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Paris-Roubaix: The Queen of Carnage
You know it, we know it — Paris - Roubaix is brutal. Between the bone-rattling cobbles and weather that swings from dust bowl to mud bath in minutes, it’s a dream and a nightmare in equal measure.
We've caught up with Jeff Crombie, Head Mechanic at EF Pro Cycling to find out how they prep the bikes for the infamous Hell of the North.
“You want a bike that doesn’t feel like a sofa on tarmac but can take a beating on the stones,” says Jeff. The secret sauce? Tyre pressure. And a lot of testing. “Tubeless has changed the game — no more pinch flats, and way more room to dial in control and comfort without sacrificing speed.”
Tubeless Life = Best Life
EF’s fully on board the tubeless train, and we’re right there with them. “You can fine-tune pressure like never before,” says Jeff. “Even if you get unlucky, it’s way more forgiving than the old-school tubulars.”
It’s tech that’s race-proven and now shop-floor ready. Want Roubaix-level performance for your weekend ride? Tubeless is your best mate.
Chain Lube: It's Ludicrous
EF has worked super close with us on fine-tuning chain performance for the roughest rides. As the fastest lube of our line up, Ludicrous is the go-to for the team for marathon days on nasty terrain and smooth roads alike.
“The right lube can make or break your race,” Jeff tells us. “We’re talking hours of punishment, wet or dry. Squeaks are your enemy.”
Ceramic Coating for the Win
Last year, we coated the EF fleet with Ceramic Protection before Roubaix. Why? Less grime = less weight = more watts saved.
“We saw the difference,” says Jeff. “The trick is finding the time to apply it — pro life is non-stop. But when we make it part of the build process? Total game-changer.”
Pro tip: you can do the same at home before a filthy winter ride. Trust us!
It’s Not All Spanners and Allen Keys
Think being a World Tour mechanic is just bike builds and wheel swaps? Think again. With seven concurrent race programs and riders, bikes, and spares spread across Europe, it’s basically Formula One meets Tetris.
“Sometimes, working on the bikes is the easiest part of the day,” Jeff laughs. “You’ve got to be part wrench wizard, part logistics ninja.”
The Future of Bike Tech? It’s in the Tyres
Aerodynamics have had their time in the sun — now it’s all about wheels and tyres.
“Tyre and rim combos are where the big gains are coming,” Jeff says. “It’s a dark art, but the right setup gives you grip, speed, and safety, resulting in more confidence. That’s what wins races.”
Forget VO2 max — if you can't corner fast, you won't be on the podium.
Jeff’s #1 Tip for Riders Like You?
Wash. Your. Bike.
We know, we know. You’d rather ride than rinse. But hear the man out:
“Cleaning your bike is a safety check. You’ll feel cracks before you see them. You’ll spot blown tyres before they blow you off the road.”
A clean bike’s a fast bike. A clean drivetrain’s a happy drivetrain. And your carbon hoops will thank you later.
Final Words from the Pits
Jeff’s got love for the Classics (“total war, but beautiful”), respect for every rider, and a real passion for making bikes perform at their absolute peak.
And for us? That’s what it’s all about.
So, whether you're smashing spring KOMs or just dodging potholes on the Sunday spin, remember: behind every smooth ride is some serious science — and a mechanic who’s got your back.
Big thanks to Jeff and the EF crew for letting us peek behind the curtain. Now go clean your bike.
