Stage 8 of the 2012 Tour de France is 157.5 rolling kilometers from Belfort to Porrentruy, a trip over seven categorized climbs that offers the best chance so far for a determined breakaway. Things get underway almost immediately, with a Category 4 climb just 20km in. A Cat 3 climb follows, leading into four Cat 2 climbs stretched through the stage, and finally wrapping up with a steep climb up the Col de la Croix just 16km from the finish.
Young riders, those on teams that haven't made a mark yet, and French riders looking to impress the home fans will all have their eyes on a Stage 8 victory. That said, there are plenty of veterans on the Tour who know just when to time an attack on a stage life this. The stage is anyone's to win, but whoever takes it will need their legs.
Television Coverage: NBC beginning at 5 a.m. PT
Streaming Coverage: Online Streaming via NBC Sports, with subscription.
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