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Image Credit: AP

Olympic road cycling takes two forms. Firstly it runs in time trial format. Riders start at regular intervals and attempt to complete the course in the fastest possible time.

Men will complete four laps, while women will do two.

In the second format, which will start in Fort Copacabana, all competitors start together for a long-distance race.

Road bikes need to be light, sturdy and comfortable as riders spend long hours cycling. In the individual time trial, the bike’s aerodynamics and the rider’s position are what counts.

A total of 211 riders – 144 men and 67 women – will take part.

When: Saturday August 6 and Sunday August 7 Competition: Men and women compete separately

Road cycling in numbers

4

Laps for men in the time trial

2

Laps for women in the time trial

2

Formats

211

Riders in total