BRADLEY WIGGINS’ HOUR record has been called into question, with the veteran cyclist accused of using a non-regulation bike and receiving inappropriate assistance from British Cycling.
Wiggins set a new record of 54.526 kilometres on Sunday, surpassing fellow Brit Alex Dowsett’s mark of 52.937km, but the latter’s coach Steve Collins reckons the 2012 Tour de France champion had some unfair advantages.
Collins’ complaints centred on Wiggins’ bike, which was specially made for the 35-year-old, and British Cycling’s support of the former Team Sky rider.
“It was a bit strange to see British Cycling, like [coach] Shane Sutton, getting so involved last night when he doesn’t work for Team Wiggins,” Collins told BBC Radio Essex.
“I’m not sure how that’s allowed.”
Dowsett’s mentor added: “One of the sad bits about it was that Bradley’s bike wasn’t in production. For attempts like that it should all be production available so you can buy it off the shelf.”
British Cycling denied they had favoured Wiggins over Dowsett.
“Sir Bradley Wiggins was helped by members of the Great Britain Cycling Team coaching staff with whom he is working in his bid to earn a place in the team pursuit squad for Rio 2016,” a statement read.
“All at British Cycling are extremely proud that British riders have broken successive records in one of cycling’s most iconic challenges, something which we believe reflects the current strength of cycling in Britain.”
Dowsett, who also indicated he is keen to overcome Wiggins’ record at some stage in his career, distanced himself from Collins’ comments.
“I had massive support from my team, Movistar. It wasn’t something that crossed my mind — I never asked British Cycling for any help, so it would be unfair of me to say either way,” the 26-year-old told BBC Radio 5 Live.
The hour record is an individual challenge where a cyclist rides as far as they can in an hour at a velodrome.
The record has been broken five times since September 2014.
