Well, one thing was definitely clear today (aside from the fact that Armstrong still rides better than Ullrich, even in the time trial): Rasmussen is the unlucky one of the day. Two crashes, 5 breakdowns, and over 7 minutes caught up, that hurts. Fortunately, he arrived and he can console himself: today he will also be given a polka dot jersey.
The next Tour is already shaping up with the favorites: Ullrich and Basso right at the top of the list. Vinokourov certainly also a favorite, but definitely with a clear margin. It may be that at some point a new rider will come along - but these three are definitely in the running for the victory.
It will definitely be more interesting when Armstrong no longer starts - the favorites for next year are clearly much closer together and the battles should also become more exciting again. Ullrich and Vinokourov clearly the much stronger time trialists, Basso the much better climber - that will definitely be exciting.
Only one thing I still don't understand at the end of the Tour: why T-Mobile didn't take Zabel with them. Those idiots.