Historic Double Win For Trek World Racing In South Africa
At the opening round of the 2011 Downhill World Cup, Trek World Racing's Tracy Moseley (GBR) and Aaron Gwin (USA) have walked away with the leaders' jerseys of the series after a display of blistering speed, strength, and determination in front of a huge crowd in sunny Pietermaritzburg. For Tracy it was her first World Cup win in the coveted rainbow jersey of the World Champion, and for Aaron, it was his first World Cup win ever, and the first by an American male since 1999.
Aaron qualified 7th 2 days ago, but in the time between that race and today’s final, he worked with the Trek World Racing me chanics to find the ideal set up for what was going to be a much faster and drier race. His Fox suspension was perfectly dialled as was his choice of Maxxis rubber, and together with a supreme show of speed in the first and second sectors the Californian, who only started racing World Cups in 2008, scored his 8th World cup podium, but an all-important first win for his career, and his new team.
TWR Takes Double Win
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
2011 UCI WORLD CUP 1 IN PIETERMARITZBURG
For the opening round of the 2011 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup presented by Shimano, the athletes and teams have returned to Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, after a one year absence. All three disciplines are represented in the opening round - Olympic Cross-country, Downhill and Four-Cross. Contested on three continents, both the Cross-country and Downhill World Cup series will feature seven events, with the Four-Cross offering five.
From Pietermaritzburg, the disciplines split, with the Cross-country returning to Dalby, Great Britain and Offenburg, Germany in May, while the Gravity events resume in June with Fort William, Scotland, and Leogang, Austria. For July, the World Cup moves to North America, with a triple event at the classic Mont-Sainte Anne venue in Canada, followed by a Cross-country/Downhill double in Windham, New York, in the United States. August returns the World Cup to Europe for the final three races - La Bresse (France) for a stand-alone Downhill, the new Czech venue of Nove Mesto Na Morave for Cross-country number six, and the World Cup Final bringing all three disciplines back together in Val di Sole, Italy.
The Cross-country is entering a critical phase in Olympic qualifying for next year's London Games, so the competition is expected to reach new heights in intensity. The men's side will see renewed rivalry between France's Julien Absalon (Orbea) and the 2010 World Cup Champion from Switzerland, Nino Schurter (Scott-Swisspower), while Spain's Jose Hermida (Multivan Merida), who won the opening round the last time the race was in Pietermaritzburg, will wear the rainbow stripes of the World Champion through the year. For the women, Canada's Catharine Pendrel (Luna) will start the year with the Number One plate, however, she faces strong competition from Americans Willow Koerber (Trek World Racing) and Georgia Gould (Luna), as well as Italy's Eva Lechner (Colnago Arreghini Sudtirol) and Russia's Irina Kalentieva (Topeak Ergon). The Cross-country will also introduce, for the first time, separate World Cup races for the Under-23 categories.
In 2010, the crowd-favourite Downhill saw a tremendous battle for the men's title between Great Britain's Gee Atherton (Commencal) and South African Greg Minnaar (Santa Cruz Syndicate), with the lead seesawing back and forth until Atherton took the title in the final event. This year, we can expect to see both riders fighting it out again, with World Champion Sam Hill (Monster Energy/Specialized/Mad Catz) in the mix also. The women's competition was dominated by French star Sabrina Jonnier (Maxxis-Rocky Mountain) last year, but her countrywoman Emmeline Ragot (Team GR) and World Champion Tracy Moseley (Trek World Racing) will both be looking to dislodge Jonnier from the top spot.
The Four-cross will once again see perennial men's favourite Jared Graves (Yeti Fox Shox) of Australia go up against the powerful RSP four-cross squad led by Czech rider Tomas Slavik and the Netherland's Joost Wichman. Graves repeated as the World Cup Champion in 2010, however, Slavik was able to take the world title from him. On the women's side, Austria's Anita Molcik took the 2010 title from multi-time World Cup Champion Anneke Beerten (Milka Trek) of the Netherlands, so Beerten is sure to be anxious to regain her number one status.
The 2011 action starts on Friday in Pietermaritzburg, with the Four-cross.
2011 WC Round 1
From Pietermaritzburg, the disciplines split, with the Cross-country returning to Dalby, Great Britain and Offenburg, Germany in May, while the Gravity events resume in June with Fort William, Scotland, and Leogang, Austria. For July, the World Cup moves to North America, with a triple event at the classic Mont-Sainte Anne venue in Canada, followed by a Cross-country/Downhill double in Windham, New York, in the United States. August returns the World Cup to Europe for the final three races - La Bresse (France) for a stand-alone Downhill, the new Czech venue of Nove Mesto Na Morave for Cross-country number six, and the World Cup Final bringing all three disciplines back together in Val di Sole, Italy.
The Cross-country is entering a critical phase in Olympic qualifying for next year's London Games, so the competition is expected to reach new heights in intensity. The men's side will see renewed rivalry between France's Julien Absalon (Orbea) and the 2010 World Cup Champion from Switzerland, Nino Schurter (Scott-Swisspower), while Spain's Jose Hermida (Multivan Merida), who won the opening round the last time the race was in Pietermaritzburg, will wear the rainbow stripes of the World Champion through the year. For the women, Canada's Catharine Pendrel (Luna) will start the year with the Number One plate, however, she faces strong competition from Americans Willow Koerber (Trek World Racing) and Georgia Gould (Luna), as well as Italy's Eva Lechner (Colnago Arreghini Sudtirol) and Russia's Irina Kalentieva (Topeak Ergon). The Cross-country will also introduce, for the first time, separate World Cup races for the Under-23 categories.
In 2010, the crowd-favourite Downhill saw a tremendous battle for the men's title between Great Britain's Gee Atherton (Commencal) and South African Greg Minnaar (Santa Cruz Syndicate), with the lead seesawing back and forth until Atherton took the title in the final event. This year, we can expect to see both riders fighting it out again, with World Champion Sam Hill (Monster Energy/Specialized/Mad Catz) in the mix also. The women's competition was dominated by French star Sabrina Jonnier (Maxxis-Rocky Mountain) last year, but her countrywoman Emmeline Ragot (Team GR) and World Champion Tracy Moseley (Trek World Racing) will both be looking to dislodge Jonnier from the top spot.
The Four-cross will once again see perennial men's favourite Jared Graves (Yeti Fox Shox) of Australia go up against the powerful RSP four-cross squad led by Czech rider Tomas Slavik and the Netherland's Joost Wichman. Graves repeated as the World Cup Champion in 2010, however, Slavik was able to take the world title from him. On the women's side, Austria's Anita Molcik took the 2010 title from multi-time World Cup Champion Anneke Beerten (Milka Trek) of the Netherlands, so Beerten is sure to be anxious to regain her number one status.
The 2011 action starts on Friday in Pietermaritzburg, with the Four-cross.
2011 WC Round 1
Friday, April 22, 2011
2011 UCI World Cup Round 1 Pietermartizburg
The 2011 UCI MTB World Cup presented by Shimano, will open with the first event in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. We look forward to welcoming all UCI MTB Teams, National Federations and individual riders and we as the organizers and Cycling South Africa will work as hard as possible to ensure their experience will be of the highest standard.
The organizers, together with the City of Pietermaritzburg, have developed a prime piece of real estate which is almost in the centre of the city and served as the premier Mountain Bike venue in the country over the past two years. This 12 hectare piece of land boasts competition ready Cross Country, Downhill and Four Cross courses that will all be utilized at the event in April 2011.
2011 UCI WC 1
The organizers, together with the City of Pietermaritzburg, have developed a prime piece of real estate which is almost in the centre of the city and served as the premier Mountain Bike venue in the country over the past two years. This 12 hectare piece of land boasts competition ready Cross Country, Downhill and Four Cross courses that will all be utilized at the event in April 2011.
2011 UCI WC 1
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Transition TR 450 Explained
The TR450 product video gives you a complete view of the TR450 as told from the people that designed it, race on it and tune the suspension for it. See the bike in action and why it is regarded as one of the best overall downhill racing bikes around.
Transition TR 450 Video
Transition TR 450 Video
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
3 Minute Gaps Andrew Neethling
When we arrived in Somerset west to film "Needles" section it was clear it wasn't going to be a normal weeks filming for a number of reasons. First, we had to put up with a full week of Sven Martin in full panic mode every time a potential photographic moment was missed. Which resulted in us getting out of bed at 5.30am everyday for the epic morning light. Second, Andrew has the best trails and jumps literally in his own own back yard. The area overlooks both the Indian and Atlantic Ocean and is one of the most amazing places I have ever filmed. Getting a chance to hang out with Andrew in his hometown for the filming of his section was one the most memorable experiences of my life.
3 Minute Gap
3 Minute Gap
WIN THE NEW IBIS MOJO SL-R
Information About the Mojo SL-R
After five years of refinement on the Mojo SL, it was time for a full reboot.
The result is the Mojo SL-R, a sub-5 lb. (2250g) trail bike frame with the same proven Mojo/Mojo SL geometry and dw-link suspension (140 mm travel).
At the heart of it, the Mojo SL-R utilizes a new manufacturing technology that delivers a stronger, stiffer, lighter and more consistent carbon fiber structure.
In addition to this new manufacturing method, we utilized several new component standards to further optimize the design:
Tapered 1 1/8” to 1.5” head tube (Cane Creek ZS44 ZeroStack 1 1/8" top/ Traditional 1.5" bottom). Provides more precise steering control and enables the use of Cane Creek’s AngleSet for customized steering geometry.
142 x 12mm Maxle through-axle rear drop outs. Tie the rear end together providing a stout Mojo HD like swing arm and easier wheel installation.
Direct mount front derailleur, using the high direct mount standard. It delivers drivetrain compatibility for both 2x10 and 3x10. Also, eliminates the “neck-down” of the seat tube improving BB stiffness and frame strength.
BB92/Press GXP style integrated BB is lighter and stiffer.
Additional features include:
FOX RP23 with Genuine Kashima Coat and Adaptive Logic ProPedal shock standard.
Carbon fiber post-mount rear brake mounts and integrated drop outs.
Four colors: Black & Blue, Lamborine Orange, South Beach White and DB5 Silver.
The new chain suck plate has more coverage.
Same proven geometry of the Mojo SL.
Titanium fasteners abound.
Links interchangeable with Mojo SL links.
Best of all, target weight for the frame is sub 5 pounds (2250g) for a large matte clear.
Complete bike with XTR in size large 22.4lbs (10.16 kilos) w/o pedals.
Ibis Mojo SL-R
After five years of refinement on the Mojo SL, it was time for a full reboot.
The result is the Mojo SL-R, a sub-5 lb. (2250g) trail bike frame with the same proven Mojo/Mojo SL geometry and dw-link suspension (140 mm travel).
At the heart of it, the Mojo SL-R utilizes a new manufacturing technology that delivers a stronger, stiffer, lighter and more consistent carbon fiber structure.
In addition to this new manufacturing method, we utilized several new component standards to further optimize the design:
Tapered 1 1/8” to 1.5” head tube (Cane Creek ZS44 ZeroStack 1 1/8" top/ Traditional 1.5" bottom). Provides more precise steering control and enables the use of Cane Creek’s AngleSet for customized steering geometry.
142 x 12mm Maxle through-axle rear drop outs. Tie the rear end together providing a stout Mojo HD like swing arm and easier wheel installation.
Direct mount front derailleur, using the high direct mount standard. It delivers drivetrain compatibility for both 2x10 and 3x10. Also, eliminates the “neck-down” of the seat tube improving BB stiffness and frame strength.
BB92/Press GXP style integrated BB is lighter and stiffer.
Additional features include:
FOX RP23 with Genuine Kashima Coat and Adaptive Logic ProPedal shock standard.
Carbon fiber post-mount rear brake mounts and integrated drop outs.
Four colors: Black & Blue, Lamborine Orange, South Beach White and DB5 Silver.
The new chain suck plate has more coverage.
Same proven geometry of the Mojo SL.
Titanium fasteners abound.
Links interchangeable with Mojo SL links.
Best of all, target weight for the frame is sub 5 pounds (2250g) for a large matte clear.
Complete bike with XTR in size large 22.4lbs (10.16 kilos) w/o pedals.
Ibis Mojo SL-R
Monday, April 11, 2011
2011 Vienna Air King With Andy Whitman
We searched for a very long time. Vienna is a place where it can be found in these spring days. Our search was in the subway, the street and in other places, but it had to be found in the heart of the city. He's - Andy Whitman! And he likes to jump from the big jumps!
2011 Vienna Air King With Andy Whitman
2011 Vienna Air King With Andy Whitman
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
2011 Nukeproof Mega
Inspired by the explosion in Megavalanche-style Enduro DH events and evolved from a prototype that placed highly in the 2009 run of the actual event, the Mega frame is built to take the unique combinations of challenges thrown up by Enduro-style DH events and general All-Mountain adventure.
Offering 150mm rear travel and designed to match with 150-170mm forks up front the Mega is a versatile frame that combines plush descending prowess with pedalling efficiency.
Suspension-wise, the Mega uses our 'Erosion' linkage giving a smooth progressive action with a well controlled mid-stroke to avoid wallowing under pedal loads.
Main bearing pivots are contained within a bespoke CNC-machined Bottom Bracket Assembly to ensure alignment, durability and precision, while an asymmetric chainstay design gives clearance for a double front derailleur (with a 22t-36t chainring set up) and compatibility with all leading models of ISCG-05 mounted chain retention systems. Geometry is based around a 66deg head angle and 75deg seat angle, with a BB height of 13.69” for climbing and descending prowess.
A 44mm headtube standard keeps the front of the bike light, with Nukeproof headset options allowing all fork steerer option compatibility.
The Mega is available in a choice of Anodized Black, Anodized Silver and Nukeproof Yellow finishes.
Frame Weight - Medium 6.83lb or 3.1kg (without shock)
Nukeproof Mega
Offering 150mm rear travel and designed to match with 150-170mm forks up front the Mega is a versatile frame that combines plush descending prowess with pedalling efficiency.
Suspension-wise, the Mega uses our 'Erosion' linkage giving a smooth progressive action with a well controlled mid-stroke to avoid wallowing under pedal loads.
Main bearing pivots are contained within a bespoke CNC-machined Bottom Bracket Assembly to ensure alignment, durability and precision, while an asymmetric chainstay design gives clearance for a double front derailleur (with a 22t-36t chainring set up) and compatibility with all leading models of ISCG-05 mounted chain retention systems. Geometry is based around a 66deg head angle and 75deg seat angle, with a BB height of 13.69” for climbing and descending prowess.
A 44mm headtube standard keeps the front of the bike light, with Nukeproof headset options allowing all fork steerer option compatibility.
The Mega is available in a choice of Anodized Black, Anodized Silver and Nukeproof Yellow finishes.
Frame Weight - Medium 6.83lb or 3.1kg (without shock)
Nukeproof Mega
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Brendan Wins Vigo
Specialized's Brendan Fairclough Wins Vigo. The British World Cup racer has been training hard in the off-season putting in the miles on the road bike but will this all transfer easily onto the bouncy bike?
With a tail-ender preventing him from nailing a decent seeding run, Brendan has it all to play for in the final run. Will the pedaling shy pinner finally get his foot down? It certainly looks like it.
Brendan Wins 2011 Vigo
With a tail-ender preventing him from nailing a decent seeding run, Brendan has it all to play for in the final run. Will the pedaling shy pinner finally get his foot down? It certainly looks like it.
Brendan Wins 2011 Vigo
Monday, April 4, 2011
GoPro 3D Hero System
The 3D HERO System allows you to combine two 1080p HD HERO cameras into a single housing to record 3D video and photos while simultaneously recording in 2D. A synchronization cable plugs into the rear HERO Port on both cameras to join them together, enabling both cameras to record video and photos in perfect synchronization. This is a requirement for professional quality 3D and is available only from GoPro.
3D GoPro Hero
3D GoPro Hero
Friday, April 1, 2011
Greg Minnar's 2011 V-10
Steve Peat and Josh Bryceland have just taken possession of their new SRAM/RockShox equipped Santa Cruz Carbon V-10’s with carbon Enve wheels complete with lots of slick team issue products. Next week they will be racing at the second Halo BDS round in Molfre, UK aboard their new steeds, then they will promptly jump on a plane to Pietermaritzburg, South Africa where they will be caught up in a whirlwind of activities leading up to the World Cup season opener.
They spent a day building up the new bikes and Steve remarks on the new features of the bike:
"I get excited at this time every year! The feeling of surprise as to what the guys in the art department have come up with for our new graphics is great and 2011 is no exception!!! The guys have done a killer job yet again. Good old Dougie "Hatrick” Hatfield stuck most of the bike together and myself and Josh had a bit of fun putting the last bits on to see the whole bike. It then needed to be sent of to Ricky Bobby for a final race prep tune and to tighten all the bolts I had missed....ha,ha. She will be back with me soon for her maiden voyage....can’t wait as the whole thing looks awesome."
Once the Syndicate lands in South Africa they will head to Pietermaritzburg for a couple of days of photo shoots with Gary “Flipper” Perkin for Santa Cruz, then the True Collection activities start with other True Athletes Cedric Gracia, and extreme mountain skier and base jumper JT Holmes in tow. Greg is eager to see his “Syndicate Family” again and says, “I’m looking forward to being a part of the Syndicate again, and the family reunion is here at my home. There is a lot going on with the True Collection and one of the things I'm really looking forward to is meeting up with JT Holmes to do a parachute drop into the World Cup! The GM/True Athlete fan club has taken some work but is looking very good....exciting times!”
Team Syndicate V-10
They spent a day building up the new bikes and Steve remarks on the new features of the bike:
"I get excited at this time every year! The feeling of surprise as to what the guys in the art department have come up with for our new graphics is great and 2011 is no exception!!! The guys have done a killer job yet again. Good old Dougie "Hatrick” Hatfield stuck most of the bike together and myself and Josh had a bit of fun putting the last bits on to see the whole bike. It then needed to be sent of to Ricky Bobby for a final race prep tune and to tighten all the bolts I had missed....ha,ha. She will be back with me soon for her maiden voyage....can’t wait as the whole thing looks awesome."
Once the Syndicate lands in South Africa they will head to Pietermaritzburg for a couple of days of photo shoots with Gary “Flipper” Perkin for Santa Cruz, then the True Collection activities start with other True Athletes Cedric Gracia, and extreme mountain skier and base jumper JT Holmes in tow. Greg is eager to see his “Syndicate Family” again and says, “I’m looking forward to being a part of the Syndicate again, and the family reunion is here at my home. There is a lot going on with the True Collection and one of the things I'm really looking forward to is meeting up with JT Holmes to do a parachute drop into the World Cup! The GM/True Athlete fan club has taken some work but is looking very good....exciting times!”
Team Syndicate V-10
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