The stage is inviting to those who seek to go on the attack. The course features long descents and two climbs that are no too steep. Tim Wellens could be in business here. Especially the last 6 kilometres section is suited for a late attack by the Belgian as it is partly a false flat.
That said, there are some big names in the GC who will want to show their names are not all they can bring to the table. Think of the likes of El Sr. Valverde and il Mr. Nibali. Chances are they will join forces, if not today than in one of the upcoming stages. After all, they are backed by the strongest team and they have to wear out Kruijswijk and his men if they want to get rid of the strong Dutchman.
Obviously a long break is a better option if you want to put time into your opponents, yet the route doesn’t seem to be harsh enough to make a proper difference.
Favourites 16th stage Giro d’Italia 2016:
*** Vincenzo Nibali, Alejandro Valverde, Tim Wellens
** Steven Kruijswijk, Ilnur Zakarin, Esteban Chaves
* Rafal Majka, Ruben Plaza, Giovanni Visconti
Giro 2016 Stage 16: Route maps, height profiles, etc.
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