The last part of bike racing is the man or woman on the cycle. Professional riders are trying to accomplish three things; they must have incredible fitness, a very large power output, and accomplish these things without becoming to heavy.

Bikers usually have tinny upper bodies and larger legs; this is to have maximum power output with little weight. they also must have the control and intuition to know how much power they can put into each revolution of their petals. If they apply too much they might spin their wheel gaining little forward motion and burning excess energy.  Also, having larger legs moves the center of mass lower on the bike allowing for much better control. As seen in the picture to the right the rider is low on the bike making a low center of gravity, and also reducing his drag.

Racers have to maintain the three physical qualities needed for strong performance, but also mush contend with a plethora of mental challenges.