The Best Cyclists of All Time

Last Updated on September 9, 2023 by Vinson Lozano

In this article, let’s embark on a journey through time to celebrate the remarkable achievements and talents of the greatest cyclists to have ever graced the sport.

From legendary figures who dominated the early days of cycling to modern-day superstars who continue to push the boundaries of human performance, we will explore the lives, accomplishments, and enduring legacies of the best cyclists of all time.

Through their unwavering dedication, sheer determination, and awe-inspiring skills, these extraordinary individuals have captured the hearts and minds of fans worldwide, inspiring generations of aspiring cyclists to pursue their own dreams. Join us as we pay homage to these incredible athletes, recounting their triumphs on the saddle and the impact they’ve had on the sport as a whole.

So, fasten your helmets, adjust your pedals, and get ready to be inspired by the incredible stories of the cycling legends who have left an indelible mark on history.

Definition of cycling

Cycling, to you, might be a leisure activity, a form of exercise, or even a mode of transport. However, in the world of sports, it refers to the use of bicycles for racing. There are various types of races such as road racing, track cycling, and mountain bike racing. Each one requires different skills and strengths, making the world of cycling diverse and exciting.

Historical significance of cycling

Cycling has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It started as a means of transport before evolving into a competitive sport. The first recorded race took place in Paris in 1868. Since then, it has grown in popularity and is now a major part of the Olympic Games.

Now that you have an understanding of what cycling is and its historical significance, let’s talk about some of the best cyclists of all time.

Eddy Merckx, often referred to as “The Cannibal”, is widely regarded as the greatest cyclist ever. He dominated the sport in the 1960s and 1970s, winning five Tour de France titles and numerous other accolades.

Lance Armstrong, despite his controversial career due to doping allegations, won the Tour de France seven consecutive times – a feat that remains unmatched.

Miguel Indurain is another notable cyclist who won five consecutive Tour de France titles in the 1990s.

Here’s a table summarizing these cyclists:

These cyclists have left an indelible mark on the sport with their remarkable achievements and contributions.

Eddy Merckx

Imagine yourself in the world of professional cycling, where the stakes are high and the competition fierce. One name that stands out in this realm is Eddy Merckx, a legend whose impact on the sport remains unparalleled.

Biography and career highlights

Born on June 17, 1945, in Meensel-Kiezegem, Belgium, Eddy Merckx is often hailed as the most successful cyclist of all time. His career spanned from 1961 to 1978, during which he won an astounding number of races and set numerous records.

Merckx’s love for cycling began at a young age, and he quickly rose through the ranks due to his exceptional talent and determination. He turned professional in 1965 and soon established himself as a dominant force in the world of cycling.

Major achievements and records

Merckx’s achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. He won the Tour de France five times, a record he shares with four other cyclists. He also holds the record for the most stage wins in the Tour de France, with an impressive 34 victories.

In addition to his Tour de France success, Merckx also won the Giro d’Italia five times and secured victory in the Vuelta a España once. This makes him one of only three riders to have won all three Grand Tours more than once.

Merckx didn’t just excel in stage races; he was also a formidable one-day racer. He won all five Monuments of Cycling – Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and the Giro di Lombardia – at least twice.

In total, Eddy Merckx won an astonishing 525 races during his professional career, a record that still stands today. His relentless drive for victory earned him the nickname “The Cannibal,” a testament to his insatiable appetite for success.

With such an illustrious career, it’s no wonder Eddy Merckx is widely regarded as one of the best cyclists of all time.

Fausto Coppi

You may be a cycling enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the sport, either way, you can’t talk about cycling without mentioning the legendary Fausto Coppi.

Biography and career highlights

Born in 1919 in Piedmont, Italy, Fausto Coppi’s cycling journey began at a young age. He quickly rose to fame due to his exceptional talent and dedication. His career was marked by numerous victories, including two Tour de France wins and five Giro d’Italia titles. He was also the first cyclist to win both tours in the same year, a feat he accomplished twice. His incredible performances earned him the nickname “Il Campionissimo” or “The Champion of Champions”.

Contributions to the sport

Beyond his victories, Coppi’s contributions to cycling are immense. He revolutionized the sport with his innovative training methods and his approach to racing. He was known for his long solo breakaways, a strategy that often left his competitors struggling to catch up.

In addition, Coppi played a significant role in popularizing cycling globally. His rivalry with Gino Bartali, another Italian cycling legend, drew international attention to the sport. Their intense competition captivated audiences worldwide and significantly increased the popularity of professional cycling.

To sum it up:

In conclusion, Fausto Coppi’s impact on cycling extends beyond his impressive list of victories. His contributions have shaped the sport as we know it today and his legacy continues to inspire cyclists around the world.

Miguel Indurain

You might have heard of Miguel Indurain, a name that resonates with the history of cycling. His accomplishments in the world of professional cycling are nothing short of legendary. Born on July 16, 1964, in Villava, Spain, Indurain’s journey to becoming one of the greatest cyclists of all time started at a young age.

Biography and career highlights

Indurain’s professional career began in 1984 when he joined the Reynolds team. He soon made a name for himself as a promising cyclist, but it wasn’t until the 1991 Tour de France that he truly shone. Indurain won five consecutive Tours de France from 1991 to 1995, a record he shares with Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, and Lance Armstrong.

Dominance in time trials and the Tour de France

Time trials were Indurain’s specialty. His physical strength and endurance enabled him to excel in these “races against the clock.” This ability was crucial in securing his five Tour de France victories. Moreover, Indurain is the only cyclist to have won the Tour de France and the World Time Trial Championship in the same year (1995).

Indurain’s dominance extended beyond the Tour de France. He also won the Giro d’Italia twice (1992 and 1993), making him one of only seven cyclists to have won the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia in the same year.

In summary, Miguel Indurain’s legacy as one of the best cyclists of all time is well-deserved. His achievements in time trials and grand tours are a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination.

Here is a table summarizing his career highlights:

Jacques Anquetil

You may be a cycling enthusiast, or perhaps you’re just starting to explore this exciting sport. Either way, you can’t overlook the legendary cyclists who have left their mark on the world of cycling. One such figure is Jacques Anquetil, a name synonymous with cycling greatness.

Biography and career highlights

Born in 1934 in France, Jacques Anquetil’s passion for cycling took root at a young age. He turned professional in 1953, and his career quickly skyrocketed. His impressive track record includes victories in the Grand Tours, including the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España. But it was his performance in the Tour de France that truly set him apart.

First cyclist to win the Tour de France five times

Anquetil’s most remarkable achievement was becoming the first cyclist to win the Tour de France five times. His victories in 1957 and then four consecutive wins from 1961 to 1964 were record-breaking feats that cemented his status as one of the greatest cyclists of all time.

His strategic approach to racing, coupled with an extraordinary ability to maintain high speeds over long distances, made him an unbeatable force during his era. His time-trialing prowess earned him the nickname “Monsieur Chrono”.

Here’s a brief summary of Jacques Anquetil’s career highlights:

So, whether you’re an aspiring cyclist or just an admirer of the sport, remember that legends like Jacques Anquetil have paved the way for modern cycling. They’ve shown what’s possible with determination, strategy, and a love for the ride.

Bernard Hinault

Meet Bernard Hinault, a name that echoes through the annals of cycling history. Known as “The Badger” for his tenacity and aggressive racing style, Hinault is a French former professional cyclist. His career spanned from 1975 to 1986, a period in which he cemented his legacy as one of the greatest cyclists of all time.

Biography and career highlights

Born in 1954, Hinault started his professional cycling career at the age of 21. He quickly rose to prominence, demonstrating exceptional talent and an indomitable will to win. His competitive spirit was evident in every race, earning him the nickname “The Badger.” He won his first Tour de France in 1978, just three years into his professional career.

Feats in Grand Tours and classics

Hinault’s record speaks volumes about his prowess on the saddle. He is one of only seven cyclists to have won all three Grand Tours – the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España. What’s more impressive is that he didn’t just win them once; he won the Tour de France five times, the Giro d’Italia three times, and the Vuelta a España twice!

In addition to his Grand Tour victories, Hinault also claimed victory in several classic races. These include Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and La Flèche Wallonne.

Here’s a quick look at some of Hinault’s career highlights:

Hinault’s achievements are a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination. His impact on the sport is undeniable and continues to inspire cyclists around the world.

Christopher Froome

You must have heard of Christopher Froome, one of the greatest cyclists of all time. Born in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1985, Froome moved to South Africa as a teenager for his education and started his professional cycling career in 2007. He is a four-time winner of the Tour de France and has also won other Grand Tours including the Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a España.

Biography and career highlights

Froome’s journey in professional cycling began with Team Konica Minolta. His breakthrough came when he finished second overall at the 2011 Vuelta a España. This performance caught the attention of Team Sky, where he spent most of his successful career.

His career highlights include winning the Tour de France four times (2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017), becoming one of only seven riders to win this prestigious race three times consecutively. He also won the Giro d’Italia in 2018 and the Vuelta a España twice (2011 and 2017), making him one of only seven riders who have won all three Grand Tours.

Success in the Tour de France

Froome’s success in the Tour de France is remarkable. His first victory came in 2013 when he led Team Sky to victory. He repeated this feat in 2015, 2016, and 2017, joining an elite group of cyclists who have won this race four times.

His aggressive riding style, combined with his exceptional climbing and time-trialling abilities, have made him a dominant force in this race. His performances have left an indelible mark on the sport of cycling and cemented his status as one of the best cyclists of all time.

Here’s a snapshot of Froome’s achievements:

Lance Armstrong

Immerse yourself in the world of professional cycling, and one name you’re likely to hear is Lance Armstrong. This American cyclist, born in 1971, has left an indelible mark on the sport.

Biography and career highlights

Lance Armstrong’s journey into the world of cycling began in Plano, Texas. His talent was evident from a young age, and by 1991, he was already a professional cyclist. Armstrong’s career took off when he won the World Road Race Championship in 1993. His crowning glory came when he won the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005.

Controversies and subsequent downfall

However, Armstrong’s illustrious career wasn’t without controversy. In 2012, evidence of his involvement in what the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) described as “the most sophisticated, professionalized and successful doping program that sport has ever seen” came to light. Consequently, Armstrong was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles and banned from professional cycling for life.

Despite the controversies surrounding him, Armstrong’s impact on the sport of cycling is undeniable. He brought unprecedented attention to the sport and inspired many with his comeback from a life-threatening illness.

Here is a quick summary of Armstrong’s career:

Remember, while Armstrong’s story is fraught with controversy, it also serves as a reminder of the highs and lows that can come with intense competition in sports.

Conclusion

As an avid cycling enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of some of the greats who have graced the sport. The best cyclists of all time have not only left their mark with their extraordinary performances but also significantly impacted the sport itself.

Comparison of the best cyclists of all time

Eddy Merckx, a Belgian former professional road and track bicycle racer, is often hailed as the greatest cyclist of all time. His impressive record includes five victories in the Tour de France, five in the Giro d’Italia, and a whopping 19 Monument victories.

Lance Armstrong, despite his controversial career, was a dominant force in cycling for many years. He won the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005, although these titles were later stripped due to doping violations.

Miguel Indurain, a Spanish former professional cyclist, is also worth noting. He won five consecutive Tours de France from 1991 to 1995, a feat only achieved by four riders in history.

Impact on the sport of cycling

These cyclists have not only set records but also influenced the sport of cycling in significant ways. Their intense training regimes, competitive spirit, and innovative strategies have raised the bar for what is possible in cycling. They’ve inspired countless others to take up the sport and strive for greatness. The legacy they’ve left behind continues to shape the world of cycling today.