Time For The Big Boys – Stage 7 finally sees the race leave the flatlands, and the big dogs can come out to play.
The race enters the Jura mountains on the German/Swiss border with France.
The sprinters and those who are dealing with injuries from falls in the first week will ride small, attempting to save some energy in the hope that they can come good later in the race, while those with hopes of GC places will be planning how they will maximise advantages, or minimise losses.
The finale up La Planche Des Belles Filles is not super tough, but it is certainly hard enough that there will be some gaps between the main contenders.
Tonight, we shall see if Cadel can take some time out of Wiggo, and we may also see the intentions of any other contenders if they are able to drag time out of the big two.
For mine, the Garmin boys are going to want to make a statement after their disastrous day yesterday, and being so far from the front, will be granted the leeway on the final climb.
Dan Martin from Nibali from Evans. Time For The Big Boys