The extremely difficult climb to Plan de Corones included 5.3 km of sterrato—bad gravel roads touching 24 percent gradients. "It was a new experience for me," noted Contador. "I had to use a 34x30 gear. It was necessary to prevent slipping away on some parts where you could not come out of the saddle. This morning I went to check out the climb very early. Honestly, I liked what I saw. This was something for a real climber like me. After my performance of yesterday, I was more confident before the start of the race than I had been at the start of Sunday's stage."

Albert Contador continues to surprise the cycling world. "I am surprised as well," said the Maglia Rosa. "I am happy that I have reached this level with the poor preparation I had. Fortunately, the weather is not too good here. That helps me."

But there are still a few difficult stages remaining, including the final day's individual time trial, which may prove to be the race-decider. "The Giro is not over yet. I am glad that riders like Di Luca, Bruseghin and Menchov lost time, but I have to stay awake for Simoni and Ricco. In theory the final time trial suits me better than them, but some other stages still can put me in difficulties. Especially the stage with the Mortirolo can be dangerous. Fortunately, I have a strong team. I strongly belief that they all will work for the same goal: bringing that pink jersey to Milano."

General Classification after Stage 16:

1. Alberto Contador (AST)
2. Riccardo Ricco 0.41
3. Gilberto Simoni 1.21
4. Marzio Bruseghin 2.00
5. Franco Pellizotti 2.05
6. Danilo Di Luca 2.18
7. Denis Menchov 2.47

Astana Cycling Team on the web:

• Johan Bruyneel's Astana Cycling Team News
• Trek's Astana Cycling Team Website