Gallery: The pros recon the Strade Bianche route
Is it a Monument, isn’t it a Monument? Who knows? One thing’s for certain, Strade Bianche has become one of the most eagerly anticipated races of the season in its brief 14-year history. It has also become one of the most important races on the calendar for teams and riders alike, and as such, nearly all the teams have been out reckoning the route this week.
While the rain forecast earlier in the week is now less likely, and the heat of an August Strade is but a distant memory, the races will be no easier for it. Strade Bianche is made famous by the white dirt and gravel roads of Tuscany, but that dirt can often hide the sheer steepness of the climbs and the elevation gain on the route.
For more information on both the men’s and women’s races this weekend, check out our detailed previews here.
Then, while you wait for the racing action kick-off, check out this mega gallery of recon photos captured this week.
ALE’ BTC Ljubljana are on site and will be hoping for a repeat performance from Mavi Garci, perhaps even one step higher on the podium. 
Course knowledge is vital in a race like Strade Bianche. 
Last years winner Wout van Aert is among the favourites again, but Strade is a tough first (road) race of the season. 
Alejandro Valverde is back for another crack at Strade. 
But he clearly didn’t get the memo from Canyon. 
It’s not rubbing, it’s just the dirt – photo courtesy BORA cooking systems. 
Strade is one of the few races that attracts Classics and Grand Tour stars on an annual basis. 
Always time for a selfie. 
AG2R were not hanging about on the gravel sectors. 
The steep climbs and white roads sap speed from the legs – nothing a bit of motor pacing can’t solve. 
We just washed that car. 
Much like at Paris-Roubaix, team support staff play a key role in Strade. 
The last climb into Siena has been the decider on many occasions. 
Okay, one last selfie.
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