The fourth stage of the
Vuelta a Espana sees the peloton travel to Spain, for more familiar
roads. It’s a hilly day into Laguardia, just outside of Logroño, a warm-up for
the weeks to come as it features a very rolling terrain and a profile that will
lead to a very open stage where a lot can happen.
Late attacks can succeed, but a reduced bunch sprint with the GC riders
is also expected. The first third of the stage is relatively flat, the last two
features some small climbs, but nothing too hard.
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España stage 4. At least 500 Euro in prizes! Stage 4: Vitoria-Gasteiz - Laguardia, 15.2Km
The main and most important of the day will be the Puerto de Herrera. It
summits with only 14.6 kilometers to go and features bonus seconds at the top
which may be to the liking of some. It’s a tricky climb, 6.9Km at 5.1%, but the
first half features several sections above 10%. It’s very inconsistent, with a
few downhill and flat sections inbetween, but overall not a complicated ascent
for those who are used to it – although it will limit those capable of fighting
for a result.
Puerto de Herrera: 6.9Km; 5.1 average gradient; 14.6Km to go
The finale though has the potential to be more dangerous, it will be a
sharp hilltop finish in the small town, with relatively narrow roads and steep
gradients. The run-up to the ramp will be furious, so this won’t be a short
effort, however in the climb to the line it averages 8% for almost a kilometer.
One suited to the puncheurs, and the GC climbers will also have to grit their
teeth not to loose time – or win, depending on the rider.
Stage 4 Finale: 900 meters; 6.2% average gradient