Team Sky sponsor explains why Gianni Moscon's wheel collapsed in dramatic TTT crash

Pro puts the blame on the team using a tyre which was too narrow for the wheel

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Team Sky wheel sponsor PRO has explained why Gianni Moscon's front wheel collapsed catastrophically on stage one of Tirreno-Adriatico.

After what it described as a thorough investigation, the Shimano subsidiary said that the wheel collapse was due to Team Sky mechanics fitting a tyre which was too narrow for the wheel.

"PRO conducted a thorough investigation to replicate the circumstances, to examine its strict safety standards and to ensure that the safety of riders remains the highest priority," the company said in a statement.

>>> Gianni Moscon's front wheel collapses in bizarre crash during Tirreno TTT (video)

"The investigation concluded that the 3-spoke wheel is completely safe to continue racing. The incident occurred because the rider hit a pot hole at high speed on a tyre that did not meet the minimum tyre width specification as advised by PRO.

"PRO advises all customers and riders using its 3-spoke time trial wheel to choose a minimum recommended tyre width of 24mm (622-24), to inspect the wheel for damage following impact and to stop riding in the event of a puncture."

The incident took place in the opening stage of Tirreno-Adriatico, with Moscon crashing hard midway through the team time trial.

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Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.