Tour de France 2025 Stage 18: O'Connor and Climbs into the Clouds

Stage 18 stretches 171.5 kilometers from Vif to Col de la Loze, challenging cyclists with three HC climbs. The final 26.2 kilometer stretch averages a 6.5% gradient, hitting double digits in sections. Ben O'Connor is riding a Giant Propel Advanced SL, optimized for both aerodynamics and climbing. He may adjust his gearing to a more leg-friendly 54/40, 11-34T setup for the mountain stages. Other riders, like Tadej Pogacar, have opted for lighter, stripped-down versions of their bikes for climbing. O'Connor acknowledges the dominance of riders like Pogacar and Vingegaard but remains focused on stage opportunities.

Stage 18 features 5,500 meters of vertical gain and includes three Hors Catégorie climbs.

O'Connor is targeting breakaway opportunities, particularly on Stage 19, and prefers to be in a group of committed riders.

– Stage 18 of the Tour de France 2025 is a critical stage for climbers and breakaway specialists.

– Ben O'Connor is aiming for a stage win after his GC hopes diminished.

– Key climbs include Col du Glandon, Col de la Madeleine, and Col de la Loze.

– The stage will test riders' endurance and climbing abilities.

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