After a tough time trial the day before, this is the stage where the overall leader will face his greatest challenge in defence of the leader’s jersey while his rivals will take their best shot at wresting it from his shoulders. Starting in Livermore, the race will complete a 100km loop including the Morgan Territory climb and a descent into California’s Central Valley before climbing back into the Livermore Valley over the stair-stepped ramps of the wind-swept Patterson Pass.
The base of Mount Diablo awaits but it will be over 12km into a headwind – sound familiar? – before the final climb. The climb starts with the familiar gentle 10km ascent of South Gate Road. But the final 8km steepen to seven per cent – with the final 500 metres at 17 per cent. This short, steep pitch should produce some exciting drama in an already action-packed stage.
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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
