Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

pell-uh-tawn/bunch

Noun

A group of cyclists riding close together in a race

Example usage: The peloton was moving so quickly, no one could break away.

Most used in: Road racing and other cycling events.

Most used by: Professional and competitive cyclists.

Popularity: 8 out of 10

Comedy Value: 2 out of 10

Also see: Paceline, Peloton, Gruppetto, Echelon,

What is the Cycling Term 'Peloton/Bunch'?

The term 'Peloton/Bunch' is used in cycling to describe the main group of riders in a race. It is sometimes referred to as the 'pack' or the 'field'. The peloton is typically made up of around 80-100 riders and is usually the largest group in a race. It is also the fastest group, as the riders work together to create a slipstream effect, reducing wind resistance and allowing them to ride at higher speeds.

The peloton is typically led by a small group of riders, known as the breakaway. This group is made up of riders who have managed to break away from the peloton and get a few seconds’ lead. The peloton will usually try to catch the breakaway to prevent them from gaining too much of an advantage.

In long-distance races such as the Tour de France, the peloton is usually the first group to finish the race. In a typical Tour de France stage, the peloton will cover the distance in around 4.5 hours, with the breakaway taking about an hour longer.

The peloton is an important part of the cycling world, and it is essential for riders to learn how to work together in order to maximize their performance. Working together in a peloton can be a great experience, and it can be a great way to learn more about cycling.

to the page.

The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Peloton/Bunch'

The term 'Peloton' or 'Bunch' is used to describe a group of cyclists riding together. This term is believed to have originated in France in the late 19th century. It is thought to have been derived from the French word for platoon, 'pelote', which means a small ball.

The first documented use of the term 'Peloton' in the context of cycling was in 1891 in the Tour de France. At this time, the definition of 'Peloton' was a group of cyclists who stayed together during a race and rode in a tight formation. This allowed them to use the aerodynamic benefits of being close together, and also provided a psychological advantage for the riders, as they felt safer in a larger group.

Since its inception, the term 'Peloton' has been adopted by cyclists around the world, and is now widely used to describe a group of riders riding together. It is often used interchangeably with the term 'Bunch', which has a similar meaning but is thought to have originated in England.

The term 'Peloton' has become a fundamental part of cycling, and is used to describe any group of cyclists riding together. Whether it is a race or a leisurely ride, the term is now widely used to describe any group of cyclists on the road.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER