Giro 2015: Stage 18 Favourites - Adventurous climbers and bold descenders

In the 18th stage of the Giro 2015, it’s up to the climbers with brilliant descending skills. 130 kilometres flat, 20 kilometres uphill, and a 25 kilometres drop – that’s the story of the day. (Slideshow route/profile)

After a flat stage Monte Ologno is the only obstacle. Upon cresting, halfway down the slopes the long drop is interspersed by a short climb and then it’s blasting down again.

The stage is a godsend for adventurers, so it will probably take some time before the early break is a fact. Indeed, all teams want to be there. Climbing up Monte Ologno the front group shall be reduced and only the best climbers will be left to go for glory in the long drop. Obviously, bold descenders who were dropped will want to give it a go also.

Likely candidates are numerous. Stefano Pirazzi, Simon Clarke, Maciej Paterski, Oscar Gatto, Francesco Gavazzi, Adam Hansen, Giovanni Visconti and Tom Danielson – to name a few.

Steven Kruijswijk is among the strongest attackers in the Giro and he deserves a win. Michael Rogers, head of Contador’s ‘specials forces’, is another likely candidate if his leader gives him a day off.

*** Simon Clarke, Michael Rogers, Steven Kruijswijk
** Oscar Gatto, Francesco Gavazzi, Maciej Paterski
* Pieter Weening, Stefano Pirazzi, Adam Hansen

Look at underneath slideshow for all maps regarding stage 18.