The Team Time Trial (TTT) returns for the first time since 2005, and gone are the goofy rules limiting maximum time losses. That means the climbers’ teams can’t coast—and the weaker teams could lose minutes over the 38 kilometers. The course is not exceptionally technical save for a large number of roundabouts (many near the end) that may sap speed from teams that don't hold tight on the turns. A little bit of moisture on race day could wreak havoc on the best laid plans.

Betting Line: The stage is about team strength and cohesiveness.  Armstrong’s Postal team ruled for this stage for three years, but Astana's formidable talent may not be enough to hold off TT powerhouses like Garmin-Slipstream and Columbia.

Note: Stage route, exact start/finish, and sprints/climbs have been approximated from information provided by LeTour.com. Actual stage may vary slightly.

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