With almost over 2,700m of climbing this could be classified as a mountain stage but the climbing is broken up and includes only one, long, sustained grade. However, after a long, difficult stage the day before, this is a day when just about anything could potentially happen.
Starting in California’s high desert the route climbs up into the Los Padres National Forest This is perfect terrain for a small, dedicated breakaway as the climbing is not difficult enough to select only the strongest riders. The most sustained ascent is the 32km Lake Hughes Road but with only 518m of climbing along its distance, this will be a high-speed test and is very unlikely to force a selection.
TOPICS
-
Belgian Cyclo-cross National Championships: Marion Norbert Riberolle defends elite women's title with dominant solo win
Fleur Moors second after crashing out of early lead, Kiona Crabbé completes podium in third -
'It's going to be one hell of a ride' – Brendan Johnston sets off in 4,000km pursuit of fastest known time from Perth to Sydney
Australian gravel professional will have to ride more than 600km a day to top current fastest known time of six days, 10 hours and 58 minutes -
Soudal-QuickStep riders interrupt training ride to help driver with stuck car – Video
Members of Belgian squad help push vehicle back onto road, joking that it 'probably wouldn't be possible with a bunch of climbers' -
Snow and icy conditions affecting cyclo-cross National Championships in Belgium and the Netherlands
Wintry conditions have forced schedule changes in Belgium, whilst Dutch organisers vow that nothing but a red weather warning will stop their Championships
