KAH-buhl
Noun
Cobble: A paved surface of cobblestones
Example usage: The cobbled street was difficult to navigate on a road bike.
Most used in: European countries such as France, Italy and the Netherlands.
Most used by: Road cyclists who frequent cobbled streets.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Pavé, Rouleur, Strade Bianche, Sett,
What is Cycling Cobble?
Cobble, also known as a pavé, is a cycling term that is used to describe a section of road that is made up of large, irregularly shaped stones. This type of terrain is commonly found in Europe, particularly in Belgium and France, where it is used for the famous Spring Classics such as the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix. It is also used in some road cycling events in the United States and Canada.
Cycling cobble is often characterized by its bumpy and uneven surface, which can be difficult for cyclists to navigate. It can also be slippery and dangerous in wet conditions, as the stones can be very slippery when wet. This makes it a challenging terrain to ride on, and it is often a key factor in deciding the winner of a race.
Cobble is an iconic feature of cycling, and is a major part of the sport's history. It is estimated that around 10% of the roads in Belgium and France are made up of cobble, and these roads have become a part of cycling culture and folklore. The Tour of Flanders, for example, features more than 20 kilometers of cobble, and is considered one of the most difficult one-day races in the world.
Cobble is an important feature of cycling and is part of the unique culture and history of the sport. While it can be a challenging terrain to ride on, it is also a key part of what makes cycling such an exciting and thrilling experience.
The History of the Word 'Cobble' in Cycling
The word 'cobble' has been used in cycling since around the early 1900s. It is often used to describe a section of a road that is paved with cobblestones or large, irregularly shaped stones. The cobbles are usually laid down in a pattern and are usually quite rough and bumpy. This type of terrain is particularly difficult to ride on, and as such, cobbles have become an iconic feature of many cycling races.
The origin of the term 'cobble' is thought to come from the French word 'cobblier', which means 'to cobble'. It is believed that the term was first used in the northern parts of France, Belgium, and England in the early 1900s, when cobblestone roads were first being used in cycling races. The term has since spread to other parts of the world, and is widely used by cyclists in many countries.
Cobbles are a feature of many classic cycling races, such as the Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, and the Tour of the Basque Country. As such, they have become symbolic of the sport, and are often associated with the most challenging and grueling races. For many cyclists, conquering the cobbles is a sign of strength, endurance, and determination.
