On the flatter stages, almost the entire peloton wears a hardshell. In the mountains, the use of helmets becomes more sparse. The mountains are a bit safer, because normally you are in small groups of five or six cyclists, not two hundred trying to battle at the front. The use of helmets is up to each individual rider. What he might be doing is adjusting his shorts.
Saddle sores are a common problem after spending six and seven hours in the sweat and heat.
He probably is just readjusting everything down there. We use chamois cream to reduce the chafing, and clean well after each race. It is important that right after the race you change into dry clothing. We are always looking for solutions to our problem, if you know of any creams or lotions that help, please let us know. You came close in Paris a few years ago.