Drama gives Menchov story

The Russian showed a cool head to finish ahead of Italian Danilo Di Luca after falling at the end of his time-trial run following a downpour which made Rome's roads very slippery.

"Today's time-trial was something to tell my grandchildren about," the Rabobank rider said.

"I didn't have time to think (after the fall). I just had the information that everything was OK, there was no risk, no (need to) panic. I had information that I was half a minute ahead.

"So I just got on my bike and finished."

Indeed, Menchov actually increased his advantage over Di Luca from 20 seconds to 41 with a 10-placed finish in the final stage.

Menchov, the 2005 and 2007 Tour of Spain champion, said he was peaking and felt in good shape to have a crack at the Tour de France in July.

"I'm improving little by little. My age is perfect, 30 to 35 is perfect with the experience you have," he said.

"I know I can win the Tour, but you need to have everything - good condition, good luck, the team. I know I'm one of the best and I can win it, but I don't know if I will.

"I'm really looking forward to the Tour. We'll see. It's true that this has given me more confidence."

Menchov also paid tribute to LPR's Di Luca after the 2007 Giro winner pushed him all the way.

"It was a pleasure to dispute the race with him. We put on a great show for the public," added the Russian, who denied involvement in a doping affair on Wednesday after Austrian investigators contacted his team.

"He was a hero of this Giro and to beat a hero like him makes my achievement greater. It's been spectacular in every way. Up to now it's the most important win of my life."