Career
His major wins include the 2008 Tour de l"Avenir and stage 2 of the 2013 Tour de France, claiming the yellow jersey after winning the stage by only a second of an advantage on the peloton after a late attack. He also rode the 2010 Giro d"Italia, in which he finished 36th. Bakelants left RadioShack–Leopard at the end of the 2013 season, and joined Omega Pharma–Quick-Step for the 2014 season.
In August 2014, it was announced that he would be leaving Omega Pharma–Quick-Step after one year and joining AG2R Louisiana Mondiale on a two-year deal.