annemiek van Vleuten and Remco Evenepoel, who both gave viewers masterclasses in bike racing. The Toms go on to ask if Wout van Aert will one day win the Worlds and whether Luke Rowe has ever actually finished the elite road race.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

The Toms are back to regular programming this week to discuss the opening race of this year’s WorldTour calendar, the UAE Tour. Only three stages in and it’s clear that the usual suspects are up to their usual antics in the desert dunes of the gulf. Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod  Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet  License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This week the Toms welcome record-breaking track and TT specialist Dan Bigham to the podcast. Co-founder of the gold medal winning track team HUUB Wattbike, Dan is driven by a passion for aerodynamics and marginal gains. In this 40 minute special episode, he gives us the lowdown on saving watts, the records he has in his sights and that Tour de France time trial up La Planche des Belles Filles.

Dan’s book, Start at the End, is out in May 2021.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Forget the Hommes, the second edition of the Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift will soon be upon us. The Toms discuss the wonders of Michelin-based Clermont-Ferrand and Tom 2’s beloved Pau, before moving onto the contenders for the GC and sprints. Will Annemiek van Vleuten complete the treble? And who will win the battle between Lorena Wiebes and Charlotte Kool?  Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

After a gruelling three-week lap of France, Jonas Vingegaard and his Jumbo-Visma teammates have come away with the yellow jersey. The Toms discuss the dominance of Wout van Aert, L’Équipe’s brutal team ratings and whether this year’s Tour de France is the greatest in living memory. Tom 1 also catches up with Bahrain-Victorious rider Fred Wright on the Champs-Élysées in Paris.

Music: Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0