The difference in crowd size at the Bergen Worlds TT compared to Doha last years is remarkable. Left, Nicolas Roche rides down the spectator-free home straight last year. Above, a section of the massive crowds on the TT climb yesterday (All photos by Sean Rowe)

Crowd size at Bergen Vs Doha Worlds TT

Yesterday's battle for the elite men's time trial world title was the best in living memory. The organisers and UCI took a chance by adding a 3.4km climb at the very end.

But it paid dividends and the crowds and TV audience were treated to some fantastic racing.

Was Doha TT worst supported Worlds event ever? Looks like it

Crowds thronged the roadsides, especially on the Mount Fløyen climb. The atmosphere was electric and Tom Dumoulin produced a performance worthy of the occasion.

He won by 58 seconds from Primoz Roglic; a staggering margin over 31km. Team GB’s Chris Froome took bronze.

It was all a far cry from the Doha World Championships last year.

Back then the TT route was deserted. Very few cycling fans seemed to travel to Doha last year and the locals seemed to have no interest.

The scorching temperatures certainly didn’t help, of course.

And after seeing yesterday’s crowds compared to those of Doha, it’s unlikely the UCI will experiment again anytime soon when awarding future championships.