Stage 6 took us from Lisieux to Vitre, the route was 189KM. We were looking forward to a stage under 200KM. This would be a stage we could finish in less than 7 hours.

Since we finished in Caen yesterday, we had to drive in the morning about 45 minutes to Lisieux. Looking at the route map, I can see we are starting to make progress, we have made it across northern France now.





Today’s stage started with overcast skies. It was cool about 72 degrees. I welcomed the cooler weather and if that meant rain to cool things even more, so be it. Riding in 90 degree weather for 6-8 hrs zaps all your energy.

The day called for rain, and sure enough, within an hour or so of riding we get some sprinkles, then turns into a steady rain. It was not too bad, probably lasted an hour or so; just enough to call for jackets and wear them for a bit.







The familiar wind was still there, although at least we did get some tailwind sections. But the prevalent direction was cross winds. We have a strong group riders, so riding in the wind is doable. Everyone takes their turns at the front and we keep an even pace. The flags, which seem to be very common in this area, help us see the direction of the wind and we can quickly adjust the draft line.





As we go through our pulls, this time we are riding two upfront, I start to think about our speed. How fast are we riding this tour? We are out there 8 hrs it seems most of the time (riding time, not including the lunch or nature break stops). The shorter days are about 6 hrs.

We are averaging 18+ miles an hour. As I think about it, I realize the pace is uniform. Everyone takes their pull, the stronger riders are out in front longer, but we keep the same speed regardless who is up front. There are no sudden accelerations, or slowing the pace down.

Since all riders can keep the pace, this is very doable, the echelon just changes rider locations every so often. It looks pretty cool, like pros on an easy training ride. There is no sprinting for signs or markers (which we have plenty). We all are mindful that this is an endurance event, not a group ride where we can hammer at will. There will plenty of energy needed when we hit the mountains and our 8hr rides, become 9-10hrs.