Stage 12: Bourg-de-Péage - Mende
Stage 12: Bourg-de-Péage - Mende
Date: July 16 2010
Distance: 210.fkm
Armstrong could suffer
This is a long stage, measuring more than 200 kilometres. In this region, it is often hot and the day finishes with the Laurent Jalabert climb in Mende, which is no easy task. Some sections even include 10% slopes.
This climb (formerly the Côte de la Croix Neuve) requires a sudden boost and could hurt riders who build-up into ascents like Armstrong. In comparison to Contador, who has more punch, he could lose around thirty seconds.
There will be a struggle between ten riders, including those who will be on the podium on the Champs-Élysées.
Source: letour.fr