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.
"For my team, the bikes and equipment must be perfect. During my visits to Specialized, I have met with the engineering team and ridden the materials personally. I am very impressed with Specialized bikes, equipment and the Specialized development process overall. I know we will push Specialized to constantly improve, and I know Specialized will make the materials that will help us win races," Riis said.
Saxo Bank get the BG fit treatment
Okay I appreciate that Specialized had two Teams last year, and by no means are they the first to sponsor two top flight Teams at the same time, an honour which (to my knowledge) Colnago can claim. But it it is the first time when in those two Squads that you have genuine contenders for all the Spring Classics. Both Boonen and Cancellara's list of target races pretty much read the same for the first half of the season.
Tom Boonen talks 08 and 09 objectives
In the final 30 km of the race you can be sure that there will be at least one member from each of these Teams in the final cut. It'll make for some interesting pub talk once the race season has started and the wins have been decided.
Andy Pruitt talks about the improvements that BG fit will give the riders
No that's not some special white spokes on the Team bike, its snow. With temperatures of – 8 degrees registered, Steven de Jongh hit the road for his daily training. That's what it takes to be a PRO.
Foto's ©tdwsport
Thankfully at least the two Teams will be using different components for their drivechain and shifting duties. At least the Shimano/Campag debate will continue to be fuelled with maybe a little fervour especially if these Teams finish a one two in a race. Roll on the season I say.
