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| While the sport of cycling has been a popular betting sport throughout the European countries, it has become more popular in the United States since Lance Armstrong’s incredible performances in the Tour de France. Further, the professional cycling season is far more than just the three-week Tour de France. The world’s best road cyclists compete in UCI Pro Tour events from March to October, including all the sport’s most prestigious races on the schedule. Certainly, the Tour de France tops the UCI Pro Tour list, but the Giro d’Italia, Tour de Suisse and the Vuelta a Espana also attract high-class fields. |
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| General Rules/Betting Guidelines |
Oddsmakers set their odds for each cycling event, as well as for stages within certain events. For example, for the Tour de France, the oddsmakers post prices on the three most significant jerseys (yellow, green and polka dot) before the race begins, and then revise them at regular intervals as the peloton makes its way to the finish line in Paris.
Most bettors play their favorite cyclist to win, a straight bet similar to an outright winner in golf. However, short-term options are available for certain stages. For example, some cyclists are specialists at sprinting, while others excel at the grueling mountain climbs.
In addition, some sportsbooks offer matchups in cycling, providing the bettor with an opportunity to handicap sprinter against sprinter or climber against climber. These matchups are offered on a moneyline, such as Jan Ullrich –130 Robbie McEwen +105. If the bettor wagers $130 on Ullrich –130 and Ullrich finishes ahead of McEwen, then the bettor wins $100. If the bettor wagers $100 on McEwen +105 and McEwen finishes ahead of Ullrich, then the bettor wins $105.
For bettors new to cycling, the Giro d’Italia is worth a special look. Held in May, the Giro covers an almost all-Italian route, crossing over briefly into San Marino and Slovenia. The race is well balanced though slightly in favor of the climbers; it’s a timely opportunity to get to know riders and teams before the Tour de France in July. |
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