So who would have the better chance of breaking the record if both were to tackle the hour record?
If time trial speeds are taken, the pair – along with the likes of Tony Martin (Omega Pharma-Quickstep) and Taylor Phinney (BMC Racing) – regularly exceed 50km/h averages on the road – which, of course, is exactly what it would take to set a new mark.
The key, however, is not simply to beat current record-holder, Sosenka, but to set a mark their rivals can not match.
With four world time trial championships to his name, Cancellara has the edge there – though Wiggins is, of course, Olympic champion.
Wiggins’ advantage comes with his track background however, and his phenomenal success achieved on the boards.
The British pursuit king, before he switched to the road, would surely start as favourite if both were to tackle the hour record on the type of low profile machine on which he soared to Olympic glory.
As for the likes of Martin and Phinney – the former in particular is untouchable at his time trialling best, with his three world titles testament to that.
As one of the peloton’s in-form riders, Martin could well add to his tally and spend a fourth year in the rainbow stripes, matching Cancellara’s achievement. Martin would be, unquestionably, a serious contender over 60 minutes on the track.
However, the German’s success has come entirely on the road – long courses, with some technical sections, rather than the continuous circuit of the boards.
There is little doubt that we are living through a golden age for men’s road time trialing. Cancellara, Martin, and Wiggins would take their place alongside any who have gone before.
The prospect of these specialists in the chrono tackling the hour record is mouth-watering. Should any or all of them decide to do so, their decision is likely to be hugely popular and generate significant interest in the sport.
