Denis Menchov crashes in Tour de France team time-trial; Armstrong’s Astana among favorites

Menchov crashes during Tour team time-trial

MONTPELLIER, France — Giro d’Italia winner Denis Menchov of Russia crashed during Tuesday’s fourth stage of the Tour de France but got back on his bike without any serious injuries.

Menchov was behind a Rabobank teammate when he misjudged a left turn and skidded into the barriers shortly after the start of the 24.2-mile team time-trial in and around Montpellier.

The Russian was in 56th place overall before the start of the very technical stage, 2 minutes, 12 seconds behind race leader Fabian Cancellara.

Menchov also crashed in the last individual time-trial of the Giro.

Seven-time champion Lance Armstrong could take the yellow jersey with a strong performance.

Caisse d’Epargne riders started first in the fourth stage of the Tour, while Armstrong’s Astana team is scheduled to start last. Overall, Armstrong is in third place, trailing race leader Fabian Cancellara by 40 seconds. Tony Martin of Germany is second, 33 seconds back.

Armstrong took advantage of a late breakaway during Monday’s third stage to move up to third place while his rival and teammate Alberto Contador and other favorites were trapped in the peloton. Contador is fourth overall, 59 seconds back.

It’s the first time since 2005 the riders compete in a team time-trial during the Tour de France.

Other teams expected to contend for the stage win included Garmin, Columbia and Cancellara’s Saxo Bank.

The Tour ends July 26 in Paris.