I think when you have to resort to analysis you’re getting away from who is the greatest, and going for the “most winningest” which isn’t necessarily the same thing.
With Beryl Burton it’s the nature of her wins rather than the volume which makes her great in my eyes. Beating men’s records isn’t something we’re seeing being done these days, especially by “part-timers”.
The nature of the achievement is also why Obree comes to my mind for the men’s side.
Design, build, and self train for the world hour record? Who else has done that? Just think, if he had being willing to take the “special vitamins” he could have been our first TdF winner. Instead he was spat out of the professional scene very quickly.
That’s not taking anything away from the wins of our current crop. They have done very well and elevated cycling in this country to a new level.