Cairo, Egypt – Professional cyclist Thomas De Gendt faced a serious crash during stage five of the UAE Tour. The Belgian rider, competing in his final season, fell mid-stage and landed hard on the pavement. Fortunately, he passed a concussion test and was able to finish the stage with only minor cuts and bruises after receiving assistance and a spare wheel from fellow riders at Soudal-Quick Step.

The incident, which sparked surprise and concern among cycling enthusiasts, raised questions about the compatibility of De Gendt’s hookless tire and rim combination. While the exact cause of the crash remains unclear, it is speculated that a mismatch in dimensions between the tire and rim may have led to the tire suddenly detaching from the rim, causing the fall.

De Gendt took to social media to express his gratitude to the Soudal team for their assistance and to inquire if anyone had footage of the crash. The video footage of the incident on a wide, smooth highway showed no apparent debris or road obstacles, further suggesting a potential issue with the tire and rim combination.

The use of a Zipp 353 NSW rim and a 28 mm Vittoria Corsa Pro tire by De Gendt’s team, Lotto-Dstny, raised concerns about compliance with ISO standards on tire-rim compatibility. The recent update to ISO standards mandated a minimum tire width requirement for specific rim dimensions, highlighting the importance of ensuring proper tire and rim combinations for rider safety.

The industry’s focus on wider tires for improved performance led to a discussion on the significance of internal rim width in relation to tire selection. Experts emphasized the need for riders and teams to adhere to ISO standards and consider factors such as tire pressure and compatibility to prevent accidents like the one experienced by De Gendt.

While the debate on hookless tire and rim combinations continues, there is a growing recognition of the importance of following safety standards and guidelines in the cycling industry. As teams and riders adjust to evolving technologies and trends, it becomes essential to prioritize compatibility and safety to prevent potential risks and accidents on the road.