bruh-vay
Noun, Verb
A long-distance cycling event, usually with a time limit, in which participants attempt to complete a specified route.
Example usage: 'I'm planning on riding a 200km brevet next weekend.'
Most used in: Europe and North America.
Most used by: Long-distance cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
What Is a Brevet in Cycling?
A brevet is a long-distance cycling event that can range from 200km to 1,200km. It is a self-supported ride with no support crew or vehicles following the cyclists. Brevets are organized by randonneuring clubs, which are organizations that promote long-distance cycling events.
A brevet is also known as a randonnée or a randonnee. Randonneuring is a form of cycling that emphasizes endurance, self-sufficiency, and the completion of courses within a specified time limit. The time limit is based on the length of the course, and is usually calculated by multiplying the length of the course by a factor of 15-20 km/h. In order to finish a brevet, riders must pass through checkpoints and have their cards stamped at each checkpoint.
Randonneuring events have been around since the late 19th century, and the sport is still popular today. According to the Audax Club Parisien, the largest randonneuring club in the world, there were over 4,500 brevet events held in 2018. Brevets are popular among cyclists due to their unique challenge and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a long-distance ride.
Unraveling the Mystery of the Cyclist's Brevet
Cyclists are familiar with the term 'brevet' - a long-distance event, usually involving several checkpoints, that cyclists must complete in a certain amount of time. But where did the term 'brevet' come from and why is it used?
The term 'brevet' was first used in France in the late 19th century. The word is derived from the French word 'brevet' which means 'certificate'. The term was used to describe the certificates that the French military awarded to soldiers who successfully completed long-distance rides. These rides were usually on horseback, and were used to test the soldier's fitness and endurance.
The term was adopted by cyclists in the early 20th century. The first recorded brevet ride was a 600km event in France in 1906. This event was organised by the Audax Club Parisien (ACP) and it was the first of its kind. Since then, the popularity of brevets has grown and today they are held all over the world.
So the next time you take part in a brevet, remember that you are taking part in a tradition that has been around for more than a century.
