The Tour de France is the most important bike race in the world which attracts a massive global audience.
Although the route changes every year, there is always a mixture of flat and mountain stages through the Alps and the Pyrenees, with classic stages which have become part of history.
The time trial stages are exciting as they are the ones which help to sort out the best riders from the others.
The finishing line is on the Champs Elysee in Paris after 21 intense stages.
The riders work as a team to ensure that they have one of their riders winning either the yellow, green, white and/or spotted jersey.
Since the beginning of this iconic race there has been a mass of folklore and fascinating history emanating from it. The spectators who spend hours waiting on the side of the road are also an important part of the scene, often wearing fancy dress as they cheer on their favorite riders.
Tour de France: Past and Present