A Belgian roundabout is a special cycling technique that is mainly used in time trials or in breakaway groups to maintain speed while distributing the load evenly among the riders.

Course of the Belgian roundabout

• Two rotating lines: Riders move in two lines – a fast line upwind (where riders lead) and a slower line downwind (where riders recover).
• Constant change: As soon as a rider in the fast row gets to the front, he immediately switches to the slower row and drops back.
• Dynamics: The continuous circling of the riders keeps the pace high and no one is in the wind for too long.

Advantages of the Belgian roundabout:

✔ Efficient force distribution within a group
✔ Higher average pace than with a conventional lead change tactic
✔ Perfect for breakaway groups to assert themselves against the peloton

However, the Belgian roundabout requires a high degree of discipline and good communication to ensure the rhythm isn't disrupted. The technique can be particularly challenging in crosswinds, as riders must stagger their turns precisely depending on the wind direction.