A Tour rider’s work is never done, as these shots from the stage 11 départ reveal.
Before a pedal is turned, some of the riders are already at work, answering questions from journalists and meeting the public, but the atmosphere at Albertville was open and friendly.
The riders were happy to chat, perhaps enjoying the last moments of relaxation before a 148km stage with two hors categorie climbs and a first category summit finish.
Here’s a photo gallery showing how cycling’s stars are among the most approachable.
Sylvain Chavanel (Omega Pharma-QuickStep) chats before stage 11. After a strong opening week, the Frenchman abaondoned on stage 15
Fans mingled with the riders before stage 11 in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere
George Hincapie was one of many riders who found time to talk to fans in Albertville
Rein Taaramäe talks to a journalist while a fan drapes him in the Estonian flag. Taaramäe didn’t seem to mind
Kenny Van Hummel looks relaxed ahead of the challenge of the mountainous stage 11
