The Story of the Best Race in Franja

The author posits that the time trial stands as the most demanding discipline in cycling, surpassed only by cyclocross. He acknowledges this might be a controversial claim for weightlifters, footballers, boxers, or rowers, but asserts it is a scientifically supported fact. Specifically discussing the Franja Time Trial, Slovenia's premier cycling event that spans three days, he describes the time trial segment as the best choice among less desirable options.

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The time trial is the best choice among the worst.

As a journalist who has focused on cyclist safety in traffic, the author finds the topic tedious, especially for cyclists themselves. However, he notes that car drivers are keenly interested, often using such discussions to criticize cyclists' behavior. He emphasizes that mass cycling events have become increasingly dangerous due to the growing number of participants. While many events resemble Franja, he asserts that none offer the same level of safety.

He contrasts this with his experience competing in a "seventh force" world championship in Austria, where the road race occurred with open traffic on one side, leading to a fatal accident when a competitor collided with an oncoming van. This highlights his point: mass group rides and marathons have become too perilous. He suggests that time trials, being individual efforts, are the safest option for those wanting to test themselves against others or their own limits. They are also easier to organize, and spectators can easily follow the action in a concentrated area.

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Mass cycling events have become very dangerous. There are more and more cyclists on the road, and more and more are participating in events like Franja, but none are as safe as this one.

The author details the preparation for a time trial, from parking and assembling the bike to warming up and donning specialized gear. He describes the pre-race checks by officials, including bike measurements to ensure compliance with UCI rules for individual time trials. He also shares a brief, lighthearted interaction with an official who recognizes his work, before proceeding to the starting ramp, where a judge holds the bike until the signal is given to begin the race.

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Mass group rides have become too dangerous. Mass marathons too. And if I ask myself, everyone who wants to compete with themselves or their peers should ride a time trial.