Garfoot will ride in cycling time trial

Australian cyclist Katrin Garfoot remains downcast about her prospects in the Olympic road time trial, saying she will now ride for the experience.

The Australian team confirmed on Monday that Garfoot would ride in Wednesday morning's race against the clock at Pontal.

After winning the national title in January, Garfoot said she wanted to contend for the gold medal in Rio.

But the German-born rider fell ill after training at altitude and was effectively forced off her bike for three weeks ahead of Rio.

The 34-year-old withdrew early from Sunday's road race, as planned, but later was pessimistic about how she might perform in the time trial.

"I didn't feel that great on the road, so I hope I can turn it around mentally and focus on the positive things, what I can learn on Wednesday," she said.

"I haven't had any training really for three weeks, so I feel like I had a holiday."

Asked what she might not be able to do in the time trial, Garfoot smiled and said: "enjoy the ride".

"I hope I can learn something and just enjoy being here, taking part," she said.

Rohan Dennis remains a medal contender in the men's time trial.