Stage 1 Preview

Stage 1
Start: Rotterdam
End: Brussels
Length: 223.5 km
Difficulty profile(1-10): 1

This stage is so flat that you can probably roll a marble down the entire course without it slowing down. This may be an exaggeration, but what isn't exaggerated is just how easy tomorrow's stage should be for the riders. Barring any treacherous weather or unfortunate accidents, I see no reason why tomorrow's stage won't end up in a bunch sprint. I also expect Cancellara to rather easily keep his yellow for another night. Expect Saxo Bank to do the early pace making, and then the teams with sprinters to take over. The last thing to look for, as with any mass sprint, is for HTC to set up their signature train at the front of the field and control the last 5 kilometers. The only thing that can disrupt this is a late attack over the top of the peloton once the field reaches Belgium. Otherwise, the question for tomorrow will be whether the man from the Isle of Man (Cavendish) will pick up his dominance where he left off last year, or will someone like the young Tyler Farrar or experienced Thor Hushovd steal it away from him. Should be a good one!
Versus picks up television coverage at 8:30 AM EST tomorrow morning.