Stage 2: Murrieta - Greater Palm Springs, 200km
May 13, 2013
With nearly 3,000m of accumulated climbing and a tough summit finish, stage 2 will provide the first chance for the fans to see the GC favorites reveal their intentions and show their form. Before reaching the race’s first difficulties, the course winds through Temecula’s wine region.
After 80 kilometres the route reaches Hemet and onto the 20km, 884m climb towards Idyllwild. A 24km, 1,220m drop brings the peloton into the Coachella Valley. The stretch to the summit finish could be ridden into a very stiff headwind, while the final ascent features a 6.4km, 580m climb averaging 9.7 per cent, the last half-mile at over 14 per cent.
With potential temperatures of around 38°C, a real epic is possible. Road signs warn drivers to turn off their air conditioning to avoid overheating as they climb. The contenders for the overall race title won’t have that same decision to make.
Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets
After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59
Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Most Popular
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
Dwars door Vlaanderen Men Live - Pedersen and Van Aert return to the cobbles
Peloton tackle 188.6km from Roeselare to Waregem in Tour of Flanders dress rehearsal -
Dwars door Vlaanderen Women Live - Classic stars prepare for Flanders
The peloton race seven cobblestone sections and nine climbs across 129.9km in Waregem -
Wout Poels reveals how Movistar punched and elbowed him at Volta a Catalunya
Dutch rider details acts of aggression from Iván García Cortina and Nairo Quintana -
Best cycling glasses of 2024: They're more than just sun protection
18 of the best cycling sunglasses for all conditions to keep you protected and looking stylish toos