The Other July Tour: Tour of Austria, July 6-13, 2008

Tour of Austria 2008: Who needs France?

The Tour de France is without a doubt the biggest race in the month of July each year. For that matter, it is the undisputed leader in terms of big time bicycle racing. But over the past few seasons, the Tour of Austria has distinguished itself as an alternative for top pros not riding the Tour to compete at the highest level. The eight day event features all the properties of a grand tour, but with fewer stages.

The 2008 edition will have some heavy hitters arriving to contest the event, as Quick Step's two superstars, world champion Paolo Betini and Paris Roubaix champ Tom Boonen, will be on hand as they prepare for the second half of the season. Astana will lead with newly crowned Russian time trial champion Vladimir Gusev and former Tour of Georgia winner Janez Brajkovic as they look to garner some successful results for Astana in the month of July.

Other solid riders include Rabobank's Robert Gesink, Gerolsteiner's Davide Rebellin, and LPR's Paolo Salvodelli. "Il Falco," about a month removed from the Giro, should be recharged and could make an impression in the overall standings. While last year's winner Stijn Devolder won't be at the race to defend his title, the racing should still be solid as the 18 teams entered will look to make their mark in the month of July, far removed from the clamor of the Tour de France.