Meanwhile, banned Italian cyclist Pietrio Caucchioli has decided to challenge the validity of the “biological passport” test used in his case. This comes just days after fellow countryman Franco Pellizotti was cleared of doping charges on the basis of insufficient evidence from biological passport data. Pellizotti’s lawyers argued the biological passport is not a reliable mechanism. If Caucchioli succeeds it could further cloud use of the bio passport for dope detection — in and of itself, at least. It still may find utility for casting suspicion on a rider’s performance — which then followup blood testing could confirm.

The New York Times and Associated Press reported that traces of a plasticizer used in IV bags were found in Contador’s blood samples, indicating that he might have used a transfusion to refresh his blood during the Tour. Removing one’s blood, storing it and then replacing it with a clandestine transfusion is a documented way of cheating while eluding doping controls.

A Contador blood sample earlier was found to contain minute amounts of clenbuterol, an aerobic aid also considered a performance-enhancer. Contador contends he ate beef contaminated with the substance, but insiders remain skeptical.

Meanwhile, disgraced Tour champion Bernhard Kohl continues to note that in today’s climate it’s impossible to win without cheating.

So why not just sit it out holding your head high?

Instead the 3-time Tour de France winner, who we still contend did not deserve to win the 2010 title, is doing a Barry Bonds-style press tour that begs Shakespearean interpretation (as in methinks thou dost protest too much).

Tainted beef gave him the suspect reading, Contador contends. And if cycling authorities don’t take his word for it, he’ll quit in a hissy fit of whining pique.

If this is not resolved favorably and in just fashion then I would have to consider whether I would ever get back on a bike …

If the Sullen Spaniard is so sure of his innocence, why not just let the science play out and, once vindicated, let the result speak for itself?

Pro cyclists could really use a press agent or two. They seem clueless as to how they come across to a public long fed up with giving them the benefit of the doubt.

Not much is known about the substance, clenbuterol, and Contador reportedly contends that food contamination is the only possible source.

Reaction is low key so far.

If Contador is found in violation and stripped of his Tour title, it hopefully will go to Andy Schleck, who deserved the overall win anyway.