The difference between us mere mortals and a "successful" pro is not exactly VO²Max or power at threshhold (although these guys excel there as well for whatever reason...). I have access to power files of many domestic and international Pros and there are many around "only" 70 ml/min/kg.
The key difference is lactate build rate. Road racers have a lower build rate than criterium racers who have a lower rate than pure track sprinters. To put it short: it takes them longer to "blow up" during submaximal efforts.
Low lactate build rate is a genetic talent but it can be trainined by long steady L2/L3 rides. Apart from whatever it took to morph Jaja to a decent mountain goat it was about lots of training at the correct pace.
The key difference is lactate build rate. Road racers have a lower build rate than criterium racers who have a lower rate than pure track sprinters. To put it short: it takes them longer to "blow up" during submaximal efforts.
Low lactate build rate is a genetic talent but it can be trainined by long steady L2/L3 rides. Apart from whatever it took to morph Jaja to a decent mountain goat it was about lots of training at the correct pace.