Noe now leads the Giro by just over a minute

Noe, the oldest rider in the race at 38, now leads by just over a minute from fellow Italian Marzio Bruseghin.

The stage was won by Leonardo Piepoli, who finished 18 seconds ahead of Danilo di Luca, with Andy Schleck third.

Liquigas rider Noe said: "It is hugely satisfying to wear the pink jersey, nine years after the first time."

But he insisted his main aim is to help team-mate Di Luca, who is currently eighth, win the race.

"I am very happy. However, this will not take our minds off our main objective," he said.

"Danilo showed that he was the strongest. All the team, including myself, will be working for him."

Noe finished 10th on the 249km stage, 52 seconds behind winner and compatriot Piepoli.

"This is a like a lifetime achievement award," added the Italian, who has been a professional for 15 years but has only won four races.

The stage along the twisting Italian coast was marked by an attack by five riders, including US champion George Hincapie.

They opened a five-minute lead midway through the stage but were caught at the start of the 8.8km climb to the finish.