Friday’s Stage 13 of the Giro d’Italia looks relatively “easy” on paper. But the finale into Verbania could deliver one of the most aggressive finishes of the race so far.
The 186-km route from Alessandria spends much of the day on flat roads across northern Italy before the race really bites in the closing kilometres. That’s because of two short but sharp climbs, the Bieno and Ungiasca. Those suckers should split the bunch and give the puncheurs a chance to shine. The last one tops out with roughly 14 km remaining, leaving just enough road for attacks, small-group tactics, or a reduced sprint by the lake.
Sprinters, have a seat
Pure sprinters are unlikely to survive the climbs, while the GC contenders may prefer to save energy before Saturday’s mountain showdown. Stage 14 from Aosta to is only 133km, but has a nasty summit finish after multiple climbs–the first one coming early.
So if those fighting for the overall are keen to let others go for it, that opens the door for opportunists and explosive classics-style riders.
Jhonatan Narváez again? Maybe Giulio Ciccone or Christian Scaroni? Filippo Ganna is from the area, so he may be looking to shine in front of friends and family.
Stage 12 of the Giro d’Italia saw Belgian Alec Segaert take a win after a brilliant late-race attack. He launched with 3.3 km to go and stayed away for the dub. It was a good day for Bahrain-Victorious, with his teammate Afonso Eulálio staying in the maglia rosa for another day. Is today his last one in pink?
You can watch today’s race on FloBikes.com beginning at 6:30 a.m. EDT. If you miss it, cuz, life, well, Canadian Cycling Magazine has you covered. There will be a full report with photos as soon as the lads in Italy are done with their day at the office.
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