The Giro d’Italia Peloton Has Been Riding so Easy That Even We Could Have Kept Up

The opening stages of the Giro d’Italia have seen a remarkably subdued peloton, with VeloNews reporting average power outputs barely exceeding 180 watts. This translates to an unprecedentedly slow pace, particularly for a Grand Tour, where the early days are typically marked by aggressive fighting for position and breakaways. The phenomenon has been observed across multiple stages, leading to speculation about the underlying causes and implications for the race's dynamic.

This uncharacteristic lethargy stands in stark contrast to the "high-speed revolution" that has defined modern cycling, where average speeds and power outputs have steadily climbed. Historically, early Grand Tour stages, especially in the absence of significant GC threats, often feature spirited attacks and a higher tempo. The current Giro's pace suggests either an unspoken agreement, a collective energy conservation strategy ahead of tougher mountain stages, or perhaps a reflection of the current crop of riders' tactical preferences, which prioritises control over early-race fireworks.

While a slower start might conserve energy, it also risks dulling the spectacle. One hopes this isn't a new trend, lest the Grand Tours become mere processions before the final week.