There’s still tech innovation happening at Roubaix. Here’s what we found at the pits pre-race.
(Photo: Chris Auld)
Published April 13, 2026 04:09PM
Paris-Roubaix is one of the most anticipated races each year for its hectic, unpredictable racing — but it’s also a treat for fans of bike tech. The race’s punishing cobblestone roads test equipment unlike any other race, and although the bikes have become more standard in recent years, there’s still innovation to be found.
This year, the adoption of 1x drivetrains at Roubaix took a leap forward, with SRAM and Shimano sponsored teams both taking advantage of a lighter, simpler system that in theory should prevent chain drops thanks to the use of chain guides.
We also saw mountain bike derailleurs, a notable rider pioneering tire widths beyond 32mm, and other interesting details pulled out for cycling’s most demanding day of racing. Let’s dive in.
Gallery: Paris-Roubaix tech 2026
















Mathias Norsgaard had an unusual looking cockpit with a super long stem atop a stack of spacers. (Photo: Andrew Hood/Velo)

















