The peloton is the main clutch of riders formed during the race. Here the peloton rides from Luchon to Carcassone, France in July 2006.

2006 Tour de France - Stage Twelve: Race leader Floyd Landis of the USA and
Phonak rides in the peloton on July 14, 2006 from Luchon to Carcassonne, France.
Bryn Lennon / Getty Images