All stages of the 2019 Tour de France were modeled using the Best Bike Split performance modeling software. For non Time Trial stages the peloton was modeled as a single entity using the typical pulling power exhibited by riders at the front of the main group. Try using the Time Analysis Tool to highlight specific sections of the course that could influence race day strategy.
The 2019 Tour de France is shaping up to be another very exciting edition, and though some of the favorites are out before it begins, last year's winner Geraint Thomas returns to face a bevy of hungry newcomers anxious to step to the challenge. This year's route features some extremely challenging stages, but what makes this tour even more daunting is the clustering of repeated difficult stages back to back. There are obvious singular standouts like Stage 6 which features 7 categorized climbs including the summit finish in La Planche des Belles Filles where the race organizers threw in an added 1000 meters of steep gravel roads to the finish, as well as the iconic Alp passes of stage 18 and 19 featuring the famous Col d'Izoard and climb to Tignes respectively. However, we wanted to bring focus to Stages 12 to 15 where the tour flows through the Pyrenees and the true contenders and teams looking for GC are sure to separate themselves from the chaff.
Ultimately, the Tour can be won or lost in so many ways in any given year and that is part of what makes it one of the greatest sporting events in the world. It's fun to analyze and predict what is going to happen but like every year there will be surprises, new stories and of course excitement. We think Stages 12 - 15 will deliver on everything that makes the tour great, but that being said we know that with 1/3 of the race remaining it will likely be far from over. Please check back on the stage models as we will regularly update them for weather or tactic changes as the tour progresses.
How Best Bike Split Models the Tour de France
Best Bike Split's Tour de France stage analysis is built on the same physics-based power modeling used by athletes and coaches to plan real-world races. Each stage is modeled using route elevation data, distance, aerodynamic and rolling resistance assumptions, the same inputs that drive a Best Bike Split race plan. As race day approaches, models are rerun to pull in live weather data layers in wind speed, wind direction, temperature, and precipitation risk so the model reflects the most accurate weather predictions. The result is stage analysis grounded in watts, not just narrative, giving cyclists a more meaningful way to understand what each day of the Tour actually demands. Whether you're following the GC battle, chasing a breakaway stage, or just trying to understand why a 127 km stage to Alpe d'Huez can be harder than it looks on paper, Best Bike Split's stage modeling gives you the numbers behind the race. Create a free account to access all 21 stage workouts, scaled to your FTP and ready to load into Zwift or your training app of choice.
