List: This thread is NOT an attempt to start a debate about the current doping scandals plaguing the sport of pro-cycling...Rather, it is a question I have about the history of drug use in the sport. As a relative "newbie" to the world of racing bicycles (classic or otherwise...I have only been involved for 6+ years), there is a certain "unmentionable" history that I know almost nothing about. And current debate has made me curious. I hope you can forgive my naivete... Through reading and listening to a number of discussions about contemporary wide spread use of drugs, one stance or discussion point that often comes up is something along the lines of "drug use and cycling have gone hand in hand for decades". I'd love to hear some opinions as to whether or not drug use is really something that has historically played a role in the pro peleton, to which the general public and the pro organization have turned a blind eye. Is it a widely known (or greatly debated) fact that many of our heros from the bygone "golden age" of cycling were not, in fact, "riding clean"? Any suggestions for further reading will also be appreciated. Matthew Bowne Brooklyn, New York