Giro 2014: Stage 8 Favourites: A day for the mountain goats

Saturday, May 17th, 2014 -174 kilometres from the center of the Foligno Mountains to Montecopiolo. 17 of the last 19 kilometres are uphill. In short, a day for the climbers. (Slideshow route/profile)

Not an easy finale to predict today but given the irregularity of the final climb, it seems set for a thoroughbred climber like Quintana to take the stage.

There will be plenty looking to hang on to the Columbian, one being his compatriot Uran. Wilco Kelderman will also need to be close by if he is to keep his GC ambitions intact.

It could be a tough one for the Aussie Evans if there are constant accelerations from the bunch, however his win in Trentino shows he’s in good shape. He’s also been the most impressive rider to date in the Giro and while some have questioned BMC’s tactics in riding after the stage 6 crash, it could also be argued that benefited from smart racing when they knew a dangerous roundabout lay ahead.

Another golden oldie looking to impress will be Ivan Basso. The Cannondale rider is quietly going about his business and remains in the top 10 going into today’s stage. Come Saturday evening, we’ll know if he can burn off his competitors like he did in 2010.

Watch out as well for Cunego, Rolland and Hesjedal. All are capable climbers and look to be in good shape so far.