Sex, Lies and Handlebar Tape summary

Unmasking the Legend of Jacques Anquetil

In Sex, Lies and Handlebar Tape by Paul Howard, we are invited to take a closer look at the life of cycling legend Jacques Anquetil. This biography delves into Anquetil's personal and professional life, revealing the man behind the public persona. As we unravel his story, we discover that Anquetil's life was far from the glamorous image that he projected.

Anquetil was a controversial figure in the cycling world, often perceived as aloof and arrogant. His relationships with his fellow cyclists were strained, and he was known for his unapologetic attitude towards his use of performance-enhancing drugs. Howard portrays Anquetil as a man who was unafraid to speak his mind, even if it meant alienating himself from his peers and fans.

Complex Personal Life

Howard takes us deeper into Anquetil's personal life, which was as tumultuous as his professional career. Despite being married, Anquetil engaged in multiple extramarital affairs, some of which were highly publicized. His most scandalous relationship was with his step-daughter, whom he later married after divorcing her mother. This unconventional family setup shocked the public and added to Anquetil's reputation as a maverick.

Despite his unconventional personal life, Anquetil remained unapologetic and unrepentant. He was a man who lived by his own rules, refusing to conform to societal expectations. Howard presents Anquetil as a man who was unafraid to pursue his desires, regardless of the consequences or public opinion.

A Dominant Force in Cycling

While Anquetil's personal life was riddled with controversy, his professional career was nothing short of remarkable. He was the first cyclist to win the Tour de France five times, a feat that cemented his status as one of the greatest cyclists of all time. Anquetil's dominance on the cycling circuit was due to his exceptional time-trialing abilities and his meticulous approach to training and racing.

However, Anquetil's achievements were overshadowed by persistent doping allegations. He was open about his use of performance-enhancing drugs, claiming that they were necessary to remain competitive. This admission, coupled with his nonchalant attitude towards the rules, further alienated him from the cycling community and the public.

The Legacy of Anquetil

As we reach the end of Sex, Lies and Handlebar Tape, we are left with a complex portrait of Jacques Anquetil. He was a man who defied societal norms, both in his personal and professional life. His unapologetic approach to his actions, be it his use of drugs or his unconventional relationships, made him a polarizing figure.

Anquetil's legacy is a complicated one. While he is remembered as one of the greatest cyclists of all time, his reputation is clouded by his controversial personal life and his admission of doping. Howard's biography does not seek to glorify or condemn Anquetil; instead, it presents him as a multifaceted individual, flawed yet undeniably exceptional.