Criterium du Dauphine 2016 Stage 1: Cluses - Saint-Vulbas, 186km
Map and profile
The Dauphiné returns to the capital of the Arve Valley with a stage designed for the sprinters. With Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis), Alexander Kristoff (Katusha), Sam Bennett (Bora Argon 18), and John Degenkolb (Giant Alpecin) all in the mix, the stage will be controlled by the sprinters' teams, rather than the GC contenders, although a break is likely to form and contest the four fourth-category climbs. The last climb comes almost 50 kilometres before the finish, providing the sprinters with little excuse.
Cyclingnews' top tip: Alexander Kristoff (Katusha): The Norwegian, on paper, is the strongest sprinter in the race, but will face stiff competition from the in-form Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis), who won two stages last year.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
‘After the surgery I feel so much stronger’ – Sarah Gigante goes on the attack on return to the Women’s WorldTour at Tour de Suisse
Australian captures mountains jersey on stage 1 after a powerful performance on Juanpass -
Unbound Gravel 200 live coverage draws more than 300,000 views in 50 countries
Sean Christian takes first leader's jersey at Tour de Beauce with Oscar Sevilla in the hunt, Marlies Mejías earns double titles at Cuban Nationals - North American Roundup -
Tour de Suisse 2025 start list
Official start list for 2025 Tour de Suisse -
'I think she could give a bit extra' - Vollering out-matched by Reusser in Tour de Suisse Women stage 1
Reusser explains how 'second group syndrome' played a crucial role in her stage-winning tactics