The stage sets out along Lake Walen. The route runs false flat uphill until the first proper vertical metres lead to Flims. The climb is crested at kilometre 65 before the route continues false flat to the foot of the Lukmanier Pass, which is a long test. The Lukmanier amounts to 19.8 kilometres, while the average gradient sits at 3.9%. The maximum incline on the pass is 10%.
The peak is crested after 122.8 kilometres before a 40 kilometres descent brings the riders back to the valley. Shortly the route once again goes uphill and continues to do so for the last 50 kilometres. On fairly shallow gradients the riders climb to Airolo before tackling the relentless Gotthard Pass via the partly cobbled Tremola road. Although the pavé is well maintained, the climb is still a vibratory and energy-sapping experience.
The total altitude gain of the 7th stage is 4,080 metres, while the Saint Gotthard ascent accounts for 932 metres. The climb is 12.7 kilometres and the average gradient sits at 7.3%.
The first three riders on the line gain time bonuses of 10, 6 and 4 seconds, while two intermediate sprints (at kilometres 174.8 and 196.8) comes with 3, 2 and 1 seconds.
The race is expected to finish around 17.20 local time.
Other interesting reads:
– live race report
– GC after stage 6
Tour de Suisse 2019 stage 7: route, profile, videos
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