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Bordeaux-Paris

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description Bordeaux-Paris Overview

Bordeaux-Paris was a French one-day professional road cycling race first held in 1891. Its route traditionally covered roughly 560 to 620 kilometres between Bordeaux and Paris, making it unusually long for a single-day event. Later editions became closely associated with motor-paced racing behind derny motorcycles, which allowed riders to maintain high speeds over the final portion. Known as the Derby of the Road, it was last held as a professional race in 1988.

help Bordeaux-Paris FAQ

What was the Bordeaux-Paris race?

Bordeaux-Paris was a French one-day professional road race first held in 1891. Its traditional route covered roughly 560 to 620 kilometres between Bordeaux and Paris.

Why was Bordeaux-Paris unusually difficult?

The distance was far longer than most one-day races, and riders often raced through the night. Later editions became associated with motor-paced support, in which a motorcycle helped a rider maintain speed.

When was the last Bordeaux-Paris race held?

The professional race was last held in 1988. Its long-distance format became increasingly difficult to sustain as modern professional cycling developed shorter and more specialized events.

How did motor pacing work in Bordeaux-Paris?

A motorcycle or motorized vehicle rode ahead of the cyclist, allowing the rider to shelter in its slipstream. This practice helped explain the race's later reputation as a distinctive endurance and speed event.

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