Gallery: The technology of Paris-Roubaix

Paris-Roubaix is unique — the last race on the calendar that requires teams to drastically modify their equipment choices from the usual carbon-filled, aerodynamic status quo. The range of technology is slimmer than it used to be, as carbon fiber technology and cycling equipment in general improve and normal gear is able to handle the stress Roubaix applies. But there are still plenty of modifications to be done. The wheels shown here used to be the standby — a pair of Ambrosio Nemesis rims laced to a team's hub of choice with at least 32 spokes, wrapped in fatter-than-usual tires. But as carbon rims have gained strength, the vast majority of these wheels, including the ones shown here, have been relegated to backup-bike status. Photo: Caley Fretz | VeloNews.com