In cycling, nothing is ever truly predictable, but most big races start with the fans, riders and directors having at least some idea of how things will play out.
The Tour of Flanders will be extremely selective, Strade Bianche will be decided on the steep, gravel sectors, Liège-Bastogne-Liège will be won or lost on the three final climbs. The racing is rarely completely formulaic, but these events have been going for years, the pattern is clear, the general way to win is understood by everyone.
