The second stage of the 2015 Tour de France runs 166kms from Utrecht to Zelande. This is a pancake flat stage that seemingly plays in the favor of the sprinters with only a 6 meter gradient on the day.
The most unique aspect of this stage is the finish on Neeltje Jans, reclaimed land along the surge barrier of this Low country, that the race organizers are dubbing a “finish line in the sea”. This could spoil the fun for the sprinters as echelons are highly probable. Regardless, at 80kms, there is an intermediate sprint in Rotterdam.
Let’s not forget that sadly, the first week usually marks a lot of jittery legs causing a touch of wheels. Let’s hope that everyone stays safe! Lets also see if the return of time bonuses makes any impact on GC!