7 Times Tour de France Winner Once Struck a $500,000 Charity Auction Deal That Also Drew PETA’s Ire

In 2008, Lance Armstrong announced his comeback to competitive cycling, after a brief retirement in 2005. The reason, was Armstrong’s express wish to partake in the Tour de France, and his intention to further promote his cancer research foundation. The decision was followed by the introduction of a bike-based artwork, aimed to celebrate Armstrong’s comeback, and to auction it off for charity. However, the story of the bike took a life of its own.

In a selfless act, Armstrong auctioned off his one-of-a-kind ride to raise funds for the Livestrong Foundation. The amount, a noteworthy $500,000 donation to charity, went on to establish the bike as the most expensive bike ever sold at auction. However, it came with its own controversies.

Lance Armstrong’s philanthropic gesture at the Tour de France

In 2009, notable artist named Damien Hirst designed the bicycle known as the Butterfly Trek Madone, which according to Bike Radar was later sold at an auction for an astonishing sum of $500,000. However, the point of contention was the use of real butterfly wings which were incorporated into its frame and wheels. Hirst had previously earned infamy from animal rights activists for using dead animals in his sculptures.

The bike garnered interest from not only cycling enthusiasts but also PETA, who called the bike “barbaric”. The media coverage and notoriety, nonetheless, only amplified the bike’s eventual auction price. The consequent $500,000 garnered was pooled into Armstrong’s charitable efforts.

RODEZ, FRANCE – JULY 16: Lance Armstrong riding with Cure Leukaemia charity riders during stage thirteen of the One Day Ahead – Le Tour 2015 on July 16, 2015 in Rodez, France. (Photo by Sam Bagnall/Getty Images)The Livestrong Foundation, a nonprofit entity, was established by Lance Armstrong in 1997. The foundation plays a crucial role in providing essential aid and financial resources for cancer research, treatment, and support. Having survived the notorious disease himself, the champion wanted to do his part for the people suffering from the same.

Apart from showcasing remarkable athletic prowess and enduring spirit, the Tour de France also offers bike and component manufacturers an exclusive avenue for illustrating their groundbreaking equipment before a worldwide audience.

The price tags of Tour de France bikes revealed

The teams taking part in the Tour de France 2023 depend on high-quality bicycles that come at a considerable price. The precise costs may differ for each team as they have their own budgets. On average, each bike is estimated to be priced between $13,000 and $16,000 (USD). The substantial financial commitment made by bike sponsors signifies their eagerness to showcase their logos prominently on the bicycles ridden by victorious cyclists. Nevertheless, sharp-eyed spectators might notice some riders in the pack who choose to use equipment that differs from their sponsors’ brands.

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The Pinarello Bolide F-time trial bike, used by the Ineos Grenadiers team in the Tour de France 2023, stands out as the most extravagant and expensive bike in the peloton. Its price tag of $50,000 (USD) is truly astonishing.

These high costs highlight the commitment of bike sponsors to supply their teams with top-notch equipment that can give them a competitive advantage in the race.

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