A look at the profile tells the story. The real race only starts at the 135 kilometre marker. Here, as you enter Golden Gate, with so much behind you the short and steep climbs will bite. The cohesiveness of teams will be tested through these various passes.

In the closing stages the strong tactical teams will leave their weaker riders to fend for themselves as the racing snakes breakaway to chase down the final 25 kilometres. To be sure this is a tough ride with a total ascent of over 2,200 metres.