Vuelta a España: Stage 6 preview
Stage details and expert guide
Tarazona – Jaca
Distance: 174.8km
Highest point: 1,070m
Category: Medium mountains
A sting in the tail
This stage isn’t complicated at all until the final 20km or so. Heading from Rioja into Aragón, it finishes in the winter resort of Jaca. Just before Jaca, the riders will tackle the first of two cat 3 climbs. This is the Puerto de Oroel, which is the highest of the pair but far easier than the Alto Fuerte de Rapitán that quickly follows. The Rapitán looks tougher than most cat 3 ascents, climbing for almost 4km at more than 8 per cent, with sections of 14 per cent and the stage finish at the summit. It will be interesting to see how the flyweight climbers match up against the puncheurs and more powerful riders.
Abraham Olano: "The contenders will have to be on their guard during the finale of this stage. It finishes in the old part of Jaca after a 3km climb that could be explosive. It will suit power riders and their attacks could split the bunch before the finish."
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Most Popular
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
Taco van der Hoorn inks two-year extension with Intermarché-Wanty
Dutch rider back to health after severe concussion layoff -
Lauren De Crescenzo: Team Amani women gravel riders 'redefine what’s possible' in Africa
Lauren De Crescenzo shares photos and lessons shared and learned after spending 12 days with Black Mamba Development women -
Tadej Pogačar's training: What sessions does the three-time Tour de France champion do?
Calculating the world champion's training zones -
'I've reached another level' - Adam Yates eyes Giro d'Italia GC fight in 2025
UAE Team Emirates leader to return to Italian Grand Tour after eight-year absence