aw-tuh-boos
Noun
A group of cyclists riding together in a paceline.
Example usage: 'We got in the autobus and rode for hours.'
Most used in: European countries, particularly France.
Most used by: Road cyclists.
Popularity: 7 out of 10.
Comedy Value: 4 out of 10.
What is an Autobus in Cycling?
An Autobus is a large group of cyclists that rides together in a race. This type of group is usually formed in the latter stages of a race when the pace of the competition has slowed down and riders have dropped off the main pack. The Autobus can be a great way for riders to conserve energy and find companionship while still competing in the race.
The term Autobus is derived from the French phrase “autobus” which translates to “self-propelled bus”. The Autobus can sometimes be referred to as the “broom wagon” or “gruppetto”. The Autobus is typically the last group of riders to finish the race, with the number of riders varying from race to race.
Statistics show that in the 2019 Tour de France, a total of 145 riders completed the race, with the Autobus typically consisting of around 40 riders. This is significantly fewer than the main pack of riders, which can sometimes reach up to 200. This is due to the increased difficulty of the race, with riders having to face tougher terrain and longer distances.
In conclusion, the Autobus is a large group of cyclists that forms in the latter stages of a race. It is a great way for riders to conserve energy and find companionship while still competing in the race. Statistics show that the Autobus typically consists of around 40 riders, significantly fewer than the main pack.
The Origins of the Word 'Autobus' in Cycling
The word 'autobus' was first used in cycling in the early 1900s. The exact origin of the term is unclear, however the first records of its use are from France. The term is thought to have been derived from the French phrase “automobile-bus”, which was used to refer to a type of motor vehicle.
The use of the word 'autobus' in cycling was popularised in the 1920s when it was used to describe a type of bicycle race. This type of race usually involved a large number of riders taking part in a long-distance event, and the term 'autobus' was used to refer to the group of riders travelling together. In the modern day, the term is still used to refer to a group of riders travelling together, and is often used in cycling events such as road races, time trials and mountain bike events.
The term 'autobus' is still widely used in cycling today, and is used to refer to a group of cyclists riding together in a race or event. It is a term that has been in use for over a century, and is an important part of cycling culture.
