Bicycle racing is a very scientific sport and equipment advances come at a swift pace. Riders depend on the latest technology to make their jobs easier by improving performance. Despite all the high-tech equipment, it's still an athleteÕs physical condition, tactical dexterity and sheer determination that will drive one rider across the finish line first. Here are some of the tools of the trade:

Bikes: Not your average bicycles, these machines are made out of Aircraft Steel, Aluminum, Carbon Fiber or Titanium. They weigh 17 to 21 pounds and often cost several thousand dollars each.

Wheels: Racing wheels are made out of lightweight, aerodynamic aluminum or carbon fiber. They may contain traditional spokes, or increasingly, carbon fiber wing shaped blades. Tire casings are made out of silk, cotton or nylon and pumped up to between 100 and 145 psi. They can be mechanically attached to the rims or in most cases glued on with special adhesives.

**Riders generally use standard (conventional) wheels which are clearly defined in UCI article 1.3.018 (relates only to group races in packs). These wheels are authorized de facto.

However, during races in packs, certain riders do use non-standard wheels (rims higher than 2.5 cm, fewer than 16 spokes, spoke thicknesses of over 2.4 mm). If any of these conditions is noted, the wheel is deemed to be a non-standard wheel and must have passed a break test in order for it to be authorized for use in competition.

The manufacturers inform the UCI of the names of wheels which have been successfully tested. The wheels can therefore be clearly identified. If this is not the case then the wheel is not authorized for use.

For massed start road races only wheel designs granted prior approval by the UCI may be used. Wheels will have minimum 12 spokes; spokes can be round, flattened or oval, as far as no dimension of their sections exceeds 10 mm. In order to be granted approval wheels must have passed a rupture test as prescribed by the UCI in a laboratory approved by the UCI. The test results must show that the rupture characteristics obtained are compatible with those resulting from an impact sustained during normal use of the wheel.

Gears: Road bikes have 18 to 20 gears and a freewheel that allows the rider to coast. Changing gears is done with special levers on the handlebars that allow a rider to make instant, precise gear changes without taking their hands from the bars.

Clipless Pedals: Similar in function to a ski binding, a rider locks their feet to the pedals when they "step in" and a safety release disengages them during an accident or with a deliberate motion.

Cycling Computers: Provides vital information about distance, speed, time and other data.

Heart Rate Monitors: Helps a rider keep track of their heart rate and recovery allowing them to base their efforts on how their body is responding.

Helmets: Specially designed lightweight helmets are mandatory for racing in Canada (for UCI and CCA Road Racing events). They must pass ANSI crash standards and be well ventilated. These helmets are often cooler and more aerodynamic than wearing nothing at all and significantly reduce the risk of head injuries.

Eyewear: Provide optical quality lenses that filter wind, dust and debris in addition to glare.

Shoes: Not made for walking, their only purpose is to transfer every ounce of power from the legs to the pedals. They have rigid steel or plastic soles with cleats allowing the rider to lock into their pedals.

Jerseys: Specially made uniforms with pockets to carry food and water. They also serve to identify members of the same team and provide advertising for their sponsors.

Shorts: Designed to provide padding against chafing and pressure, cycling shorts may look strange but they make long rides comfortable and is part of the international uniform standard.

Skin suits: These sleek one piece aerodynamic uniforms have no pockets. They are designed to minimize wind drag and maximize ventilation during shorter races.

Gloves: Provide padding in long races and traction when the hands get sweaty, but many riders also use them to clean debris from their tires while riding and as extra protection in case of a fall.