Urán's time of 57 min 34sec gives him a 37 second lead over Evans in the general classification as the Aussie rolled in third, 1:34 behind the Omega Pharma-Quick Step rider, with Lampre Merida's Diego Ulissa finishing second, 1:17 behind the Colombian.

Urán's win was his first of the Giro d'Italia and means he becomes the first Colombian to lead the famous Tour.

"It's incredible, I'm really surprised," a clearly delighted Urán said after the stage.

"I didn't think that I would win it.

"It's a great day for my team and myself.

"I've been doing a lot of work of the winter.

"I was fourth in Romandie, which was a good sign.

"I am really surprised."

Cadel Evans had a disappointing ride as he lost his race lead after finishing the time trial third, 1:34 behind Rigoberto Urán ©AFP/Getty Images

Evans went into the stage with a 57-second advantage over Urán.

He was expected to extend that advantage or at least maintain it, however, the Australian had a terrible day in the saddle, as he struggled to negotiate the drying roads

Pole Rafal Majka of Tinkoff-Saxo solidified his position in the top three with a strong performance.

Movistar's Nairo Quintana, who has been suffering with injury and a cold, lost yet more ground on the maglia rosa and is now 3:29 back on his compatriot.

The biggest loser of the day was Cannondale rider Ivan Basso, of Italy, who crashed during the rain-affected stage and dropped out of the top 10.

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