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Yes an old 8 speed hub converted, more info speak to Sean at www.italiancyclingtours.com

Specialized Sponsor two of the Worlds Top Teams

When it was announced after the Tour that CSC (that was) would be switching from long time sponsor Cervelo to Specialized it raised a few eyebrows, or at least mine. Technically Cervelo make some of the most advanced bicycle out there, so it must require a lot of confidence in the product to switch brands. Okay I know there will be an element of money involved, but Barjne is a bike geek, least not we forget that this is the rider that introduced the world at large to Leightweight Wheels when nobody had heard of them.

I find it strange that a man who says that Roubaix is crazy has raced Flanders before, and now in his come back year is scheduled to ride it again. Why I am not sure, maybe the lure of the cobbles has drawn him also and he is looking to add his name to the small list of riders who have won a Grand Tour and The Tour of Flanders.

For the record, my money is on Cancellara if wet, and Ballan if it is dry.

The Worlds most successful men's and women's Team show off their new toys

Columbia's Team launch has just taken place, showcasing new sponsors and riders. Bob Stapleton has performed a miracle with the team not seen since the man from Galilee was around. The team had been given the last rights on more than one occasion, T-mobile to Columbia has truly been a Damascus road experience. From dopers to do gooders it has been a great journey so far. What is encouraging for the sport, through it's open anti drugs policies, is that it shows that you can perform at the highest level and win CLEAN.