Simon Yates Crash on Taiwan KOM Challenge 2023
Simon Yate commented on his participation in Taiwan KOM Challenge 2023. The interview was publish on Taiwan Giant Youtube channel.
The pro cyclist discussed a crash he experienced during the neutralized zone of the 2023 Taiwan KOM race. As he was approaching the end of the neutralized zone, there was a small crash in front of him, causing him to stop suddenly.
Simon Yates’ damaged Giant bike
About 10 riders in front of him crashed. He pressed the brake, but the rider behind him didn’t notice. Yates didn’t sustain any injuries but his frame and rear wheel were damaged (frame structure and a three spokes).
Due to the huge peloton of 700 riders still present during the race, he was unable to quickly change his bike. His support car took too long to catch back. When it did, it was already too late to proceed with an exchange of bike without risking to completely be distanced from the race leaders.
To avoid any more risk damaging his bike, he had to only use his front brake in some of the descending slopes. Yates explains that the climb was the highest he had ever done and that he was already in pain in his legs while he feared mechanical issue.
He further commented that during times of difficulty, it’s important to focus on fueling and hydrating yourself to maintain your energy levels, and to take care of yourself until the very end. After completing the final 10 km, Yates advised that riders can use every last bit of energy they have to complete the challenge.
It is hard to say that the bike accident cost him the win. but the race was in the end won by Benjamin Dybal (Australian veteran with Victoire Hiroshima). He broke the race record time held by Vincenzo Nibali since 2017 by more than three minutes.
See the full interview below:
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