Critérium du dauphiné Stage 4: Evenepoel, Vingegaard, and Pogacar Face Crucial Time Trial
Table of Contents
- Critérium du dauphiné Stage 4: Evenepoel, Vingegaard, and Pogacar Face Crucial Time Trial
- Stage 4 Route: A Test of Power and Precision
- Key Start Times for Stage 4
- Weather Conditions: A Factor to Consider
- The Favorites: Evenepoel, Vingegaard, and Pogacar
- Predictions for Stage 4
- The Evolution of Time Trialing in Cycling
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Critérium du Dauphiné Stage 4 Time Trial
The critérium du Dauphiné intensifies with stage 4, a 17.4-kilometer individual time trial set to test the mettle of cycling’s top contenders. This critical stage, featuring a challenging climb, will considerably impact the general classification. All eyes are on Remco Evenepoel, Jonas Vingegaard, and Tadej Pogacar as they battle against the clock on this demanding course.
Stage 4 Route: A Test of Power and Precision
The time trial course can be segmented into three distinct sections. Starting from Chames-Sur-Rhone, riders will navigate a flat stretch along the river before hitting the ascent to les Freydieres, a 1.6-kilometer climb averaging 9.4% gradient.After passing the intermediate point in Toulaud, the route descends slightly towards the finish in Saint-Péray, where high speeds are expected despite a light headwind.
Did You Know? The average power output for a professional cyclist during a time trial can exceed 400 watts.
Key Start Times for Stage 4
Here are some of the vital start times for the key contenders in the stage 4 time trial:
| Rider | Start Time (CET) |
|---|---|
| Domen novak | 14:15:00 |
| Tobias Foss | 14:42:00 |
| Victor Campenaerts | 14:46:00 |
| Nils Politt | 15:00:00 |
| Lenny martinez | 15:57:00 |
| Remco Evenepoel | 16:33:00 |
| Jonas vingegaard | 16:35:00 |
| Tadej Pogacar | 16:37:00 |
| Mathieu van der Poel | 16:41:00 |
Weather Conditions: A Factor to Consider
Warm weather is expected in the Ardeche region of France, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.A north wind will likely create a headwind for a meaningful portion of the course, potentially impacting rider speeds and strategies.
The Favorites: Evenepoel, Vingegaard, and Pogacar
Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Swift-Step), the reigning Olympic and world champion in the time trial, enters as a top favorite. Though, Tadej Pogacar (UAE Emirates) and jonas Vingegaard (Visma | Lease a Bike) have demonstrated their prowess against the clock and are expected to challenge Evenepoel for the stage win. The time trial serves as a crucial test for the general classification contenders.
Beyond the “big three,” several other riders could contend for a strong result. magnus Sheffield (Ineos Grenadiers) and Matteo Jorgenson (Visma | Lease A Bike) are strong American riders capable of a top performance. Other potential contenders include Max Schachmann (Soudal Quick-step), Florian Lipowitz (Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe), and Victor Campenaerts (Visma | Lease A bike).
pro Tip: Riders often adjust their tire pressure based on weather conditions and road surfaces to optimize rolling resistance and grip.
Carlos Rodriguez (INEOS Grenadiers), Lenny Martinez (Bahrain Victorious), and Harold Tejada (XDS-Astana) are also riders to watch, having shown promise in previous time trials. Mathieu van der Poel’s participation adds another layer of intrigue; will he test his form against the clock?
Predictions for Stage 4
Here’s a breakdown of the favorites and potential dark horses for the stage 4 time trial:
- Top Favorites: Remco evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step), Tadej Pogacar (UAE Emirates)
- Outsiders: Jonas Vingegaard (visma | Lease a Bike), Matteo Jorgenson (Visma | Lease a Bike), Magnus Sheffield (INEOS grenadiers), Max Schachmann (Soudal Quick-Step)
- Long Shots: Florian Lipowitz (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe), Victor Campenaerts (Visma | Lease A Bike), Carlos Rodriguez (Ineos Grenadiers), Lenny Martinez (Bahrain Victorius), Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-deceuninck), Harold Tejada (XDS-Astana)
The stage 4 time trial promises to be a thrilling contest, with significant implications for the overall standings in the Critérium du Dauphiné. The combination of a challenging course, warm weather, and a strong field of contenders sets the stage for a memorable day of racing.
The Evolution of Time Trialing in Cycling
Time trialing has evolved significantly over the decades.early time trials often involved mass starts,but the modern individual time trial,where riders start at intervals,became standardized in the mid-20th century. Technological advancements, such as aerodynamic bikes, skin suits, and power meters, have dramatically improved performance. According to a study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport,aerodynamic optimization can improve a cyclist’s speed by up to 5% [1].
the Critérium du Dauphiné has a rich history of showcasing top time trialists. Past winners of time trial stages in the Dauphiné include cycling legends such as Miguel Indurain, Tony martin, and Bradley Wiggins. These stages often serve as crucial indicators of form leading up to the Tour de France.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Critérium du Dauphiné Stage 4 Time Trial
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the Critérium du Dauphiné Stage 4 time trial and should not be considered professional cycling advice.
Who do you think will win the time trial? Will the weather play a significant role? Share your predictions in the comments below and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow cycling fans!
