CyclingRevealed's First Impressions '05

Stage 5 - Chambord to Montargis, 183 km

SOME routine

Today's stage was flat and featured a long break which was caught shortly before the finish. The predictable bunch sprint was won by Robbie McEwen. Many would look at this as a routine day in the Tour. This may be so but just consider what the peloton is doing.

Most club cyclists would consider 183 km (114 miles) to be a relatively long ride. After such a day out a few days of rest, and maybe even a day off the bike, would be in order. For the Tour this distance represents an average road stage. Also of course they repeat the exercise most days for three weeks.

As the race cruised through the French countryside the riders appeared to be making little effort yet they were averaging 48.5 kph (30.2 mph). Thus far the race is heading towards a new overall average speed record. Most club riders congratulate themselves on completing a 162 km (100 miles) ride at 32.2 kph (20 mph). On our club rides we occasionally have the distinct pleasure of a Pro-Tour rider join our club rides. Typically our average speed for the day will be elevated by about 6 kph (3-4 mph) and our distinguished guest would have spent the whole ride at the front happily chatting away as the rest of us attempt to hold the pace. It is at times like that you truly appreciate the chasm between the elite pro bunch and the rest of us.

For the majority of the peloton, Stage 5 would have been one of active recovery. For Zabriskie and any other rider nursing injury or less than optimal form, today would have been a welcome lull in hostilities that gives them a chance to ‘convalesce'.

Tomorrow: a lumpy 199 km (123.6 miles) with four Cat 4 climbs. Another routine day. Some routine.

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