This year’s race will hold its first ever time trial with a summit finish and it should be a corker. The course uses the first 90 per cent of the 2006 TT’s route but with a vicious sting in the tail – the 2.7km, 290m climb up Metcalf Road, averaging a leg-sapping 10.6 per cent.
A closer look at the terrain and weather reveals that this is really two separate time trials in one, and therein lies the dilemma. The first 29km are rolling or flat, then there’s that pesky climb. Then consider that the 12km to the base of the climb will most likely be ridden into a tough headwind and it is clear that aerodynamics will be as important as ever in a TT. But an aerodynamic bike and riding position aren’t ideal for climbing fast, especially on a steep slope.
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Vuelta Asturias: Ivan Garcia Cortina nabs breakaway win on stage 2
Movistar rider narrowly hangs onto victory ahead of chaser Julius Johansen in second, as Marc Soler finishes third and takes the overall lead -
'Really happy and proud' – No complaints for Thymen Arensman after losing Tour of the Alps lead on final day
Dutchman admits Michael Storer was 'on another level' as the Australian clawed back the overall win on stage 5 -
'Nico deserves it more' – Prodhomme wins final stage as teenage Paul Seixas becomes the revelation of the Tour of the Alps
French 18-year-old repays teammate with first pro victory as Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale go 1-2 in Lienz -
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