Lemond is heavier than Contador, so compare w/Kg vs just watts- and Contador crushes Lemond and everyone else. Plus with decreased power as the tour goes on- I don't see how his statements would support an off the charts Contador. The interview appears to be a couple years old. As to who uses drugs and doesn't- I assume all professionals act professionally and use any method they can to get their best performance for their team, sponsor, and family- whether today, or in Lemond's day or in Merckx's day or Coppi's day, etc. I've read many, many, many accounts of Sunday's stage- where riders give their thoughts and feedback- and I couldn't find one statement that thought Contador's feat was beyond normal limits. Obviously a sign (to me) that the field is level- the mafia omerta is strong as ever, and the riders are still at the most 'professional level' (i.e. all doing what they can do - to be the fastest cyclists they can be). Just like a baseball or football player would do. I don't fault any of the cyclists for the system they are in- or their choices- it's just the way it is- in Pro Tour- and they are working hard, paying their bills, having a family- just like us. MOst people on boards- are armchair followers of sport- and yes- lots of people here ride- but how many have ridden 500 miles in a week- let alone 800 miles in a week- climbing thousands and thousands of vertical feet. I think many would have a different perspective on 'ethics and sport' if they actually had to do what these riders do. I am a very much by the book person- feel that I am highly ethical, yet- I have ridden 500 mile weeks (and can't even imagine 800-900 mile weeks)- and if my income and career depended upon it and if it was my work- I would do exactly what the top cyclists are doing to prepare. As the research clearly shows- doping can increase performance and wattage by 20% and help recovery much more. When times are only several % apart for the entire peloton- there is only ONE choice a pro can make to be a pro and compete (within the time cut off limits and not be kicked out for being too slow). Luckily- I only ride for fun (don't remotely have the genetics) and don't have to face their reality.


This is an interesting historical chart- and backgroup on the performances
http://www.sportsscientists.com/...power-estimates.html