Flat Stages: Why are they hated so fervently?

[datalore]

The closer an event is to the course of a race like Flanders, the more likely it is that I'll enjoy it. I want to see a mix of road surfaces and a few tough climbs at critical points in the race.

 

[slartiblartfast]

In Australia if you are watching live coverage of a European road race it will be in the middle of the night. If the course is flat and basically nothing is happening chances are you will go to sleep, wake up a few minutes later and it will all be over! Usually it is only worth watching the highlights package.