Back in their rooms, the riders may phone home, watch television or read.

It is also a good time to look over the race manual for the next stage.

But sleep is beckoning, usually by 2300 at the latest, and soon they will have to start the routine all over again.

There is one consolation: they are one day closer to Paris and the Champs Elysees.

Our guide to the rider's day is Sean Yates, former British stage winner and Tour leader. Sean recently helped set up iteamNova.com.