This Tour's spectacular start will separate the men from the boys. The inaugural time trial of 15 kilometres is already long enough to make the favourites show themselves, especially since a part of the route will lead the riders up the coastal hills and into the hinterland of the glamorous city. It is a demanding, technical route with several particularly steep climbs, including a 10 percent incline.
The descent is slightly technical with a right hand hairpin at the 4km-mark, as well as four tight curves to master just before the riders hit the seafront straight to the finish in the old harbour.
Article continues belowVaughters' views
This will be a test of skill, climbing ability, time trial prowess, and judgment - all abilities one needs to win the Tour. Who are my favourites? Alberto Contador is who'd I'd pick, but I'm sure a very on form Fabian Cancellara and a very skinny Brad Wiggins will be in the mix. Look carefully at the top 10, and you'll see many a name that you'll be seeing a lot of for the next 3 weeks.
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