Looks like a good all-round route compared to recent Tours. Two proper individual time trials in Stages 13 (37 km) and 18 (17km), the latter of which is an uphill course. No team time trial either which won't be missed by many people. As is usual now the mountain stages continue right up to the penultimate stage, and there is no shortage of mountain top finishes throughout the race. Some potential for crosswinds and tricky descents are included for that 'classics' feel as well.

The profiles of the non mountain stages don't seem to be available but Cav reckons that there may be more sprint opportunities compared to the 2015 route. More bunch sprints doesn't make for more exciting racing but not having the customary showdown between the best sprinters was a shame this year. We won't know until the profiles are released for those stages. There doesn't seem to be anything to complain about with something for everyone, except the absence of any time trials in the first week makes it difficult for the likes of Tony Martin to claim an early Yellow jersey.

The Giro route is unsuprisingly challenging, with three individual time trials and a copious amount of climbing. Nibali has opted to target the Giro rather than Le Tour, with Aru going for Le Tour. Contador is looking forward to watching the Giro on TV, and Froome is obviously all in for Le Tour. No word from Quintana but I would be shocked if Le Tour wasn't his priority.