You are reading a single comment by @andyp and its replies.
Click here to read the full conversation.
London Fixed Gear and Single-Speed is a community of predominantly fixed gear and single-speed cyclists in and around London, UK.
This site is supported almost exclusively by donations. Please consider donating a small amount regularly.
@andyp
Di Luca hasn't been in great form and has a weak team, especially when compared to last year. The persistent drug allegations must mean he's being targeted for testing by the UCI too.
Simoni is a year older and has a weaker team than last year so whilst I'd never discount him I can't see him winning.
Ricco is unproven as a GC rider and is deeply unpopular with other riders so I can't see him being allowed the win.
Astana have only just received an invite so whilst they have three strong riders on their roster, in Contador, Kloden and Leipheimer, they've not had the best preparation. The first week is quite tough too so if they are off the pace they could be eliminated from the GC by the other teams.
The course is evenly balanced with four time trials (including the opening team time trial) and some damn tough mountain stages.
I wouldn't like to call it but with the toughest stage in the race on the Saturday before the race finishes (which includes the Mortirolo which even a proven hard man like PJ might struggle on) a climber with stamina may just edge it.