AFTER two days, a longer stage is offered for the peloton which heads South into the state of Johor via Merlimau and Sungai Rambai. This undulating stage right from the start could take its toll on the bunch, prior to the first intermediate sprint in Muar.

The peloton is expected to be broken up by early attacks again due to the undulations, but could reunite heading into Bukit Pasir, Pagoh, Langa and Bukit Kepong before a category 4 climb in Kesang.

Undulations return after that point and there could be a real chance of a breakaway victory should there be a strong number of escapees prior to the third intermediate sprint in Sagil. From then on the peloton moves north, back into Malacca, via Chin Chin, Simpang Bekoh and Jasin.

This stage offers the possibility for changes in both the points and overall classifications.