340 watts, 500g of carbs, and nothing on the mind – How Silvan Dillier pulls the peloton alone for hours on end

The recent *CyclingNews* feature illuminated the remarkable efforts of Alpecin-Deceuninck's Silvan Dillier, detailing his superdomestique role. The Swiss rider consistently pulls the peloton for hours, maintaining an average of 340 watts and consuming 500g of carbohydrates during these monumental shifts. The article explored his mental fortitude and the psychological impact of such sustained, selfless work, particularly when team victory ultimately eludes them.

This insight into Dillier's process underscores the often-unseen sacrifices made by domestiques, whose physical output frequently rivals or exceeds that of their leaders, yet without the accompanying glory. His ability to maintain such high power outputs and carbohydrate intake for extended periods highlights the elite physiology required, while his mental approach to the repetitive, gruelling task offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of the sport's unsung heroes. It's a stark reminder that Grand Tour victories are built on the backs of many.

Dillier’s dedication is a testament to the sport's enduring hierarchy: some are born to lead, others to suffer. And suffer they do, often with only the quiet satisfaction of a job well done, or the bitter taste of a missed opportunity.