I've been following the Tour since 1985 and am looking forward to this year's Tour.
Armstrong could possibly break his own record of six wins (consequitive) and retire with seven wins in-a-row.
Thus far, only Indurain has managed even five in a row (1991-1995).
Only three other riders have had five wins; Hinault ('78-'79, '81-82, '85), Merkx ('69-'72, '74) and Anquetil ('57, '62-'64).
The only other American Tour winner, Lemond, could have had five in a row, but missed '87 and '88 as his brother-in-law mistook him for a turkey whilst hunting; he was a better rider than either Roche or Delgado who won whilst he was ill. But equally, Hinault and Anquetil could have had eight-in-a-row, as none of the riders who broke their runs were truely 'better', even if the fitness problems that prevented them winning weren;t quite as dramatic. Merkx could have only had six, but Ocana was a good rider too...
The bets are however, if Armstrong does make it seven, it will be at least generation before anyone comes near it... although maybe people said that about Indurain? I could never stand him...
Any cycling fans out there?