August 30, Stage 9: Torrevieja - Cumbre del Sol 168.3 km
By Cycling News published
A vicious final climb will see the explosive climbers come to the fore
Like the previous day, the finale of this stage features a double crossing of a climb. However, the Cumbre del Sol is not only a tougher proposition than the Cresta del Gallo but the finish is also located at its summit.
It’s the only difficulty of a day that passes through regular training camp territory on the Costa Blanca. The riders don’t go all the way to the top on the first passage over the Cumbre del Sol. As such, it’s rated as second category. On the second ascent, they tackle its full 3.5km, averaging 11 per cent, with sections at close to 20.
It looks to be an ideal opportunity for explosive climbers like Joaquim Rodríguez but the time gaps between the GC hitters won’t be large.
José Luis Arrieta (Movistar DS):
"This is a new finish but I’m sure some of the riders will know this climb from all of the training camps in this area. Those who don’t will get a good look at most of it, before the final test. The gradient should suit Alejandro and Nairo, who are likely to be our leaders, so this could be a good day for us."
The text in this preview originally appeared in the September edition of Procycling magazine (opens in new tab).

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
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
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
Stefan Bissegger wins European time trial title
Stefan Küng second, Filippo Ganna third in Fürstenfeldbruck -
Nairo Quintana's Vuelta a España participation up in the air after Tramadol news
'It's for the rider and the team to decide' says race director Javier Guillen -
Magnus Sheffield storms to time trial victory on stage 2 of Tour of Denmark
US rider takes overall lead after beating Skjelmose, Laporte, Thomas -
Aranburu takes sprint on stage 2 of Tour du Limousin
Movistar rider out-paces Grosu, Venturini to take over race lead