Stage 8 of the 2012 Tour de France could certainly be a back-breaker for many riders on Sunday. The route takes them from Belfort to Porrentruy, a 158 kilometer ride through the Jura Mountains. This stage also moves the race into Switzerland for one day, as the latter part of the course features a border crossing.
The riders face seven climbs, which increase in difficulty as they appear. The first climb comes at Côte de Bondeval, a Category 4 just 20 meters into the start of the day. At the 32nd kilometer, Côte du Passage de la Douleur challenges the riders on a Category 3 climb. The next four climbs are all listed as Category 2 challenges, coming in at 6.1 percent and higher.
The final climb comes at Col de la Croix. The 3.7 kilometer climb comes at the 141.5 kilometer and offers a 9.2 percent gradient. This is a Category 1 climb. The final 10 kilometers leading into Porrentruy will be a flat ride for the cyclists, but don't expect a sprint finish.
Bradley Wiggins picked up the yellow jersey on Saturday, but will he be able to hold it for more than just one night?
Start time: 5:00 a.m. MT
Expected finish time: 9:11 a.m. MT
TV: NBC will have live coverage beginning at 6:00 a.m. MT
SB Nation Denver is your source for 2012 Tour de France updates on Team Garmin-Sharp, and be sure to visit cycling blog Podium Cafe as well.
