Pedal Annual 2016 by Pedal Magazine

ANNUAL 2016

Part 1

BUYERS GUIDE 2016 Road and Urban Bikes

Top 5 urban Cycling Issues

Quebec Touring Love Affair with Cycling

Golden 24 Preview All Night Long

$5.95 w w w. p e d a l m a g . c o m

Helmets CX Worlds Mike Woods Rio 2016 Games Allison Beveridge HOT RIDES

Cervelo, De Rosa, Norco, Scapin, MEC

RAPS

Registration Number 9874 Agreement Number 40064311 Printed in Canada

Pendrel, Sullivan, Tuft, Stieda, Bauer

BEYOND ROAD

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UCI Gran Fondo World Series is the new name of the UCI World Cycling Tour in which amateur and masters’ cyclists can qualify for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. If they finish in the first 25% of their age group, they are entitled to race for the coveted UCI rainbow jersey per age group. The series are accessible without a race license.

2016 CALENDAR 11-13 Sep 2015 13 Sep 2015 18 Oct 2015 11-13 Mar 2016 2 Apr 2016 22-24 Apr 2016 6-8 May 2016 26 May 2016 27-29 May 2016 29 May 2016 4-5 Jun 2016 10-12 Jun 2016 10 Jul 2016 15-17 Jul 2016 1-4 Sep 2016

Poznan Bike Challenge Amy’s Granfondo Amashova Durban Classic UCI Gran Fondo World Series Perth Forrest Grape Ride Rhodes Gran Fondo Tour Gran Fondo Denmark Road Brazil Ride Grey County Road Race L’Albigeoise Tour of Cambridgeshire Maraton Franja Niseko Classic La Leggendaria Charly Gaul UCI Gran Fondo World Championships

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Poznan, Poland Lorne, Australia Durban, South Africa Perth, Australia Marlborough, New Zealand Rhodes, Greece Helsingor, Denmark Botucatu, Brazil Blue Mt.Village, Canada Albi, France Peterborough, UK Ljubljana, Slovenia Niseko, Japan Trento, Italy Perth, Australia

Poznan, Poland Lorne, Australia

www.ucigranfondoworldseries.com

ContentS Annual 2016, volume 30, Issue 1

SPECIAL FEATURES 28

Top 5 urban Cycling issues in Canada

golden 24 preview

singletrack 6: Ride the West

Rider proﬁle: Mike Woods

Rider proﬁle: allison Beveridge

fabulous Cycling Tours near Montreal

by Chris Keam

by Paul newitt

by Catharine Pendrel

by John Symon

by Sandra Walter

by John Symon

GEAR 40

Cervélo R3 disc Bike TesT

norco Tactic ultegra Bike TesT

de Rosa idol Bike TesT

scapin ivor Bike TesT

MeC provincial Road 222 Bike TesT

2016 Road / urban Buyers guide

by Tim lefebvre

by Paul newitt

by nick Chistoff

by Tim lefebvre

by Braydon Bourne

by Peter Kraiker, Stef Kraiker, mike Sarnecki, Braydon Bourne, Paul newitt, Steve Fleck and Tim lefebvre

helmets: protecting your head by mike Sarnecki

100

COMPETITION 100

2016 Cyclocross Worlds

104

Canadian 2016 MTB preview

106

2016 uCi MTB preview

ANNUAL 2016

2016 Road and Urban Bikes

Top 5 uRBAn Cycling Issues

Helmets CX Worlds Mike Woods Rio 2016 Games Allison Beveridge

MonTReAl TouRinG Laurentian and Outaouais

Golden 24 pRevieW All Night Long $5.95 w w w. p e d a l m a g . c o m

HOT RIDES

Cervelo, De Rosa, Norco, Scapin, MEC

RAPS

Registration Number 9874 Agreement Number 40064311 Printed in Canada

Pendrel, Sullivan, Tuft, Stieda, Bauer

Pedal Ann 2016-Cover.indd 1

www.pedalmag.com

From gravel roads to mountain passes and everything in between... catch the feelin’ this olympic year. Marin Bikes

by Sandra Walter

108

2016 Track preview

109

Road 2016 Season Preview

Part 1

BUYERS GUIDE

by mike Sarnecki

by Jamie Gilgen

by Gaelen merritt

DEPARTMENTS 6 10 18 20 22 24 26 110 111 112

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3/28/16 3:13 PM

ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 3

publisher/editor Benjamin Sadavoy graphic design Wendy Pease

Proudly designed and assembled in Vancouver, B.C.

contributors Steve Bauer, Braydon Bourne, Nick Chistoff, Lisa Evans, Jamie Gilgen, William Humber, Chris Keam, Peter Kraiker, Tim Lefebvre, Gaelen Merritt, Paul Newitt, Catharine Pendrel, Laura Robinson, Mike Sarnecki, Alex Stieda, Monique Sullivan, John Swart, John Symon, Svein Tuft, Sandra Walter photographic contributions Dave Best, Blade Wheels, Fraser Britton, Cannondale Pro Cycling Team, Michal Cerveny, City of Vancouver, Cyclesport Management, Cycling Canada, Direct Energy, Russ Ellis, Felt, Freewheeling, Peter Kraiker, Kevin Light, Barry Lycett, Tony Mayer, Morning Glory Cycling Club, pedalmag.com, Catharine Pendrel, Chris Redden, Karel Renders, Rio 2016, Scott Robarts Photography, Andrew Rogers, Guy Swarbrick, John Swart, John Symon, toronto.ca, Tourisme du Quebec, Svein Tuft, Cor Vos, Bruce Zinger copy editing Claudia Brown circulation/admistration Crystal Burs

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member of We acknowledge the financial support of the Goverment of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

2016 Pedal Annual pedal, a division of 1198189 ontario inc., is published 6 times annually: Annual Buyer’s guide, spring, fashion, summer, fall, holiday, at 260 spadina Ave., suite 200, toronto, ontario M5t 2e4. the entire contents are the property of pedal Magazine and may not be reprinted or reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written permission of the publisher. Unsolicited material or contributions must be accompanied by return postage. pedal assumes no responsibility for such photographs or manuscripts. 2nd class publications Mail registration #9874, paid at 969 eastern Ave., toronto, oN M4L 1A5. if undeliverable please notify: 260 spadina Ave., suite 200, toronto, ontario M5t 2e4. U.s. ofﬁce of publication: 240 portage road, po Box 670-25, Lewiston, Ny, 14092. periodicals postage paid at Niagara falls, Ny. 2nd class U.s. publications, Usps registration #011807. return all undeliverable mail to: pedal Magazine, po Box 553, Niagara falls, Ny 14304.

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Don’t Stop Believin’ The beauty of a new season is the anticipation of what amazing stories lie ahead. The fact that it’s an Olympic year with Rio 2016 on the horizon adds a critical edge to everyone’s game, as the quadrennial cycle marks another milestone in each athlete’s career. With the new Mattamy Velodrome established, the Pan Am Games under our belt, an exciting NextGen program in place, an amazing MTB training hub at Bear Mountain and a host of emerging talent across the board, Canada seems to be at the dawn of a new era . . . a time of believing, you might say. In this vein, fans will also remember Hugo Barrette’s amazing recovery from his horrible crash at the Track World Cup in Cali, Colombia last October and the team’s touching “Don’t Stop Believin’” video to aid in his recovery. Barrette’s recent Keirin silver in Hong Kong, a career-first Track World Cup medal, signaled his triumphant return, as the heartbeat of Canada’s cycling scene is pounding with success. The Canadian women’s Team Pursuit squad’s overall World Cup title victory is part of this momentum, as are many other top performances across the board, including those yet to be told. We wish everyone a successful season ahead and the very best at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. – BAS

Canada’s hugo Barrette battled back from injury to claim silver in the men’s Keirin, a career-first Track World Cup medal in hong Kong; (above l-r) Barrette (Can), matthijs Buchli (nED), Chaebin Im (KoR).

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 7

Contributors

Gaelen Merritt Gaelen Merritt got into cycling via a woozy late-night pact made with schoolmates to “ride their bikes across Canada together when they graduate.” Upon making good on this pact, he began riding and racing with the Waterloo Cycling Club in 2012, and by 2014, he was swapping Elite-1-level O-Cup wins with his Wheels of Bloor/Graywood Developments teammates. In 2015, he competed in his first Union Cycliste Internationale events as a guest rider for Jet Fuel Cycling and began contributing to Pedal Magazine to further satisfy his passion for all things cycling. You’ll most likely find Merritt riding on the quiet Mennonite roads around Waterloo, Ont., commuting by bike year-round to his 9:00-4:00 job as a hydrogeological engineer or fighting to make the break at road-race events throughout Ontario, Quebec and the Northeastern U.S.

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Jamie Gilgen is a Professional racer with the Visit Dallas DNA Pro Cycling team and a member of the Canadian National Team in the NextGen Track program. Her career highlights include a third place at the 2015 Canadian Road Nationals, third in the 2014 Canadian Track Nationals in the Omnium and a sixth overall in the 2015 U.S. National Criterium Calendar. Gilgen calls Dundas, Ont. home, but spends approximately half of her time traveling on the road. A self-proclaimed snowbird, she spends the winter months in Tucson, Ariz. When not racing on her bike, Gilgen can be found baking bread or fiddling in her vegetable garden.

Chris Keam has worked as a writer and editor in Vancouver, B.C. since 1989. He has been involved in cycling advocacy in Vancouver since the mid-’90s and has written about many aspects of cycling, from covering professional racing to children’s safe-cycling education for Pedal, Bike Trade Canada and other cycling publications. He believes the next phase in bringing cycling back as a means of transportation will be to look beyond the borders of big cities and create better cyclists at a younger age. He’d like to see cycling options made easier for people for whom long-distance bike commuting or downtown living isn’t a desirable option! In addition to cycling, Keam has a keen interest in sustainable living trends, parenting, media issues, current affairs and local history. You can visit his blog at www.chriskeam.com. www.pedalmag.com

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out in front



BY John SYmon

Mattamy Homes

Two thumbs up for mattamy homes and founder/CEo Peter Gilgan (centre with crutches), who announced funding of $100,000 for Canada’s national track cycling team for the Rio 2016 olympics.

attamy Homes and Cycling Canada announced a one-year partnership on Jan. 21 in Milton, Ont. at the new velodrome. Mattamy Homes will become a Tier 1 partner and provide critical program funding of $100,000 for Canada’s National track-cycling team as it prepares for the 2016 Olympics on Aug. 5-21 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The support provided by Mattamy will help to deliver key resources such as technical services, sport science, logistical support as well as year-round accommodation for Canadian team athletes near the velodrome in Milton. Mattamy Homes and its founder and CEO Peter Gilgan both played vital roles in the development and construction of the Mattamy National Cycling Centre in Milton, which hosted the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games last July. The facility, Canada’s only UCI-approved 250-metre indoor velodrome, is now the home training base for Canada’s National track-cycling program and has become an invaluable asset for Canada’s cyclists targeting the World Championship and Olympic podiums. “It takes passion and dedication to compete at the level that our National track-cycling athletes do, and we’re very proud of all of them for their commitment,” said Gilgan. “To succeed, it also takes financial support and access to world-class training and facilities. At Mattamy, we’re very pleased to be able to help and to continue to be associated with cycling excellence as we support our National team on their road to Rio.” “We are indebted to Mattamy Homes for its continued and enhanced support of the National track program and the athletes who are delivering world-class performances as a result of this optimal 10 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

pedALMAg.coM

Supporting Team Canada on the Road to Rio

training environment,” said Greg Mathieu, Cycling Canada CEO. “Peter Gilgan has provided the necessary support to ensure our Olympic-bound athletes can focus on their training and performances through the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.” Also on hand for the announcement was three-time Olympic medalist Curt Harnett, as well as members of the Canadian National cycling team and para cycling team. “The Mattamy National Cycling Centre has played an instrumental role in the growing success of our program over the past 12 months,” commented Hugo Barrette, a triple-gold medalist at the 2015 Pan Am Games and an Olympic hopeful on the verge of qualifying for Rio 2016. “This additional support from Mattamy will be vital in ensuring that we have everything we need to be at our very best in Rio.” “Mr. Gilgan was a clear leader in the development of the velodrome, and we’re very grateful for Mattamy’s leadership and support here once again,” notes Harnett. Team Canada recently returned from the third and final round of the 2015/2016 UCI World Cup season in Hong Kong, where Barrette claimed silver in the Keirin, while the women’s Team Pursuit squad (Allison Beveridge, Jasmin Glaesser, Steph Roorda, Laura Brown, Annie Foreman-Mackey, Kirsti Lay and new member Georgia Simmerling) won gold and the coveted overall World Cup title. The final event of the Olympic Qualification period will be the 2016 UCI Track Cycling World Championships in London, England on March 2-6. Gilgan is a member of Les Domestiques, an Ontario riding club that played a very important background role in funding the velodrome. In 2013, he was named to the Order of Canada. Mattamy is North America’s largest privately-owned homebuilder. www.pedalmag.com

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Presented by TransRockies Events, Golden 24 will be an iconic weekend bike event with 24-hour and 8-hour mountain bike relay and solo races that will showcase Golden as a number one biking destination in the Canadian Rockies. With over 100km of single track cross country bike trails and a spectacular location, it is no wonder Golden is fast becoming the place for epic mountain biking. For more information visit www.tourismgolden.com/golden-two-four

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out in front



BY John Symon Rio 2016 Chef de Mission Threatens to Resign

Blade Wheels to Sponsor Canada’s National Team

Blade wheels

hile not yet officially announced, a relatively new cycling company, RM Cycling Products, has landed a three-year contract to provide Canada’s National Road Team with Union-Cycliste-International (UCI)-certified 50mm carbon wheels. The company claims to “provide high-quality carbon wheels at incredibly competitive prices.” Robert Milligan The company owner is Robert Milligan of Barrie, Ont., a recreational cyclist and young entrepreneur who has not quit his day job, working for the GTA (Toronto-area) police. “I needed a new challenge (in my early 40s) . . . ,” explains Milligan. “Many friends were road cycling at the time, so I went out and was hooked! Friends had told me that the vast majority of cycling products are imported from Asia, so I began the search to import my first road and mountain bike . . . and that’s how it all started. I am obsessed with bicycles and wheels. I own eight road bikes and seven mountain bikes, all brands not yet known to North America. I have folding bikes, single-speed bikes . . . the only thing I don’t own is a unicycle. All purchased directly from manufacturers in Asia. “Once I purchased my own road bike and had it shipped to Canada, my friends became interested in me bringing over bikes from Asia for them. I began figuring out how I could buy direct from manufacturers in Taiwan and China. With help from Canadian Consulate offices in other countries and research, I became the Canadian distributor for Agogo Bikes, Matrix Bikes and was importing for Trigon Bikes and cycling clothing and accessory manufacturers. My goal became focused around ‘customer choices’. Most experienced cyclists know what they want in their cycling products, and my goal was to try to make that happen for them but not break their bank. Our first website, in 2010, allowed customers to custom-build their own bike. This meant we needed to carry a large inventory of frames, handlebars, wheels, groupsets, etc., to accommodate customers’ specific orders, and it proved to be logistically challenging, given all the variables. 12 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

“In 2011, I purchased a set of carbon-fibre wheels and was disappointed at how generic and limited the custom options for wheels were. I always had a reputation, as . . . one of the first to try something different: I wanted flashy orange wheels to match my orange frame — hello, customized carbon wheels! We began working through a business plan: all online to save massive overhead costs, customers design their own wheels, four- to six-week delivery, and carry only a small amount of inventory of the most popular wheel combinations. The first set of Blade wheels were sold to a triathlete in 2013, and we officially launched Blade at the 2014 Toronto Bike Show.” RM Cycling tries to distinguish itself by claiming Blade “is the most customizable wheel in the carbon-fibre market.” The company offers 17 different decal colours; six depth options, including five-spoke and disc; two rim widths; four-spoke options with two different colours; and any combination. The company also offers carbon-alloy rims with all customizable options as well.” “We also allow customers the option to rent wheels so they can test them before they buy. The cost of carbon-fibre wheels, no matter how affordable, is still an investment, and we want customers to be confident when they make their purchase . . . we return half the cost of the wheel-rental amount when they purchase a set of wheels.” So how did Milligan land the lucrative sponsorship deal? “In late 2014, I contacted the Canadian National cycling team to discuss the requirements for wheel sponsorship. Late 2015, our 50mm carbon clinchers passed UCI standards, one of the requirements of the team. After receiving the results, I contacted them and we agreed on the sponsorship for a three-year term.” Part of RM Cycling’s strategy is to keep costs low by using the Web to bypass traditional retailers: “We buy direct from the manufacturer and sell direct to the customer. We believe in the value of Web-based business: consumers are turning to the Web for all products, why not cycling? Going forward, our focus will continue to be on selling directly to the consumer. We also hope to continue to expand our Blade promo program. We will be introducing a disc wheel that [can] be used on the track and also converted to a road disc wheel. Also coming this year is our 28mm-rim width.” For information, www.bladecarbonwheels.com.

Jean-Luc Brassard, Canada’s chef de mission for the team heading to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, is threatening to resign. At issue is the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC)’s handling of the Marcel Aubut affair, with Brassard alleging the COC is beset with omerta (a vow of silence). Aubut was president of the COC from 2010 until Oct. 2015, resigning in the wake of allegations of sexual harassment. Tricia Smith has since assumed the role of COC president. Brassard told La Presse that he is asking the COC to be transparent and to properly explain to its employees what happened. He also claims to have heard enough testimony “to make the columns of the temple shake.” Among those Brassard criticizes is COC CEO Christopher Overholt, who was apparently aware of allegations against Aubut since 2011. Brassard also spoke about the difficulties experienced by women who come forward with complaints of sexual assault.

Montreal to Host the 2017 Winter Cycling Congress The 2017 Winter Cycling Congress will be held in Montreal, Que. from Feb. 8-10. The official announcement was made in Minneapolis, Minn., where the 2016 Congress was held. Until recently, winter cycling was virtually unheard of outside of a few countries in Northern Europe. But with cycling on the rise around the world, this form of urban transportation is growing in popularity, not only in Europe, but also in Canadian and U.S. cities known for their harsher winter conditions. The Winter Cycling Congress will bring together winter-cycling enthusiasts, researchers, professionals and policymakers united in their commitment to leverage infrastructure design and maintenance to make cities more active 12 months a year. “Widespread bicycle use is, without question, one of the things that define our city. This excellent news will encourage us to keep working with our partners to strengthen our leadership in North America among proponents of four-season cycling,” stated Montreal mayor, Denis Coderre. The news was also welcomed by Marc-André Gadoury, Montreal’s spokesperson for cycling matters, and by Suzanne Lareau, president and CEO of Vélo Québec. Continued on page 18 www.pedalmag.com

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out in front BY John SYmon

Rio 2016 Preview How Prepared is Canada?

MichAL cerveNy

(above) Women’s start at Rio mTB test event (right) Rio olympic Velodrome (opposite right) Batty behind Bouchard and Pendrel testing out the Rio mTB course. (opposite far right) mTB course in Rio rio 2016

he 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil take place Aug. 5-21, and will see 14 days of cycling competitions between events in five disciplines (BMX, mountain biking, road race, road time trials and track). In fact, there is a cycling competition on 14 of 17 days during the Olympics. The cycling starts with road races on Aug. 6-7 in Fort Copacabana, followed by time trials (ITTs) in Pontal Barra on Aug. 10. The action then shifts to the track at the Rio Olympic Velodrome from Aug. 11-16, followed by BMX in the Deodoro Centre from Aug. 17-19. Mountain biking (MTB XC) completes the list from Aug. 20-21, also in Deodoro. To uncover how many riders Canada hopes to be sending and other important details, Pedal caught up with Jacques Landry, high-performance director and head coach at Cycling Canada. Landry confirms that the 2015 Toronto Pan Am Games were a good preparation for this summer: “We were pretty much using the Pan Am Games as a dress rehearsal for Rio.” Landry says that Canada has three confirmed spots in the men’s road race. There will also likely be another three spots on the women’s side, but this will not be confirmed until June 1. There is one confirmed Individual time-trial spot on the men’s side. On the women’s side, it could be one or two berths. Of note, time-trials starts come from the road-rider pool of athletes. Regarding track berths, Landry said he awaits Canada’s standing “following the London Track Worlds, March 2-6. At this point in time, Canada is mathematically solid to qualify spots for the women’s Omnium, the women’s Team Pursuit, the women’s Team sprint, the women’s Keirin, the women’s sprint and the men’s Keirin.” With BMX, “we won’t know officially until May 31, but mathematically . . . we are sitting pretty solid with one spot on the men’s side. On

the women’s side, one spot is hinged on a certain performance at the Worlds in Medellin, Colombia [May 25-29].” For MTB, the numbers should be confirmed in the latter part of May. “Mathematically, at this point in time, we are pretty solid for two spots on the women’s side and one spot on the men’s side, though a second spot on the men’s side is a possibility.” At the Rio 2016 MTB test event held last October on the 5.4km course at Deodoro Olympic Park near Rio, Eva Lechner (ITA) and Nino Schurter (SUI) took top honours. Canada’s Catharine Pendrel and Emily Batty finished sixth and 21st respectively, while Leandre Bouchard was a strong 13th in the men’s race.

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Michal Cerveny



While the final number of riders likely heading to Rio is almost completed, the team selections will likely be unveiled in June. “We are still working with the COC [Canadian Olympic Committee] to plan the official [team] announcements,” says Landry, without specifying a timetable. While excitement builds, the press is full of negative stories about the Rio Olympics that deal with Brazil’s economic malaise, still-under-construction Olympic facilities, incomplete municipal infrastructure, badly polluted water, public grumbling and the mosquito-borne Zika virus. Landry does not seem particularly perturbed by any of this; he is

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confident that the Rio Olympic Velodrome will be completed and tested long before Aug. 11. He notes, “We will be on the same footing as any other strong cycling nation with regards to knowledge acquisition about that specific velodrome. “Water is safe and will be filtered in the Village and the Olympic Park, but our athletes are used to drinking bottled water anyway. As for the Zika-virus issue, we [Cycling Canada, and the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic committees] are closely monitoring the development of this new issue. “We have not received any information, as of yet, that there are or will be any security issues, though we are confident that we can adapt to anything that comes up. If we look at the soccer [football] World Cup a couple years ago, while there were isolated events, nothing major occurred from a security standpoint. That is not to say that we should not have plans in place in the event that security issues arise.” Overall, Landry is quite optimistic about his team of cyclists: “If we continue focusing on the process and not the outcome, I would say that we have good-to-great medal-performance potential in a majority of events we are entering.” Canada’s best cycling performance at the Games was five medals in Atlanta at the 1996 Olympics.

ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 15

out in front BY Peter Kraiker

UCI Gran Fondo World Championships

ith the ever-growing popularity of gran fondos all over the world, the UCI decided this year to rename the UCI World Cycling Tour to the UCI Gran Fondo World Series, and the UWCT final to the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. In previous years, the UWCT final (World Championships) gained much popularity, with more than 2000 participants in Aalborg, Denmark last year coming from 47 different countries, a growth of more than 30% compared to the previous year. In 2012, this number was just above 500. Also the series is growing fast, with an average of 3,000 riders per qualifier event, compared to 1,700 in 2014. The UCI Gran Fondo World Series is the qualifier series for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. Riders can take part in the qualifier without a race license, and if they finish in the top 25% of their age group, they are entitled to go to the World Championships. Qualifiers and World Championships are held both in time trial and road racing over the same weekend, and riders are divided into eight different age groups for men and women starting from 19-34 and then per steps of five years to end with a 65+ group. Besides the name change, the total concept of the series is the same as before. History

Erwin Vervecken, coordinator of the series since its inception, has seen it growing over the past years. “We started in 2011 with seven qualifier events and a final with 800 starters,” he said. Last year, the series grew enormously with a few new big events, but the major change was a decision we took to make the National jersey mandatory during Worlds. This change made the World Championships much more prestigious. We were a bit afraid that the response would be negative and that we would lose riders as they had to invest in a new National outfit, but in the end, more than 99% of the riders were proud to represent the colours of their country! “The popularity of the series in Europe and Australia are in contrast with the struggle we had in North America, and especially in the 16 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

Karel Renders

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New Name – Same Great Races States, where, as of last year, we (above) Erwin Vervecken don’t have an event anymore,” (left) Start of UCI World Cycling said Vervecken. “I have learned Tour Championships in Denmark that Masters cyclists are keen to race in local lap races and that gran fondos are seen as fun events for charity, which makes it difficult to sell the new name in the States. In Europe, gran fondos are top-level events, Classical races for the masses and older cyclists. You can compare it to a big marathon. The top athletes are of a very high level going for a finish time of just over two hours, but [many are] there to finish the race and beat their time of last year. Their goal is to stay fit. It’s my ambition to spread this news in North America and make riders aware that gran fondos are top-level events and that the Masters World Championships are run as a Classical European race in one loop. Canada

“Last year,” said Vervecken, “we had our first Canadian qualifier with the Grey County Road Race, which was a big success. [Some] 105 Canadians who qualified made their way to Denmark to try for gold, which made the race the No. 4 event in the number of riders going to attend the final. If we look into the percentage of qualified riders participating in the World Championships, the Canadian qualifier was No. 2, with almost 54% taking part in the time trial and 59% attending the road race. Only the home qualifier in Copenhagen scored higher percentages. I took part in the Grey County Road Race myself, and although I had a flat tire after only 10km, I really enjoyed the atmosphere and the landscape, which is totally different from the crowded area in Belgium where I live. Another remarkable fact is that the Canadian federation was very cooperative and made a special design for the National Team, which looked really nice. Canada also won one World title in the men’s road race 45-49, plus the first place in the Team Relay, which wasn’t an official World Championship [event], but can become one in future years.” Future

“Perth has been awarded organizing the World Championships, the first under the name UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, in September 2016,” said Vervecken. “We expect it to be a very well-run event with, hopefully, also many Americans and Europeans taking the opportunity to combine the race with tourism. With the new event in New Zealand and Japan, the region has good potential for additional riders, all keen on becoming world champion. Also 2017 has been awarded to the French city of Albi, which has a long-standing tradition of organizing the finishes of the Tour de France, so we are confident that the race is continuing the good work we have done in recent years. For 2018, there is interest from four organizers to organize the World Championships: cities in Italy, Poland and the U.K. have asked for more information, but the big surprise is probably that Whistler Gran Fondo in Vancouver, [B.C.] is also interested in running the Worlds one of these years.” www.pedalmag.com

Issue #1, 2016

NOUVELLES

Enseignes choquette

Le Québec et le fatbike, un mariage réussi!

Le fatbike a la cote! Cette discipline cycliste hivernale qui était pratiquée par une poignée de marginaux téméraires rejoint maintenant une masse intéressante de coureurs. « Cette pratique répond aux conditions climatiques du Québec, de même qu’aux envies de nos membres qui souhaitent pouvoir pratiquer le vélo à toute période de l’année. Il est donc normal que nous soyons attentifs à ces évolutions et que nous proposions des événements qui répondent à la demande de nos pratiquants », a indiqué Fabien Blot, coordonnateur technique du secteur Hors-Route à la Fédération québécoise des sports cyclistes (FQSC). Depuis 2013, la FQSC sanctionne des événements en fatbike, dont la fameuse Course de la Marmotte disputée à Bromont. Le nombre d’épreuves figurant au calendrier de la FQSC n’a cessé de croître. En 2016, on en dénombre 15. En dépit de conditions climatiques peu favorables cet hiver, les organisateurs réussissent à livrer des événements de qualité et la participation continue d’augmenter. Dans le but de développer la pratique au Québec, la FQSC a produit deux guides à l’attention des amateurs de fatbike, soit l’un pour les participants et l’autre pour les organisateurs, et ce, en fonction de leurs besoins spécifiques. « Ce sont avant tout des recommandations pour une pratique sécuritaire et respectueuse de l’environnement. Bien que nous observions une augmentation au niveau de la demande, il faut garder en tête qu’il s’agit encore et surtout d’une pratique de loisir relativement nouvelle. C’est donc pourquoi nous ne voulons pas trop la réglementer. Mais en même temps, nous tenons à assurer la sécurité des participants », a-t-il fait valoir. www.fqsc.net

Autre nouveauté en 2016, les Championnats québécois de fatbike ont fait leur entrée au calendrier, et c’est au Centre national de cyclisme de Bromont (CNCB) que ce mandat a été confié. Le 31 janvier dernier, 91 coureurs ont pris le départ dans l’espoir de décrocher le premier titre national à l’enjeu dans leur catégorie respective. Au final, cet honneur est revenu à Raphaël Gagné et Laurence Harvey chez les élites. « À midi, le thermomètre indiquait 8°C. La course des élites s’est déroulée sur un parcours parfaitement damé, mais dont la surface s’est rapidement détériorée en raison de la chaleur, ajoutant ainsi au défi des participants », a raconté Nicolas Legault, directeur du CNCB. La veille des Championnats québécois, ils étaient nombreux à participer à une tranche de la série Mahikan Race, laquelle comprend quatre arrêts, dont un au Lac-Saint-Jean (Roberval) et deux en Italie (Bardonecchia et Alassio). « On pourrait dire que c’est une organisation de course de ski, mais pour des vélos de type fatbike, a-t-il expliqué. Et c’était particulièrement intéressant de voir la mixité de coureurs. Des pratiquants de BMX, aux spécialistes en vélo de montagne, crosscountry et descente, en plus de cyclistes au profil plutôt enduro. » TABLE DES MATIÈRES Le Québec et le fatbike, un mariage réussi ..............................1 Pleins feux sur la piste ...........................................................3 Cyclisme pour tous ...............................................................4 France Malo, artiste officielle de la FQSC ...............................6 #1 2016 FQSC NOUVELLES

Aérodynamique. Rapide. Élégant. Le vélo De Rosa SK Pininfarina est le résultat de la plus grande collaboration pour la marque depuis leur association avec Eddy Merckx et l’Équipe Molteni. Avec l’aide d’une grande compagnie de design: Pininfarina, De Rosa a lancé une merveille technologique renforcée par l’élégance et le style du vélo. Des journées interminables de recherche et développement en ingénierie composite et tests aérodynamiques ont permis d’aboutir à l’expression parfaite de stabilité, confort, performance et style. Conçu pour séduire les cyclistes chevronnés, les triathlètes dévoués ou les débutants en herbe; le nouveau SK Pininfarina est la solution pour ceux qui recherchent une expérience ultime de cyclisme italien.

@DeRosaCanada

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Hugo Barrette a confirmé son statut de spécialiste des épreuves de vitesse au pays en 2015. Avec seulement deux ans d’expérience sur la scène internationale, c’est lors des Jeux panaméricains disputés à Toronto que le public canadien découvre véritablement l’athlète originaire des Îles-dela-Madeleine. La révélation du vélodrome de Milton a ravi non pas une, ni deux, mais bien trois médailles au terme de ces Jeux. Le cycliste de 24 ans qui prend alors de la vitesse en vue d’une qualification olympique se heurte à une barrière d’acier lors d’une chute à l’entraînement. À la fin du mois d’octobre, il repose dans un lit d’hôpital en Colombie. Les pronostics ne sont pas encourageants. Sa saison, Suite à la page 5

Hugo Barrette

Nos fourre-tout résistants sont spécialement conçus pour ranger tout votre équipement de cyclisme dans un endroit pratique et sécuritaire.

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#1 2016 FQSC NOUVELLES

Ivan Rupes

Pleins feux sur la piste

Marie-Ève Drapeau

Cyclisme pour tous

FORMATION D'ENCADREUR EN ÉVÉNEMENT

FORMATION DE CAPITAINE DE ROUTE

Bon nombre d'organisateurs et de participants sont maintenant convaincus de la plus-value que représente la présence d'encadreurs dans les événements en Cyclisme pour tous. Si ces derniers jouent un rôle majeur au plan de l'encadrement et de la sécurité, ils peuvent également faire une différence significative dans l'expérience vécue par les cyclistes et l'atteinte de leurs objectifs. Le programme de certification d'encadreurs contribue donc à la réalisation d'événements sécuritaires, autant qu'à une expérience enrichie pour les participants. Le programme de certification d'encadreur en événement s'adresse aux cyclistes expérimentés qui, en renonçant à l'aspect performance de leur participation, souhaitent venir en aide aux autres participants, les conseiller, partager leur passion et collaborer à la réalisation d'événements sécuritaires. Selon le déroulement des événements, les tâches confiées aux encadreurs peuvent être amenées à varier, mais ils seront toujours appelés à jouer un rôle d'accompagnement auprès des participants. Les notions abordées seront de l'ordre de la sécurité (application des règles du Code de la sécurité routière), mais aussi des techniques et habiletés cyclistes, sans oublier l'attitude à adopter, l'alimentation, l'hydratation et la gestion de l'effort.

Le programme de certification des capitaines de route FQSC répond à l'explosion du nombre de cyclistes à l'entraînement sur les routes et à l'importance de développer un comportement éthique entre eux et aussi vis-à-vis les autres usagers de la route. La sécurité des cyclistes est évidemment une priorité pour la FQSC. Or, cette sécurité passe d'abord et avant tout par la composante éducative, les changements de mentalité et la notion de respect. Les capitaines de routes permettront aux clubs et aux organisateurs d'assurer des sorties et des événements encadrés, répondant au Code de la sécurité routière et permettant une saine pratique cycliste sur les routes du Québec, et ce, en faisant équipe avec l'ensemble de ses usagers. Le capitaine de route FQSC est un passionné de cyclisme pour qui la sécurité à vélo est une priorité. Il est convaincu du bienfondé des sorties d'entraînement encadrées sur route, respectant l'ensemble des usagers du réseau routier. Il souhaite rouler en toute sécurité, partager sa passion avec ses collègues de clubs et amis, et collaborer à la réalisation de sorties sécuritaires. Pour plus de détails, consultez la section Cyclisme pour tous du site Web de la FQSC, ou contactez Amélie Lepage.

FQSC NOUVELLES #1 2016

www.fqsc.net

Michel Guillemette Ivan Rupes

Suite de la page 3 voire sa carrière, pourrait être compromise. Mais si son corps est amoché, sa détermination, elle, demeure intacte. À peine un mois après une chute qui l'a laissé dans un piteux état, il revient à la compétition. Et en janvier, soit moins de trois mois après l’incident, il réussit à se hisser sur la deuxième marche du podium en Coupe du monde. Avec les points amassés grâce à sa performance au Rémi Pelletier-Roy keirin, il assure sa place pour les Jeux de Rio avant même la tenue de la dernière épreuve de qualification. Celui dont la guérison relève presque du miracle prendra donc part aux Jeux olympiques. Les yeux rivés vers Rio, rien ne pourra l’arrêter dans sa quête de succès. L’automne dernier, la malchance a frappé un autre pistard québécois. En effet, Rémi Pelletier-Roy a été victime d’une fracture de la clavicule une semaine avant la Coupe du monde présentée en Colombie. Le spécialiste de l’omnium a, lui aussi, repris du service en décembre, à l’occasion de la tranche de la Coupe du monde accueillie par la Nouvelle-Zélande. Au terme de la série mondiale qui s’est conclue à Hong-Kong, le laissez-passer pour les Jeux n’est toujours pas gagné. Alors au 16e échelon du classement mondial, sa participation olympique aurait été assurée si le processus de qualification prenait fin à ce moment. Mais l’émergence inattendue d’un autre compétiteur à l’aube des Mondiaux vient brouiller les cartes. Rien n’est encore joué. Ça peut aller dans un sens Kirsti Lay comme dans l’autre. À suivre. Maillon important du quatuor de l’unifolié, Kirsti Lay pourrait bien se tailler une place au sein du contingent canadien qui sera dépêché au Brésil, cet été. L’ancienne patineuse de vitesse et ses coéquipières en poursuite ont clamé l’or aux Jeux panaméricains et signé deux podiums en Coupe du monde. C’est donc dire qu’elle est sur une belle lancée à l’approche des Jeux olympiques. www.fqsc.net

ENTRAÎNEMENT ENTRAÎNEMENT NTR TRAÎNEMENT AÎNEM A ÎNEMENT ÎNEM E EN ÉQUIPE É ÉQUIPE

À DÉCOUVRIR AVENTURE A V VENTURE À VÉLO DANS ADIRONDACKS D ANS LES ADIROND ACKS E Entraînement ntraînement préalable aux randonnées de niveau avancé D iriger des randonnées et s’entraîner Diriger en randonnée Acquérir des compétences S ’améliorer en tant que cycliste S’améliorer ss 4OUT NIVEAU ET TOUT TERRAIN 4OUT NIVEAU ET TOUT TERRAIN ss #OLLINES s ,ONGUES BOUCLES #OLLINES s ,ONGUES BOUCLES ss 6ÏLO SUR ROUTE s 2OUTE DE GRAVIER 6ÏLO SUR ROUTE s 2OUTE DE GRAVIER

BIENVENUE Toute T oute saison – T Tout out terrain

s lub T! x c NAN u e a TE nu IN ve MA n z Bie rve se Ré

R Randonnée andonnée onnée d’une demi-journée, demi-jour mi-jourrnée, d’une jour journée née et de plusieurs i jours

DOWNTOWN D OWNTOWN LODGING Trois Tr rois logements d’une capacité ca apacité de 30 personnes, studio de yoga, Trois ois étages, machines achines à laver laver, r,, stationnement hors rue, rangement, etc.

6 6ENTES s %NTRETIEN s ,OCATIONS ENTES s %NTRETIEN s ,OCATIONS ,E ONS s &ORMATION s .AVETTES ,E ONS s &ORMATION s .AVETTES Le magasin multisport original de Lake Placid depuis 1983

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HighPeaksCyclery.com #1 2016 FQSC NOUVELLES

France Malo, artiste officielle de la FQSC

direct et devant une audience. « C’est le mariage de l’art et du sport, explique Malo. J’allie mes connaissances du corps humain au mouvement, à la couleur et à la matière. Je suis un peintre sculpteur, je sculpte avec la couleur. » Au fil du temps, l’artiste a développé une esthétique particulière, une facture qui lui est propre. En effet, durant une trentaine d’années de pratique, elle a exploré divers sujets, médiums et techniques, peaufinant ainsi son art et sa signature. Dans ce processus, une constante demeure : sa fascination pour l’être humain, qui est son sujet de prédilection. Elle aime le représenter dans le sport, la vie urbaine, la danse contemporaine ou encore le cirque. Parmi les sports qui la fascinent et qu’elle aime exploiter, il y a le cyclisme et toutes les disciplines sous-jacentes. Son intérêt pour le cyclisme l’a notamment menée à s’exécuter dans le cadre de l’édition 2014 de l’Échappée BELLE. C’est d’ailleurs à ce moment que les bases d’une association avec la FQSC ont été établies. Elle s’est ensuite produite à titre d’artiste invitée lors du Congrès de la FQSC. L’œuvre réalisée a fait l’objet

FQSC NOUVELLES #1 2016

d’un tirage, et les profits ainsi recueillis ont été versés en partie égale à l’artiste et à des projets de développement de l’équipe du Québec. Mais pour 2016 et les années subséquentes, la FQSC souhaite donner plus d’ampleur à ce partenariat, d’où une présence de l’artiste sur plusieurs événements cyclistes ciblés. De plus, une page destinée à l’exposition d’œuvres de France Malo sera prochainement créée sur le site Web de la FQSC. Un pourcentage des profits générés par la vente de toiles via le site Web et lors d’événements seront remis à la FQSC pour la réalisation de projets. En plus de contribuer au financement de projets cyclistes, les membres bénéficieront d’un rabais préférentiel. « Le nombre grandissant d’implications en tant qu’artiste aux événements caritatifs et sportifs me donne l’impression

Michel Guillemette

France Malo

La peintre, sculptrice et céramiste France Malo devient l’artiste officielle de la Fédération québécoise des sports cyclistes (FQSC). En vertu de cette association, l’artiste multidisciplinaire sera présente lors d’une dizaine d’événements figurant au calendrier cycliste et à l’occasion desquels elle réalisera des toiles sur place. À l’instar des athlètes qu’elle met en scène dans ses œuvres, elle aborde la création comme une performance qu’elle livre en

d’accomplir une mission sociale importante», fait valoir celle qui a reçu le titre de maître en beaux-arts par l’Académie internationale des beaux-arts du Québec.

www.fqsc.net

La passion italienne de carbone!

Kalibur

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 nEW PRODuCTs

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 17

out in front



BY SVEIN TUFT Continued from page 12

Tuft Enough

Denis Lévesque Retires from Tour de Beauce

Training, Part One

o, I’ve been doing this bike-racing thing for some time now. Each year, it’s been the same thing. Load on the miles and show up at training camp fit and ready for the season. This has been the template for years and one that I’m pondering a lot lately. I’ve spent years logging big miles in December and January and then coming to training camps with all sorts of residual fatigue. Then I start the season already tapped out, wondering why I’m tired at the start of my first race. I think this is very common in our sport and no one seems to question it. There’s no one looking at the entire picture of the athlete, but rather, just one single element – performance. It seems as you get older, you start to look at the holes in the game, and I think there are some big ones. Most athletes are chronically overtrained and appear quite lost in all of this. In my opinion, we’ve held onto a template designed in the old days where athletes recovered from superhuman efforts with the help of certain substances. These are not the training regimes that young developing athletes should be adhering to. There has to be another way. My new mission is to explore this. I’m in the perfect environment to practise these new techniques. The world of Professional cycling is a pretty crazy one. Even after all these years, I’m still shaking my head at some of the dogma I hear on a daily basis. We

accept. You have become disconnected from the earth and your environment and you keep stressing an already-spent organism. The change requires a hard step for most – to completely modify your lifestyle and habits. For me, it included moving to a quiet part of the mountains and spending most of my days out in nature. Backing off the workload and becoming a more versatile human being. This has allowed me to build back up and feel like I’ve made a reset. I’ve always been a huge fan of doing many different things in the off-season. I believe it makes you resilient throughout the rest of the year, as well as mentally happy, and never more so than in the latter years of my career. This is what my weekly training schedule looks like now:

courtesy: svein tuft

Monday - Run with a weight vest to the creek, get in the creek for cold thermogenesis adaptation, climb in the sun on the mountain, then ski tour Tuesday - Free weights in the sun, then bike ride Wednesday - Run with a weight vest to the creek and CT (cold thermogenesis) Thursday - Rest, active recovery, then yoga Friday - Run with a weight vest to the creek and CT, long bike ride, then sauna Saturday - Run with a weight vest to the creek and CT run, then long hike or ski Sunday - Rest or a fun activity

are still running primarily on Backing off the workload simple carbohydrates and makes you resilient and obsessed with volume. mentally happy the rest My experience has been of the year. that this works in a genetically resilient young person, but as the years go by, on this program the body starts giving out signals of troubles and complications. Eventually, athletes either become sick or begin to believe their career is coming to an end. Many go down the rabbit hole of trying to diagnose themselves, never finding the answer. The answer is very simple and a hard one to 18 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

That’s just an example, but it’s a far cry from the 30+ hour weeks I used to do. I’m not saying there’s no place for volume; I just believe you really need to pick and choose those blocks wisely. In doing so, the difference I feel is incredible. I feel human again. The body is ready for another grueling season. The training is far more dynamic and enjoyable, but it also transfers well to large workloads on the bike. I’ve just returned from a training camp with two weeks of big volume. The camp was difficult, but with a winter of these training practices, my body was adapting every day, and I came out of the camp feeling very fresh as compared to other years. My life has changed direction big time. All of these new ideas and practices have taken some time to yield benefits, but I promise you, these simple practices will change you completely. If it’s optimal performance you’re after, then you will need to be patient while your body slowly transforms. Give it time and the effects are incredible. In Part Two, I will discuss more of these training practices, how to go about them and their effects.

Denis Lévesque is leaving the organization of the Tour de Beauce (TdB) was the announcement in late January on Facebook: “After over 24 years of volunteer work [as president] of the TdB, it came time to retire. How lucky I was to rub shoulders with incredible athletes in a little-known and really underestimated sport as much in Beauce, as in Quebec or in Canada. “What of St-Georges-de-Beauce, home ground of 30 editions of the TdB, more than eight National Championships and more than 15 Quebec Championships. And, for me, the opportunity to meet incredible people.” Among those to whom Lévesque gave thanks were Yvan Waddell, Louis Bertrand, Réal Labbé, Bastien Tremblay, Guy Laperrière, Martin Sirois, Josée Robitaille, Louis Barbeau, Magella Tremblay, Dom Perras, Gord Fraser, as well as Lévesque’s own family. The TdB was founded by Jean Lessard in 1986; Lévesque first became involved in 1993 as TdB’s program director. As a spectator, he had watched four previous editions of the TdB and fell under its spell. According to his Facebook page, Lévesque is CEO of a Toyota dealership.

Dominique Rollin Hangs up Bike Dominique Rollin announced his retirement from Professional cycling in late January after a 15-year career that took him to the heights of the Pro peloton. “Dear all: In this early 2016, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and help throughout the years. After a short return to competition, I came to the decision to leave the world of competitive cycling. I am more than grateful for the opportunity and the trust received from Cofidis, whom allowed me a year back on the bike.” Rollin previously announced his retirement in 2014, but signed with Cofidis in 2015; Nacer Bouhanni, Cofidis’ team captain, played a key role in bringing Rollin on board. Rollin, a talented sprinter, was the 2006 Canadian road champion, won bronze in the Individual time trial at the 2007 Pan Am Games and participated in four Grand Tours (two Giros and two Vueltas, completing one of each). He also scored stage wins at the Tour de Beauce (2005), Tour de Gironde (2006) and the Tour of California (2008). He rode for WorldTour teams Française des Jeux and Cofidis. Continued on page 20 www.pedalmag.com

out in front



BY Catharine Pendrel

Continued from page 18

MTB Frontlines

Anderson Fifth at GP la Marseillaise Canada’s Ryan Anderson delivered a strong fifth-place finish, debuting for his new Pro team Direct Energie (for-

photos courtesy: Catharine pendrel

ovelty is what keeps training interesting. I love winter because I get to ski. If I lived in a climate where I could ride a bike all year long, I would – it would be hard not to. As a racer, there would be many advantages to this, but I also think a forced break from riding is a great opportunity for both diversity and high-quality focused work. For me, this translates to a steady winter regimen of skiing and trainer sessions.

Although skiing is perfect for fitness gains, winter training for cyclists also involves dedicated trainer time to prepare your butt, knees and legs to get the most out of spring riding. How can you make the trainer better? Well, for one thing, don’t hop on a trainer just to knock off hours. Skiing or another winter activity is best for volume. But when it comes to busy workweeks and cycling-specific training, the trainer is an amazing tool. Not only is it safer and better-quality cycling than risking snowy and icy roads, riding the trainer is phenomenal mental training if done right. Riding a trainer takes discipline and resiliency to get through something that is tough or that you don’t feel super-excited to do, and for it to be at all enjoyable, you have to actively engage in it. You have to be able to turn the focus up when needed and back off it when needed. You have to be able to change your focus from one that is internal – “This sucks, I hurt” – to external – “Okay, halfway there, one minute to go” – leg speed. Learning how to ask and find that quality focus and effort from your body and mind are incredible skills to possess, and training this over the winter will help you find more when you take the bike outdoors. Last year, my husband and I headed south for the winter to ride our bikes. It was fantastic. I trained well and got in more bike time than I would normally. But when it came to race season, I didn’t have the same fire and engagement. That 20 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

joy in the first outdoor ride, of going fast, of the rapid progression of skill and fitness transferring to the bike just wasn’t the same without my usual winter ski/trainer routine. I knew that for my Olympic preparation I would want to be back with my skis and frenemy trainer, settling into a challenging yet rewarding winter-training routine that would have me fit, focused, fired up and ready to go for the race season. Like most “work,” the hardest part of riding the trainer is getting started. Once you start pedaling, you realize it isn’t as bad as you thought it would be, as long as you keep a few guidelines in mind. Here is what I find helps: Have a Plan: Know how long you want to ride and write up a workout to fill the time. It is amazing how quickly time flies when you write out the warm-up, some technique (i.e., pedaling drills, cadence), schedule in some sprints and rest, Skiing is perfect winter training, but riding a trainer is needed to prepare your butt, knees and legs.

some sustained load and rest and a cool-down. Radio: People often ask me about my playlist and I feel lame saying . . . um, CBC radio. But I find talk radio the best for trainer sessions. You can engage when you want and disengage when you need to focus on pedaling. I find that TV (visual stimuli is too distracting for any focused riding) and music don’t necessarily give me the feeling of forward progression that I get when a radio program moves from story to story. Keep Cool: Pre-cool your trainer room with open windows. You want fresh air as well as a fan for evaporative cooling. Get too hot and your heart rate will rise quickly and stay up, adding physical stress and dehydration. Even if you are trying to prepare for an event that has an elevated temperature, you still need some fresh air. Hydrate: Do this before, during and after to feel good both during your workout and to recover faster afterward. You’ll lose a lot of sweat, so add a bit of electrolyte. Happy training!

Ryan Anderson

direct energy

Frenemies: Have You Told Your Trainer You Appreciate It Lately?

merly Europcar) at the 152km GP la Marseillaise in France on Jan. 31. The Albertan rider was 42 seconds off the podium, while fellow Canuck Hugo Houle (AG2R) finished 13th with the same time. Anderson’s Canadian teammate, Antoine Duchesne, was 63rd. Belgium’s Dries Devenyns (IAM Cycling) edged out Frenchman Thibaut Pinot (FDJ) in a dramatic sprint for the win. Although not a WorldTour team, Direct Energie in its previous incarnations has often competed at such top races as the Tour de France. Anderson, 28, distinguished himself in 2015 by finishing second at the Canadian road-race Championships along with winning a stage and the Points jersey at Portugal’s Troféu Alpendre Internacional do Guadiana. He finished second overall at the White Spot/Delta road race and was the top Canadian at the Tour of Alberta in 2013 and 2014. He also won the 2016 North Star GP. The team’s new title sponsor, Direct Energie, provides electricity and natural gas in France. Canadian-based sportswear manufacturer Louis Garneau Sports, formerly with Europcar, is no longer a team sponsor.

Canada’s Boivin Wins First Race of 2016 in Israel Canada’s reigning road champion, Guillaume Boivin (Cycling Academy), won his first race of 2016 on Feb. 13. Boivin took the 125km Beit Guvrin race near Jerusalem, Israel in 3:10:19, with a 2:55 lead over second-place Aviv Yechezkel. “Our Guillaume Boivin just won the Beit Guvrin race in Israel with a remarkable 30km (!!!) solo finish,” posted his team on Facebook. “Our Canadian champ was in the front of the 125km race from the first few km, Continued on page 22 www.pedalmag.com

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out in front



Sullivan Report Qualifying Process for the Rio 2016 Olympics

ach sport has a unique qualification process for the Olympic Games; even each cycling discipline has its own process. For the women’s Team Sprint, the rules can be simplified as: • Total points ranking from World Cups, World Championships and Continental Championships for two years leading up to the Games • Maximum total entries for Team Sprint at the Olympics: nine countries • Maximum entries per continent: ﬁve for Europe, two for the Americas, two for Asia, two for Oceania and one for Africa In a nutshell, there are nine countries that can qualify for Team events on the track, and if one qualifies for a Team Sprint spot, you automatically qualify two spots for sprint and Keirin. Canada Works to qualify

gUy swArBricK

With some talent identification (to get Kate O’Brien, a former bobsledder) and some getting-retiredathletes-to-come-back-to-racing (me), Canada has been attempting to qualify for the women’s Team Sprint for Olympics for the first time. We were a little bit late in getting things together, which only gave us a few months to prepare for the first rounds of World Cups. Our first year could be summed up as “we have potential.” Potential, in this case, meaning “not quite.” We did our very best and showed promise, but did not have the results required to fight for Olympic spots. Once we got past the World Championships in March 2015, we finally had some proper time to train. Kate got a proper bike position, we both finished our schooling, we began regular training at the new velodrome in Milton, Ont. with Erin Hartwell, and we got to work. By the Pan Am Games in July, we were the strongest Americas team and we won by a comfortable margin. This

22 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

was extremely exciting for us because the Pan Am Championships were only a month away and held a critical opportunity to obtain Olympic qualification points. (The point spread at Pan Am Games is much greater than at World Cups, and we are in more “direct” competition with our own continent because of Continental quotas.) One month later, we placed third at the Pan Am Championships. This was devastating, not only because we ended up critically behind in points, but also because we didn’t know if we would be able to get better than Mexico and Colombia, which were now comfortably ahead of us. It was quite a shock to us after having made so much progress to feel as if our chance at Rio was over before we even got a real chance to try. We decided that we would try anyway. It would take a good race at every single World Cup and the World Championships and we had to beat both the Mexican and Colombian teams by at least three places at each race for it to happen – something we had never done before. On paper, the math was possible, but it was daunting and there was no room for any slip-ups. With just two of us and no alternates, we had to push ourselves to the edge and hope we didn’t fall off. Just two weeks ago at the final World Cup of the season in Hong Kong, we were extraordinarily thrilled to overtake both Mexico and Colombia in the Olympic rankings and to be sitting in “defense” for an Olympic spot. The work is not done yet. The final chance to collect Olympic qualification points will be at the World Championships in March, and we need another solid ride. The Olympics is a funny beast. With so many countries fighting for such a small number of spots, everyone is pushing their limits and things change very quickly. Countries that seemed guaranteed to qualify a Team sprint partners few months ago may not, Kate o’Brien (l) and and new talent will begin to monique Sullivan sweep the stage. Kate and on the road to Rio I were so focused on our training and on our Continental qualification that we didn’t even notice we finished the World Cup season third overall. As we head into the final build-up for the World Championships and, ultimately, hopefully, the Olympics, we are constantly reminded of this fact – something we will use to our advantage. Because when you put your head down and focus on doing the work, you might just surprise yourself, one small step at a time.

Continued from page 20 blowing the field away with an attack on a climb at 30km to the finish . . . The first rider chasing him was 3 min behind. The peloton? Ages. The victory assured, but our Canadian we all call ‘G’ never thought to let go, ease the pain a bit, as he sailed home to the finish line. For him, this would be disrespectful, against all he believes as athlete: Give it all. And rewarded he was: Not only won, but smashed the time record in the course on the Israeli Beit Guvrin race. Many who witnessed the race were convinced they have just witnessed the best racing performance ever seen in Israel, but Guillaume Boivin looked at it differently:” “I am just happy that I could show Israeli riders what is needed to be Pro cyclists and help cycling in Israel,” said Boivin. “Racing for a Israeli Cycling Academy, you learn this is a big part of our mission . . . . Man, I am so happy that we delivered.” Boivin, 26, was pondering retirement in 2016 before signing with Israeli-based Cycling Academy. Guillaume Boivin takes his first win of 2016.

isrAeLi cycLiNg AcAdeMy

BY monIQUE SUllIVan

speedTRak WoRld launCh aT MilTon velodRoMe The recent SpeedTrak world launch could herald the start of a whole new ballgame for track cycling, according to former U.S. track cyclist John Vande Velde. The sport is “horribly undermined by not lending itself to TV viewing,” shared Vande Velde in an exclusive interview with Pedal. But he’s betting all of this will likely change with his new patented game, SpeedTrak, which had its “Proof of Concept” world premiere on Feb. 23 at the Mattamy National Cycling Centre’s velodrome in Milton, Ont. Vande Velde rode for the U.S. National team at the 1968 and 1972 Olympics; he is also the father of Christian Vande Velde, a retired road cyclist and veteran of 20+ Grand Tours, ending his racing career with Slipstream-Chipotle in 2013. The younger Vande Continued on page 24 www.pedalmag.com

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out in front

Swart’s Swagger It’s just for fun. Really?

The Mass Start has riders 10 abreast and 20 rows deep. 24 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

courtesy: john swart

here’s nothing quite like straddling your bike, one shoe clipped in at the top of the pedal stroke, surrounded by 199 other racers, anticipating the starting gun. The intensity is sublime, and it will come unbidden. Therein lies the problem, as they say in countless movie clichés. The call was innocent enough. “Hey, John. A couple of work friends and I are thinking of doing the Battenkill this year. They don’t ride much. You want to come ride as a team?” Cary asked. “Just for fun.” In case you haven’t been around riders long enough to understand what was just said, I’ll translate. “Doing” means racing; as in the winner gets to gloat, has bragging rights at work and club rides and definitely doesn’t have to buy the beer. “They don’t ride much” means they’ve been too busy training on stationary bikes and rollers all winter and spent so much time in the gym that they’ve only ridden their new fatbikes in the snow two or three times a week. “As a team” means I’m the only one with a vehicle that will carry four bikes, four guys and their gear, so without me, they can’t get there. “Just for fun?” Really? Sixty-eight miles of vertical Appalachian-Mountain backroads, energy-sapping rutted dirt and gravel, all on 23c road tires, will be fun? “I’m in,” was my reply, of course. It’s an 8:00 a.m. race start on Sunday, so on Saturday we load up and head down the New York State Thruway to Greenwich, N.Y. – a village so small that our GPS will have to ask directions. Cary’s on a borrowed bike, Joe’s had a flat for a week and needs to buy a tube on the way, Darren’s half-finished his Starbucks coffee traveler filled with espresso macchiato, and nobody

knows exactly where the race starts. Maybe this is for fun after all. We each sign up, get our number plates and our new electro-magnetic timing bracelets. The magnetism soothes my arthritis immediately, and since I’m old enough to be the father of this motley group, I’ll take any advantage I can get. The Mass Start has riders lining up 10 abreast across the road, 20 rows deep. Stern-faced serious racers jockey for the front, the smiling, less serious congregate at the rear. Our team approaches the back of the corral, and the competitive atmosphere slowly envelops us. “Is the plan still to ride together?” I ask. Four musketeers are okay with me, but I’m already glancing around, deciding whom I might beat. There are not a whole lot of them. Cary, previously a provincially-ranked road racer, feels it too. “Maybe Darren and I should ride together,” he says guiltily, edging his bike toward the front of the line-up. Now he tells me that Darren, 30 years my junior, has really been training since Christmas, but that he’s a bit nervous because it’s his first race. Darren’s eaten all of his energy gels already (68 miles worth!), and had a pair of Red Bulls for breakfast to calm himself. Three minutes before the gun, Cary turns to me and says sheepishly, “Maybe we should all go at our own pace.” Why did I ever think this would end differently? The gun blasts, and we’re on our way. The initial few kilometres are on pavement, so we can sort ourselves out before hitting the first dirt section. Darren is so buzzed he flies through the group, I’m surrounded mid-pack, terrified someone’s going to clip my wheel or bars, and Cary’s in between. Cary looks ahead at Darren, then back at me. Ashen-white, eyes wide, I graciously wave him on, knowing he would have taken off anyhow. The finish is a miserable uphill grind, following a bunch of other miserable uphill grinds, but the upstate New York spring scenery will take your breath away – if you’ve got any left to be taken. Cary beat me by a ton, Darren got me by three seconds even without his gels, and Joe was a couple of minutes behind riding with a team of librarians from Vermont who were doing the ride for fun. Really. It’s an amazing race, considered one of the American Classics. Just send in your entry, and your competitive currents will begin to flow. Therein lies the problem.

Continued from page 22 Velde is now a sportscaster for NBC. “I used to ride six-day events in Montreal, Toronto, Detroit, New York City, etc. I knew that track cycling would not work in North America; the discipline was not properly formed. So I developed this game and have tested my system all over the U.S.A.,” Vande Velde explained. SpeedTrak basically is track racing that’s been redesigned to be audience-friendly. Vande Velde notes that, unlike many other spectator sports, track racing has no home team to cheer for. But his game features home teams, easier rules to understand, better visuals and faster action. Moreover, Vande Velde claims that the audiences have been going wild. “Watching a 4,000-metre Pursuit can be like watching paint dry. With a good Keirin, people can get into it, but then there is a time trial – it’s like the air would go out of stadium! That’s what we have been doing with this new game.

cyclesport management

BY John Swart

Audience-friendly SpeedTrack racing “Our teams will be Toronto, Montreal, Chicago and Detroit. There will be 10 races with mixed teams. The first five players across the line score points for their team. At the end of the 10 races, points go up on the scoreboard and the team with most points wins. It’s very very simple; we’re making this for TV. “There is going to be scoring every two minutes, with points going up on the board. We will include technology such as wattage, speed, heart rate – all this will go up on a big screen in the velodrome. It will be very visual, engaging and technologically spectacular. We’ll do a lot of things with technology the sport has never done before! “I’ve never been closer to finding a home until I came to Milton. Greg Mathieu [Cycling Canada’s CEO] knows that we have to change track cycling or it won’t become mainstream. Cycling Canada got it, and Steve Bauer and Josée Laroque [Cyclesport Management] have been out there, knocking on doors for me. “This is the start of it all,” said Vande Velde. For more information, visit www.speedtrak.com.

www.pedalmag.com

 BY laURa RoBInSon

Review Open Heart, Open Mind

lara Hughes described her career as an Olympic and world champion medalist in cycling and speed-skating in her book Open Heart: Open Mind when she launched it in the fall of 2015, opening the door on her struggles with depression, eating disorders, a dysfunctional family and – a positive dope test. Hughes, the only athlete to win multiple medals in both Summer and Winter Games, had already told Canadians about how depression could overwhelm her and tried to remove the stigma attached to mental illness. In her book, she linked it to criticism by her coach, Mirek Mazur, who, she said, told her constantly that she was overweight and needed to curtail her food intake, leading to an eating disorder. But it was her revelation about a false-positive dope test in her book and announced in a CBC television interview with The National‘s Adrienne Arsenault that took Canadians by surprise. Hughes wrote she was contacted by Canadian National Team director Pierre Hutsebaut to say she had tested positive at the Road World Championships in Sicily in 1994, where she had placed fourth in the Individual time trial. Hughes, 22 at the time, was “shattered”, writing that she didn’t even know what the stimulant ephedrine was, but checked the labels of whatever she may have ingested. They came up blank. She wondered if it could have been a spiked water bottle or a mix-up at the lab. Doping guidelines then were sparse, and while Hutsebaut says he only informed Hughes of her test results and sanction, she claims she was told to keep quiet while serving a threemonth suspension during the off-season. “To this day, I don’t know how that happened. I know I didn’t cheat and can look myself in the eye. I have never talked about it. It actually makes me sick because I know I didn’t do anything, and it is so empty to say that 21 years later,” said Hughes. The problem with focusing on the doping infraction is you miss the real Clara Hughes: the self-harm, the “self-absorbed” life athletes end up leading, and her brave struggle with mental health. In her book, she revisited the streets of North Winnipeg, where she drank herself into oblivion and tried every drug available. Hughes shared those experiences with many First Nations friends. As Hughes became an author, she also became an honorary witness with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Indian Residential Schools. She listened to the heartbreaking stories of residential-school survivors. In November 2015, she helped launch the Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at the University of Manitoba. “I became an honorary witness to retell the stories that I’ve heard, to share with Canadians who don’t know what our true history is,” Hughes said as she launched a national essay-writing contest on residential schools, entitled “Imagine a Canada.” Hughes still has much to teach Canadians. May we all listen well. www.pedalmag.com

out in front

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BY LISA EVANS

Clubs

Bruce Zinger

Morning Glory Cycling Club

26 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

Morning Glory Cycling club

hile most of the populace of Toronto, Ont. are catching the last bit of sleep at 5:30 in the morning, members of the Morning Glory Cycling Club (MGCC) are out on their bikes riding down primarily empty roads. The club began in 2008 when now-president, Fraser Chapman, welcomed his first child into the world. Before becoming a father, Chapman took to the city streets at 5:30 p.m. for a ride. “I quickly realized 5:30 p.m. no longer functioned in my world with this new responsibility,” he says. But there was a silver lining. “5:30 a.m. was quite available and I was typically quite awake.” Chapman soon discovered he wasn’t alone on the road at 5:30 in the morning. “It turned out there were a lot of people out riding at that time,” he says. For three weeks, he chased down every rider he saw on the road and asked if they wanted to ride together. By the end of the three weeks, he had approximately 30 people riding alongside him. Thus, the Morning Glory Cycling Club was born. The club now has 920 registered members and three chapters: the original Leaside chapter, High Park and Oakville. Rides are organized every day of the week and meet at 5:40 in the morning on weekdays and 6:00 a.m. on the weekend. These early-morning rides are not only convenient for office workers who need to be at their desks by 9:00 a.m., but are simply safer. “Riding in the city at 5:30 in the morning, we have the roads to ourselves. Riding at 5:30 at night is more difficult,” says Chapman. The Morning Glory Cycling Club prides itself on being inclusive. Rides range from an average of 20 km/h to 40 km/h. “As long as someone is able to ride a bicycle clipped in, fitness is not a factor for someone to not join the club,” says Chapman. All riders stay together for the first third of the ride. When they get to their destination, the route may take them on a 5km loop or hill repeats. During this part of the ride, riders break up and go at their individual pace. While some riders may be able to do eight hill repeats, others may only be able to do three, but Chapman says that doesn’t matter. “You’re always around people; you’re never on your own,” he says. For the last third of the ride, cyclists regroup and ride back together. The routes were designed in this way to break down the typical mentality of group cycling, where the strongest riders would take off and the weakest would be left behind. While everyone is cycling for physical fitness, Chapman says the social aspect of cycling is why people join the club. “I see all my good friends before 6:00 a.m.,” he says. The club organizes monthly pub

nights, a 180km Father’s Day bike ride followed by a family barbeque and an end-of-the-year party. (above) The early-morning rides give you The Morning Glory Cycling Club time to still be at your desk by 9:00 a.m. also likes to give back to the community. Each year, the club collects used bicycles and hands them over to its partner, Gears Bike Shop, which refurbishes them. The club then gives the bikes to youth in Thorncliffe Park, a high-density low-income area in Toronto. “You don’t find too many homes in Toronto that don’t have a used, neglected bicycle in the basement, and we wanted to get those bikes out of the basements and into the hands of kids who can use them,” says Chapman. In 2015, they gave away 175 bikes, and this year, the club will host an additional bike giveaway in Parkdale, another high-density low-income area. The Morning Glory Cycling Club has also flexed its political muscle. “We were responsible for the City of Toronto doing away with the bylaw that mandated cyclists had to ride in single file on city streets,” boasts Chapman. Continuing its efforts to promote a safe-cycling environment, The Morning Glory Cycling Club comes out in the evening hours every Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. to teach cycling skills and safety to Toronto youth. The Leaside chapter has been running the youth-cycling program for the past three years, and in 2016, the High Park chapter will begin the program. “We’re looking at a succession plan for the club as these kids grow and ride bikes in MGCC colours,” says Chapman. To learn more about the Morning Glory Cycling Club, visit www.mgrideht. (top) The club has 920 registered members and three chapters.

www.pedalmag.com

Electric assist can now be found on everything from skinny-tired road-race bikes to balloon-tired fatbikes. 28 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

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TOP

uRBAn

CYCLInG IssuEs In CAnADA by Chris Keam

rowing popularity can also mean growing pains. It’s no different for the Canadian cities trying to make room for cyclists to ride and park, or the offroad trails where electric MTBs are pushing the envelope for off-road access. In Vancouver, the long-awaited announcement of a bike-share program is bringing a whole new dimension to that city’s cycling ambitions. Toronto is hoping it can win the bike-parking battle with expansion plans for more parking facilities near transit hubs. Bike theft remains a huge problem in Canadian cities. Can new efforts by police to promote yet another voluntary registration scheme get traction? And will we see electric MTBs on a singletrack trail soon? What about an end to tariffs that hurt the industry? We took a brief look at some of the top issues affecting cycling in Canada:

cUBe

ungap the Map/Minimum Grid

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Creating cycling routes is great. Making sure they connect is better. In Vancouver, B.C. and Toronto, Ont., advocates are calling for targeted cycling-infrastructure investments that create traffic-calmed cycling networks spread across their respective regions. The goal is cycling as a realistic option – for more people and a wider range of daily trips. Similar initiatives are taking root across the country, as cities look to cycling lanes and bike paths as low-cost green-transportation initiatives. The Toronto campaign calling for a “Minimum Grid” has set its sights on 100 kilometres of protected bike lanes on main streets across Toronto, and 100 kilometres of bicycle boulevards on residential streets across Toronto by 2018. Mark Garner, executive director of the Downtown Yonge Business Improvement Area, offers this testimonial on the Minimum Grid website: “A Minimum Grid makes our streets safer and more accessible for everyone. It benefits businesses by bringing more people onto the street and providing them with safe connections between all of Toronto’s unique neighbourhoods.” A significant achievement for Minimum Grid is the support it is receiving from Toronto city councillors. More than half (25 out of 44) pledged to support a Minimum Grid across Toronto by the end of their term in 2018. ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 29

Only improved availability of more secure bike parking can ensure your bike is there when you return for it.

potential for IMBA to partner with electric-mountain-bike (eMTB) [sic] manufacturers, suppliers and retailers to help guide this emerging category. An essential principle for this work is that no loss of existing mountain-bike access will be acceptable. We believe that it is critical to proactively develop strategies to address eMTB use as a component of IMBA’s ongoing work on public lands in order to avoid potential setbacks for mountain bikes and trail closures.” While the industry loves the idea of selling you an expensive e-MTB, regulations remain a gray area in Canada. Its use on bicycle paths and dedicated mountain-bike trails may vary from place to place. Many, if not most singletrack trails remain technically off-limits to power-assisted bicycles in Canada. But the fatbike/e-bike combo is proving a popular set-up in our country, especially in the North. Travel Yukon’s promo “Winter Fat Biking in the Yukon” is a clear example of this trend. It’s difficult not to also see how the Enduro-race format – untimed ascents and timed downhill-racing sections – is a perfect fit for e-MTBs. Plus, making the climb to the top easier opens up the sport to an even larger demographic, if e-assist catches on. More potential customers of bicycles at a higher price point is a prospect that manufacturers are sure to welcome.

In Vancouver Ungap the Map is about calling attention to cycling-route issues.

In Vancouver, a similar effort going by the name of Ungap the Map hopes to direct attention to trouble spots that need investments in cycling routes. This initiative doesn’t have a distance total for its targeted improvements, but has identified opportunities across the Metro Vancouver region. “Ungap the Map is about calling attention to the issues,” said Colin Stein, HUB cycling coalition’s communications manager in an interview with CBC Radio on Oct. 29, 2015. “We’re trying to point out what the top priorities should be as the voice of people on bikes on the road and of what they need.”

E-MTBs – Way of the Future?

Every bike brand in the industry is facing the issue of going electric. The off-road and road-race categories resisted this trend longer than the commuting and comfort segments, but electric assist can now be found on everything from skinny-tired road-race bikes to balloon-tired fatbikes. There aren’t any real obstacles to electric-assist road bikes, in terms of legal issues. They are just like any other e-bike on the road. Where you can ride an electric mountain bike, however, is a bit trickier. Rules vary across Canada, depending on local regulations. An e-MTB may be legal on city bike paths, but on typical mountain-bike trails designated as “no-motors-allowed” zones to prevent use by gas-powered motorbikes, it can run afoul of the rules. If manufacturers get to pick the trend, then acceptance of e-MTBs is on the horizon. Legal clarity is coming piece by piece. A trendsetting decision in California places e-bikes firmly in the bicycle category (rather than moped or scooter) and legalizes their use on bike paths. Natural-surface trails and open space are not covered by the new rules. The electric mountain bike’s hill-flattening power and ease-of–use advantage over a human-powered-only version makes it an easy sell to a wider range of customers, especially those outside of the “cyclist” stereotype. The only real roadblock is one of image for traditional cycling companies. Experienced bike reviewers are raving about the added fun factor of singletrack ascents with pedal-assist technology, as e-MTBs with top-end spec add a whole new dimension to the off-road experience. But when cynical riders are calling your product “the moped of the forest,” it’s not a ringing endorsement. The topic of e-MTBs encroaching on the trails typically monopolized by highly skilled off-road riders is definitely on the minds of trail-use organizations. The Canadian chapter of IMBA (International Mountain Bike Association) has a policy statement on its website with the following conclusion: “There is

30 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

city of vancouver

Biking Registration Rears Its Head Again

The call to license cyclists comes up again and again. In late October 2015, Vancouver Non-Partisan Association councillor Melissa De Genova tried to bring a motion before that city’s council – to investigate registering bicycles and/or cyclists in the city. Her motion never made it a single step beyond the bike-friendly Vision Vancouver majority on council. Which is probably a good thing. Despite some politicians’ enthusiasm for mandating a bicycle license, the idea remains unexplored territory in Canada. In fact, while De Genova was calling for registration on the basis of being able to identify scofflaw cyclists and return stolen bikes in Vancouver, the municipal government in Regina, Sask. was finally losing the last vestiges of its city-run bicycle-registration program in the spring of 2015. It had a 3% return rate on an average annual bicycle-recovery total of 150 bikes – largely because no one used the program and no fines had been issued in approximately five years. Bicycle licensing is not actually an unheard-of idea in North America. From the turn of the 20th century, many jurisdictions had mandatory bicycle-registration laws on the books, though they were rarely enforced. Calgary, Alta. even once had a law, dating from before 1916. It was repealed in the 1970’s. Regina is just the latest to abandon the idea, repealing its long-time bicycle-licensing requirement after years of residents ignoring the rule and the municipality not bothering to enforce it. One of the biggest reasons for dropping existing registration rules and rejecting new schemes is cost. The price of administering the program invariably outstrips its revenues. The main argument for bicycle licensing or registration is that it helps with the recovery and return of stolen bicycles to their rightful owners. However, it’s clear that Canadian bicycle owners are not taking advantage of the free services currently at their disposal. Across the country, nearly every police force has a bicycle-registration program it could recommend to a bicycle owner. But there isn’t a clear nationwide registry brand established. In Vancouver, the police department changed its recommendations for bicycle registrations three times in less than 10 years, ranging from the now-defunct volunteer-run Propertycop program launched in 2007, to its current Log or Lose it program and, most lately, the Project 529 bicycle-theft registry. Bike licensing, despite potentially assisting in the recovery of your bike, doesn’t address the root cause of the problem. Prevention of bike theft obviously remains the No. 1 priority for any Canadian rider. To that end, only improved availability of more secure bike parking can ensure your bike is there when you return for it, no matter where you go.

Bike Parking in Canada

When it comes to parking near their destination, many cyclists settle for a rack, ring or, failing all else, a parking meter because sometimes bringing the bike inside isn’t an option. Automated bicycle-parking facilities as seen in European and Japanese cities don’t exist in Canada. Even our biggest www.pedalmag.com

Bicycle Tariffs Gone Yet High Duties Remain

cities are just beginning to offer secured self-serve bicycle parking. But planners are responding to demand. Secure bike-parking options encourage cycling in cities for both regular-commuter and occasional-user demographics, so cities are looking for ways to improve the situation. Expanded bike-parking options are slowly coming online across the country, with standalone lockers the most common solution. Toronto currently has two dedicated bicycle-parking facilities on its subway routes, one at Union Station and the other at Victoria Park Station. Both require a membership to use. Toronto’s bicycle stations have secure parking with 24-hour video surveillance. A lifetime membership is $26.91, but you have to buy a separate membership for each station, meaning they are primarily suited

for people commuting to the same location regularly. A day pass is $2.15, a one-month pass costs $21.53 and a year pass is $129.14. The Union Station facility at 25 York Street features 120 bike racks, a change room and a vending machine offering spare inner tubes, bike lights and snacks. Some tools and a pump are available for minor repairs. A revitalization project currently underway at Union Station will increase the number of parking spots, showers and lockers. It’s scheduled for completion in 2016. The Victoria Park bicycle station has 52 secure bicycle-parking spaces available on two-tier racks. Three more bicycle-parking stations are being planned for Toronto – at Nathan Philips Square (underground parking), Finch West Station (at Finch and Keele streets) and the Eglinton Crosstown LRT. In Vancouver, there is one public bike-parking facility downtown at the Main Street Skytrain station and another at the King George Skytrain station in Surrey, B.C. Both are run by Translink, the regional transit authority. Users must register online with the parking authority and bring their own lock, but pricing is a very reasonable $1 per day, to a maximum of $8 a month. Translink also offers bike lockers at most of its Skytrain stations for $10 per month and free outdoor racks at all SkyTrain stations and most bus exchanges. In the spring of 2015, Vancouver city council approved a plan to study the feasibility of adding 1,000 secure bicycle-parking spaces to the downtown core. However with the recent announcement that a bike-share system supplier had been chosen and service is to be launched as soon as possible, it’s likely that the bike-parking studies may be sidelined for the near future. Unlike Vancouver and Toronto, Calgary doesn’t have a bike-parking facility, but there are bike lockers at 13 C Transit stations that you can rent for up to a year for $132 (with a minimum of six months for $72). Eight hundred new bike-parking spaces were to be created in 2015, adding to the 1,900 installed in the previous decade. The city is concentrating the new parking facilities along the Centre City Cycle Track network. But these are on-street posts and rings, not secured facilities. Calgary also offers seven Park and Bike stations for commuters willing to drive part of the way and ride the final five to eight kilometres into the downtown core. And what about the Far North? To its credit, even Whitehorse, Yukon offers protected downtown bike parking. These BYOL (Bring Your Own Lock) 1x3-metre colourful boxes at four downtown locations allow cyclists in Whitehorse to store their bikes on a first-come, first-served day-use basis. www.pedalmag.com

Daviat Niezova/toronto.ca

felt

Regulations about where you can ride your e-MTB remain a gray area in parts of Canada.

The good news is that the longstanding anti-dumping tariffs imposed by the federal government to protect domestic bicycle production were rescinded by the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) in 2013. This followed after the closing of a Raleigh plant in Quebec, the last significant Canadian manufacturer. The bad news is that the same year, the federal budget proposed increasing tariffs on a wide variety of imported goods, including bicycles. The federal government’s Economic Action Plan 2013 contained language about “modernizing” Canada’s General Preferential Tariff (GPT) regime. This saw tariffs increase on 1,200 consumer products – including bicycles – from 8% to 13% by early 2015.

Toronto’s 2,500 square-foot bicycle-parking facility at Union Station

“Canada imports $125 million in bicycles from the 72 countries impacted by the Conservative [Government] tax increase. The tariff increases will cost Canadian cyclists between $5 and $6 million annually,” read part of a statement from the New Democratic Party in 2013. China and Taiwan (which some consider part of China) are the two major producers of bicycles today. The new tariffs on the 1,200 products, including bicycles, were expected to bring in some $333 million in additional annual tariff revenues for Ottawa. “CIBRA continues to work with members – both retailers and suppliers – to address the issue of taxation in all its forms, nationally and provincially,” said Bill Yetman, Canadian Independent Bicycle Retailers Association (CIBRA) executive director in February 2016. CIBRA continues the work previously done by Bicycle Trade Association of Canada. “In a tough economic climate where the independent market in Canada is competing against online sites globally offering product at significantly reduced prices to the consumer, big-box competition and ever-increasing expenses from rent to salaries, governments in Canada at all levels need to find ways to help sustain and grow small independent bike dealers and the industry generally. Reviewing all aspects of taxation on the consumer should be the new [federal] government’s priority,” concludes Yetman. Ironically, in 2013, the federal government announced $76 million of cuts in tariffs on sports items – notably on hockey gear, but not bikes – as reported by Canadian Business. Joy Nott, the president of the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters (I. E. Canada), has attacked recent tariff changes, saying they will have a wide and negative effect on consumers, while suggesting the sporting-good tariff reductions were “a smokescreen.” “The bottom line is that we’re looking at higher prices, and we’re already looking at price discrepancies with the U.S. because [U.S. tariffs are lower],” Kevin Senior, one of the owners of Canada’s largest independent bike dealer, Calgary’s Bow Cycle, has said previously. “Because virtually every bike sold at a retail level in Canada is imported, the price change would strike widely.” Not helping is the dramatic drop in the Canadian dollar’s value from near parity with U.S. currency in 2013 to only 73¢ [US] today (as of press time). Some projections suggest that the Canadian dollar could fall as low as 60¢ [US], dragged down by lower oil prices. While bicycle retailers in Canada are a tough and resourceful crew, small businesses everywhere welcome a helping hand. – John Symon ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 31

Golden 24 On June 18-19, the historic mountain town of Golden, B.C. will team up with legendary TransRockies Events to bring 24-hour mountain-bike racing to the heart of Kicking Horse Country. A first for Golden and a revival of the classic 24-hour race format, the Golden 24 will offer riders of any calibre the chance to test their endurance, technical skills and night vision on some of the most beautiful singletrack in Canada. by Paul Newitt

ituated in the Mountain Shadows trail network (which along with the Moonraker trail system provide more than 100 kilometres of cross-country singletrack biking), Golden 24 will offer racers a 14km loop that begins and ends at the Keith King Memorial Park in Golden. While the Park will become a familiar lap sight for solo riders, it will also function as the transition area for team categories made up of two, four, five and 10 riders. Aaron McConnell, president of TransRockies Events, notes that Golden 24 is “suitable for intermediate or beginner mountain bikers. We’ve incorporated more intermediate singletrack, and the technical sections are relatively short, so it’s very doable for the average rider. There are 500 metres of climbing and descending per lap and the technical sections are, at most, in the blue-level difficulty category.” McConnell also notes that there is an eight-hour race option if 24 hours seems it might be 16 hours too long to be on a bike. All participants will also have the option to camp within the Keith King Memorial Park grounds from June 17-19. Local entertainment, a food concession, beer garden and an expo featuring local vendors will create a festival atmosphere that will be enjoyed by spectators and participants alike. As McConnell points out, “The timing of this event is in line with Summer Solstice, so we are going to have great lighting throughout the event. It’s an event we have been looking forward to since Golden hosted Stage Four and Five of the TransRockies Singletrack 6 mountain-biking race in 2014. That event attracted more than 300 participants from 18 countries, and those two stages were voted ‘Favourite Race Stages’ and ‘Community’ by those athletes.” Joanne Sweeting, executive director of Tourism Golden, also expresses excitement for this year’s inaugural race: “We’re thrilled to have our own signature event and to have the opportunity to showcase some of the best biking terrain in North America to our visitors.” Tourism Golden first approached TransRockies in 2014 regarding hosting a stand-alone Golden-focused mountain-biking event. With its event history, vibrant mountain-biking culture and ample and diverse trail networks, Tourism Golden won the contract. The Golden 24 will receive community support from the Golden Cycling Club, Town of Golden and Tourism Golden. McConnell notes that Golden 24 is expecting several hundred participants in the first year, mainly represented by British Columbia and Alberta, and that portions of all entries will go toward supporting the Golden Cycling Club and Golden Trail Network development. TransRockies Events specializes in endurance, cycling and running events, and along with more than 15 years of event-management experience, it is a North American leader in event management and logistics. To register, visit www.golden24.ca/registration/.

32 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

www.pedalmag.com

Dave Best

Spectacular views from Canyon Creek, one of the signature singletrack trails of the Moonraker trail system, which runs along the edge of a 200m meter canyon.

ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 33

Singletrack 6 RIDE THE WEsT

photos: johN giBsoN

by Catharine Pendrel

Penticton for the final three days. Next year, I will follow with envy as it passes through the Kootenays region of British Columbia. My 2015 race schedule was already jam-packed with events, but there was a 10-day window at “home” between races that fell over Singletrack 6, so I decided to use three of these to do the Singletrack 3 option as a training block, while my husband stayed for the full-race adventure. Even though the 2015 version of Singletrack 6 was in our region of B.C., somehow it managed to include 80% new-to-us trails, which made it even better than going somewhere farther away. Not only would we get a cool race experi-

Multi-day mountain-bike stage races are quickly becoming my favourite form of racing, especially when they have timed descent portions!

he past several seasons, I have been fortunate to do the BC Bike Race three times and to add Singletrack 3: Ride the West to my season in 2015. Both were amazing! After eight years of racing cross-country World Cups as a Professional, I still love being challenged to find my best form and skill at international cross-country events, but I also crave the more relaxed racing community and the challenging adventure that stage racing offers. These are events where you are out there, day after day exploring and experiencing riding and racing with others who share your passion, where each night you rehash tales from that day over good food and plan for the next day’s adventure. Although, like me, my husband’s passion for riding has steadily increased over the years, his desire to race short-format cross-country races has decreased. And although he was drawn to the multi-day stage-race format, the ticket price of stage races can be intimidating. For years, he kept putting the idea of doing one on the backburner, but to keep motivated to train, you need to have goals that excite you, and racing Singletrack 6: Ride the West was one of them. This year, Singletrack 6 passed through the Thompson-Okanagan region of B.C., our region. It was too good of an opportunity for us to pass up. Singletrack 6 (of TransRockies lineage) is unique as a stage race, as it changes regions of British Columbia each year. Last year, we drooled over the idea of racing through Revelstoke and Golden; this year, we thrilled at the chance to race Salmon Arm’s Rubberhead trails, Silver Star’s new alpine loops and Vernon’s Big Ed, host of a B.C. Enduro race, before heading to Kelowna and

34 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

ence, but we would also be adding hundreds of kilometres of singletrack to our local riding repertoire, and, I won’t lie, it feels awesome to hear riders from other areas getting stoked about your local trails. The events were incredibly well-organized, with (above right) Pendrel’s husband, Keith Wilson took pre-race meetings and course information/mapin the full-race adventure ping. You could choose to provide your own accommodations and meals or purchase an accommodations-and-meals package. Having recently embraced the camperized Sprinter-van lifestyle, we took this option out camping in each city near the race start, rolling out of bed, making camp breakfast, joining the race and then lounging on the grass after the race with the other racers, enjoying whichever local cafe or restaurant was nearby. My husband and I both raced solo, but there are options to race as mixed or same-gender teams. It was the first time I had done a stage race solo. In my past three stage-race experiences, I had had my Luna teammates Katerina Nash and Maghalie Rochette and also my Canadian National teammate Geoff Kabush to work with, to push me and to make me laugh, but racing solo was also amazing because of the camaraderie that develops with the other racers during the event. Typically, you find the other riders who are at your speed and skill level pretty early on in a stage race and ride together for at least parts of each day. And, of course, I had my husband to compete with every day for the house title of fastest descender. One day, we actually finished the same descent with the same time of 9:00:02, even though we were nowhere near each other in the race. Can you tell we ride together a lot? I left after three days of racing completely stoked on the good life and riding and sad to be missing out on the full adventure, settling for play-by-plays over the phone after each day. Mountain-bike stage races in B.C. offer so much of what I love: a friendly, stoked-on-trails-and-the-outdoors community; amazing singletrack; meeting new people from all over the world; wicked racing; adventure; and a fun challenge. If Singletrack 6 is on your bucket list, make sure you check it off. (above left and middle) Catharine Pendrel enjoyed using the Singletrack 3 option to fit in some extra training between races.

www.pedalmag.com

RIDER PROFILE by JOHN SYMON

MIKE WOODS

Cannondale Pro Cycling Team

Favourite leisure ride? In Ottawa, a quick rip around the Gatineau Park is pretty nice (when I leave from my house, I literally don’t hit a single light). Number of bikes in your garage? I have seven bikes, and I am contemplating buying two more. My Cannondale Supersix Evo is for sure my favourite. Favourite Race? The Philly Cycling Classic seems to stand out. It has a great crowd, a really a cool course. The other race that comes to mind is the Quebec GP. The fact that it is on Canadian soil puts it a cut above the rest. Day-off activities? A lot of lying around, watching movies, and listening to music; I take my off days seriously.. 36 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

A climbing specialist, he set an unofficial new world record in 2013 of 2:32:24 on the 56-kilometre, 3,055-metre Haleakala climb in Hawaii.

ike Woods, 29, is a runner-turned cyclist who specializes in climbing. In 2013, he set an unofficial new world record of 2:32:24 on the 56-kilometre, 3,055-metre Haleakala climb in Hawaii. Woods showed the same stuff at the 2015 Tour of Utah as he shot up a 15% hill to win Stage Five, dropping the international peloton. The Ottawa, Ont. man is also quickly climbing up within the international peloton, landing his first Professional contract with Garneau-Quebecor Continental Trade Team in 2013; by late 2015, he signed with the WorldTour team Cannondale. Already in 2016, he has twice been on the podium at Australia’s Tour Down Under (TDU). Pedal caught up with Woods in Girona, Spain, shortly after the TDU. He obviously prepared well for that race, traditionally dominated by the Aussies. “B2Ten put up funds for me to travel to Arizona and do a high-altitude camp in December. They also helped put me up in Australia, to adapt to the heat of this race. Doing the altitude camp was crucial in helping me build a solid foundation for the season, and getting my weight down (something that needed to be done after my gluttonous off-season!) and the early heat adaptation in Adelaide was certainly a difference-maker.” Despite the arduous training regimen, Woods enjoys his new lifestyle: “The luxuries, having great staff, great gear, great bikes and being treated so well by race organizers and fans are awesome. It is an entirely different level from when I first started, having to pin on my numbers while shivering in a Honda Civic shared by a bunch of buddies. I get to do what I love, people pay me very well and treat me very well so that I can, effectively, play, and play to the best of my abilities; it is pretty hard to complain . . . .” Woods is also very impressed with the high level of competition at the TDU: “Pretty much every rider at this level is a winner and, typically, a prolific winner. In order to get to this level, you normally have to win a lot of bike races. Even the guys who are getting bottles have often won big races. This past week, Moreno Moser, a guy who has won Stadre Bianche, was riding on the front of the peloton in order to help our team get results.” Woods will likely spend the next few months in Europe. On his radar in 2016 are the Ardennes Classics and the Rio Olympics. He also hopes to be back in Ottawa for the National Road Championships. His preparation for Rio will likely be in the U.S.A. “My wife and I have been very lucky to be traveling the world, but we definitely do miss our family and friends. My recent good results were a product of the help and work of a lot of people back home in Canada. B2Ten has helped put a great integrated-support team behind me. My buddies at the Cyclery (local Ottawa shop), advice from friends and the incredible guidance from my coach, Paulo Saldanha, have all helped get me to this level!” www.pedalmag.com

We cordially invite you to our 1 Year Anniversary Party Saturday 9, April 2016 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 24 Karl Fraser Road, Toronto (Shops at Don Mills) RSVP by March 31 Angela – info@the11inc.com

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RIDER PROFILE BY SanDRa WalTER

AlliSon beveridGe

gUy swArBricK

Favourite leisure ride? There was one day riding up the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand that was just really gorgeous. We rode through all these trees and on pretty quiet roads to the beach and spent the afternoon sitting in one of the most stunning cafes. And we’d just had the most perfect tailwinds. It was wonderful. number of bikes in your garage? Five. Favourite Race? World Championships – the atmosphere is really great and everyone’s at their best; it’s kind of a special race. Day-off activities? Walking my dog, Tilly, when I’m at home. I also like my rest, I like my sleep. I nap a lot. It’s one of my better qualities. 38 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

Canada’s Allison Beveridge won women’s Omnium gold on Day 3 of the UCI Track World Cup #2 in New Zealand.

anadian track cyclist Allison Beveridge has kept a low profile despite top Individual international finishes in addition to the multiple medals she has won with her women’s Team Pursuit squad mates. Last December in New Zealand, the 22-year-old Calgary, Alta. native scored surprise gold in only her second World Cup Omnium competition, after snatching silver in the women’s Team Pursuit the previous day. “I don’t mind flying under the radar . . . I’m kind of comfortable there,” said a soft-spoken Beveridge. Her palmarés also include Individual bronze medals in the Scratch race at the 2015 World Championships and in the road race at the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games. Now she’s has the Rio 2016 Olympics in her sights. Although she clearly has Omnium savvy, the women’s Team Pursuit has been the young rider’s main focus for the past three years, and she’s one of seven contenders currently training full time to represent Canada in that event at the Rio Games in August, for which only five will be selected. However, taking to the boards in the New Zealand Omnium was a welcome challenge for this track powerhouse. “The Omnium is definitely fun for me,” she said. “I went through the junior years doing the Omnium and the bunch racing, so it’s something I have a background in and I do enjoy.” Beveridge, the youngest of three girls, followed in her older sisters’ tire tracks and began cycling in her teens after nine years as a competitive swimmer. She is known for her powerful kick and is considered a sprinter among the Endurance riders. She was candid about what it’s like being on one of the world’s top women’s Team Pursuit squads as the team strives toward bettering Canada’s bronze from the 2012 London Olympics: “It’s definitely a weird event and weird dynamic that you get, but it’s actually really kind of cool.” She enjoys the tightknit environment on the squad, but admits it’s not always smooth sailing: “It’s kind of like siblings,” she said. It’s the nature of the event that makes the teammates’ relationships challenging, the fierce internal competition to make the cut for such big events as the World Championships and the Olympics, yet it’s this very rivalry that has made the team successful, according to Beveridge. “I think definitely right now we have the strongest team we’ve had with seven girls, and we’re only getting faster and fitter, and there’s just a bit more competition for spots and a bit more people just pushing each other, but I think it’s made us a better team,” she said. Beveridge is motivated to give her all leading up to Rio, but she hasn’t forgotten what attracted her to the sport in the first place: “It’s fun to go fast,” she said. But cycling isn’t her sole ambition. After the 2016 season, the pragmatic redhead would like to go back to her studies and finish a degree in kinesiology, exercise and health physiology in Edmonton, Alta. “I really haven’t nailed down what I want to do, but I think after 2020 that will be it for me and cycling. I like riding my bike, but I think I’ll be ready to move on by then.” Until then, Beveridge is committed to pushing herself and her teammates faster, higher, stronger. www.pedalmag.com

Crédit Photo: @pétéphotographie

QUÉBEC CITY / SEPTEMBER 9

MONTRÉAL / SEPTEMBER 11

BIKE TEST

Cervélo R3 Disc by Tim Lefebvre

THE BIKE Price:

4,750

Weight:

950g (frame)

Components:

Shimano Ultegra mechanical with FSA SL-K crankset

Frame/Fork:

Cervélo All-Carbon

Geometry:

73.5° headtube/73° seat-tube

Sizes:

48, 51, 54, 56, 58 and 61cm

Comments:

Stops on a dime and turns heads.

the ride The designers and composite engineers at Cervélo have been busy creating road frames that will accommodate the new disc-brake technology that has been proven in the mountain-bike circle and now promises to light up the road scene. The Cervélo R3 Disc was designed in Toronto, Ont., and debuted this past year under the Professional team of MTN Quebeka. A mountain of research and design challenged the Toronto team to come up with a frame that simply had more than a set of disc brakes thrown on it. The team chose the acclaimed R3 model to modify, as it is not as completely race-driven as the R5, and will ultimately complement the new braking system. The R3 frame modifications do not affect the proven geometry, nor are the Squoval tube shapes changed, therefore there is no change to the bike’s torsional stiffness. The major difference in this rig is that the rear triangle is now a single piece, eliminating bond joints, producing a strong, stiff, more stable structure. With the brake bridge now gone, effectively there are different strains on the chainstays, which have been taken into account. The seatstays and chainstays are both asymmetric, but the seatstays are angled out more to accommodate a wider rear hub, and are actually stiffer than the original monostay design. The left seatstay connects at the back of the dropout to accommodate the new disc, whereas the right stay meets the dropout at a slightly higher point. Cervélo has been able to keep the length of the chainstay to 405mm, maintaining the great feel of the original R3’s back end. To achieve this, the bike is spec’d with an FSA SL-K crank that has a 5mm offset to ensure the correct chainline. As you can imagine, when you start to make radical changes to a rear-triangle’s geometry, the chainline can be affected. The cassette has been moved 2.5mm to the right to accommodate the Cervélo team’s decision to offset the chainline from 43.5mm to 46mm. An equally important adjustment in the back end was the implementation of thru-axles, which improve alignment by creating a continuous and precise surface between the rear axle and the derailleur, resulting in even greater shifting mechanics. In addition, these axles prevent accidental wheel dropouts and boost lateral stiffness in the front end’s disc-specific fork. Compatibility with other braking systems was also important to the Cervélo 40 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

team, which is why the R3 Disc was designed for the flat-mounting standard. Both front and rear mounts can be flipped for the use of 140mm or 160mm rotors without an adapter. Thus, this frame has full compatibility with any disc-brake system currently in the marketplace. “Future-proof” cable routing also remains to ensure that the frame is compatible with all systems, while the disc-brake cables are also housed for ease. The Cervélo R3 Disc, available this spring, comes dressed in full mechanical Shimano Ultegra with the aforementioned FSA SL-K carbon crank. Also present is the SL-K bar/stem combo and seatpost, with a nice fi’zi:k Antares V5 saddle. Underneath is a very sweet pair of HED carbon clinchers, sporting Continental Grandsport 25’s. The paint job is new, but one we have seen on other rides: a glossy black toptube with flat matte black throughout the rest of the bike. It looks stealthy and very sexy out of the box, and is sure to turn heads. www.pedalmag.com

Comfort and performance go hand-in-hand on this ride. The carbon continues to soak up the bumps, while having that nice, light, responsive feel under big-ring pressure.

Every time I jump on a great carbon frame, there is an unmistakable glide that I love experiencing, and this ride does not disappoint, though the bigger tire does have a bulkier feel that keeps speed in check. The stability felt from the R3 platform is phenomenal. Both the main triangle and rear triangle make for an uncompromised ride that performs well under pressure. Standing on the bike pedals through a series of hills and sprints assures that nothing has changed from Pedal’s original R3 test. Shifting under load is smooth and crisp, even with mechanical. Of course, the difference is essentially stopping power, and testing this was a pleasure. The sensation is similar to a mountain bike that has discs, as you feel the bike heave to a stop at a lower place on the frame, and it does feel more stable and secure. The braking power is impressive under a normal load and normal conditions, and would be appreciated on a nice three-kilometre switchback descent in the rain. www.pedalmag.com

Comfort and performance go hand-in-hand on this ride. The carbon continues to soak up the bumps, while having that nice, light, responsive feel under big-ring pressure. The wheelset has been spec’d beautifully, providing a nice undercarriage for such an esteemed platform. The old R3 has hit the podium at Paris-Roubaix six times throughout the past seven years. It seems this new ride could only enhance the experience with its better braking, a clearance for thicker tires and a rear triangle that is even more stable. It remains to be seen if disc brakes are here to stay, and there is no doubt that new technology is keen to accommodate them. In that light, Cervélo has done due diligence in creating a bicycle frame that not only performs under pressure with disc brakes, but also manages to embrace safety as well as “cool” factor – well done, Cervélo! www.cervelo.com ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 41

BIKE TEST

DE ROSA Idol by Nick Chistoff

THE BIKE Price:

$4,999

Weight:

n/a

Components:

Shimano Ultegra 6800, 11-speed, FSA seatpost, handlebars and stem

Frame/Fork:

T1000 and T800 carbon fibre

Geometry:

73° headtube/73° seat-tube

Sizes:

47, 49.5, 52, 54.5 (tested), 57 and 59.5cm

Comments:

An Italian superbike for everyday use.

the ride De Rosa is a legendary Italian brand steeped in history, and Pedal was stoked to test its Idol model last fall. When the carbon-fibre steed arrived, it was lust at first sight. De Rosa is a family company started in 1958 by Ugo De Rosa, whose passion for bicycle racing led him to study mechanics and engineering at a technical college. This technical expertise and the attention to detail on his racing frames began to attract the interest of top racers. De Rosa bicycles have been a fixture in the Professional peloton since the 1960’s, most famously supplying the bikes for the legendary Eddie Merckx. When Merckx decided to retire from racing and open his own bicycle-manufacturing shop, De Rosa was asked to provide technical assistance. Helped by his three sons, Ugo has continually researched and developed frame materials over the years, becoming expert in the use of steel, aluminum, titanium and, lately, carbon fibre. While prepping my test bike, I checked out the De Rosa Idol up close. Comprised of two different types of modulus carbon fibres, the frame is a modern design, with its tapered headtube leading into a square-edged downtube that connects to the BB386 bottom bracket. The chainstays flow seamlessly from there to the rear dropouts. On many machines, this is a massive-looking area, but the Idol cuts a slimmer profile here. The toptube is a more complex-looking affair that takes the eye in a direct line from the headtube across the seat-tube to the thin, slightly flattened seatstays. De Rosa refers to this as the Arc Slope concept – a reduction in material around the brake bridge and seatstays results in a more comfortable ride while maintaining maximum rigidity. The test bike was coated in a matte black-and-gray finish highlighted by ghosted graphics of the company and model names, with De Rosa’s signature red heart placed in strategic spots. All of the components seem selected to complement the frame as well. Shimano’s Ultegra 6800 11-speed gruppo was gray in 42 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

colour. The black FSA Vero Compact handlebar was wrapped in white bar tape. The Selle Italia saddle, with its De Rosa logo perched atop the black FSA SL-280 seatpost, was also white. The Vittoria Rubino Pro tires had a wide white strip down the center of the tread, and there were red spoke nipples on the blackrimmed Fulcrum Racing Quattro wheelset. To me, in true Italian fashion, the whole package was a visual delight. The Idol is, first and foremost, a race bike, and after swapping out the stem for a shorter version and sliding the seat a bit forward, I was centered on this ride and ready to go. As you might expect, the De Rosa is no slouch when you www.pedalmag.com

The Idol excels on climbs, but is also confidence-inspiring on the descents, holding the line you choose and responding instantly to changes without feeling skittish.

want instant acceleration. It feels light and lively when you stand on the pedals for that extra effort, especially on steep ascents. The Idol excels on climbs, but is also confidence-inspiring on the descents, holding the line you choose and responding instantly to changes without feeling skittish. Heavy braking does not upset the chassis either. This is a well-balanced, also comfortable racing bike. After a few hours in the saddle, I still felt fairly fresh, with a minimum of aches and pains – the dampening of road vibration is that good. In short, the De Rosa Idol is a great all-around Performance bike. If this was my do-it-all road ride, I think a lighter wheelset and racing tires might be www.pedalmag.com

in order for competition, but it is certainly not a requirement, as the Fulcrum Racing 4’s are light enough and tough enough for everyday use and the occasional dust-up. The Idol frame is also able to accommodate electronic shifting, so perhaps Shimano’s Di2 system might be on the wish list to replace the slick-shifting Ultegra mechanical system. It all depends on the size of your budget, though whatever the options, the De Rosa Idol is a great-looking bike that gets the job done in style. www.logicasport.com ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 43

BIKE TEST

NORCO Tactic Ultegra by Paul Newitt

THE BIKE Price:

$3,415

Weight:

1,050g (frame)

Components:

Shimano Ultegra 11-speed, Fulcrum Racing 5 LG Wheels

Frame/Fork:

Tactic mid-modulus carbon

Geometry:

72.75° headtube/° seat-tube N/A

Sizes:

48, 50.5, 53 (tested), 55.5, 58 and 60.5cm

Comments:

Pro-level ride at an entry-level price.

the ride If your 2016 resolution was to lose weight, get fitter, get faster and kick some serious asphalt this season, Norco has the perfect motivational tool to help you reach that goal – the Tactic Ultegra. If resolutions aren’t your thing and winter hibernation with Christmas cheer and shortbread have taken their toll, not a problem. The 2016 Tactic is lighter, stronger and faster, even if you’re not. Combining tried-and-true technologies with redefined materials and engineering and feedback from Pro Team H&R Block, Norco indicates that it has increased frame stiffness by 10%, while decreasing weight and improving aerodynamics and comfort on the Tactic. At the heart of the Tactic Ultegra lies a 1,050g mid-modulus carbon-calibre frame that incorporates one of Norco’s key features – the Power Chassis. The Power Chassis is an amalgamation of tapered headtube, oversized downtube, BB shell and chainstays that work in unison to provide an efficient, powerful energy-transfer system. I noticed the stiff pedaling platform provides a solid feel and rapid acceleration with each crank stroke. Stiffness also comes into play with the Tactic’s redesigned carbon fork that delivers noticeable race-ready responsiveness in the front end – Norco claims to offer 35% less aerodynamic drag than previous incarnations. Stiffness is one characteristic that riders want in a quality carbon frame, but not at the expense of weight, durability or road vibration. To tackle this and also ensure the Tactic frame is comfortable, light and long-lasting, Norco has incorporated several technologies into the bike, such as Applied Road Compliance (ARC) Race technology, ArmorLite, Smoothcore and Size-Scaled Tubing. ARC seatstays allow the rear triangle to be vertically compliant, damping road vibrations, while remaining laterally stiff for efficient power transfer. ArmorLite is a resin that is engineered to increase the carbon’s impact resistance, and because of its strength, it can be used in moderation to keep the frame weight down. Smoothcore also helps the Tactic stay lean and mean by limiting excess material use, while keeping the inner carbon surfaces smooth. Norco has also integrated Size-Scaled Tubing into its Tactic line, which means that each frame size has different tube thicknesses so that the ride expe44 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

rience remains consistent from small to large frames. Another feature on the Tactic’s frame is the GIZMO cable system, which offers two-piece plugs to create a tight seal on the frame and hold cables firmly while keeping them quiet inside the frame. The Tactic Ultegra is, of course, outfitted with full Shimano Ultegra ST-6800 11-speed drivetrain components and brake levers, which, if you’re a fan of Shimano and a serious rider, is an excellent component package at a competitive price. Norco has also introduced a new integrated direct-mount braking system www.pedalmag.com

This bike is a solid, powerful ride that gives you plenty of confidence and motivation to push your limits and tackle any challenge in your local terrain.

that provides solid brake control and modulation for quick stops or long highspeed descents. The Ultegra BR-6810 direct-mount caliper brakes provided fatigue-free control and nice modulation on both short steep and long drawnout descents. This ride also features Fulcrum Racing 5 LG wheels, which have been redesigned this year with a wider rim to accommodate 25c tires, which just happens to be the size the Tactic Ultegra comes with in the form of Continental Grand Sport Race w/NyTech tires. We found the 25c tires equate to a more comfortable ride profile, with positive traction and good durability. www.pedalmag.com

While the Tactic Ultegra may not be touted as a Pro-level carbon machine, someone forgot to let it know. This bike is a solid, powerful ride that gives you plenty of confidence and motivation to push your limits and tackle any challenge in your local terrain. Pedal efficiency and stiffness are tangible and stand out during climbs and sprints. The front end of the Tactic Ultegra also handles like a pro in its precision, race-like reflexes and control. As the entry-level bike in the Tactic line, the Ultegra model has much to offer recreational riders and racers alike. www.norco.com ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 45

BIKE TEST

scapin Ivor by Tim Lefebvre

THE BIKE Price:

$5,000 frame/fork

Weight:

1,050g for the frame, 350g for the fork and 14.5 lbs. for a complete bike

Components:

Components: Campagnolo Chorus 11-speed

Frame/Fork:

High-modulus carbon (T700 and T800 UD)

Geometry:

73° headtube, 73.5° seat-tube

Sizes:

XS, S, M, L, XL and XXL

Comments:

Tradition with innovation equals art.

the ride Umberto Scapin was a Pro cyclist in the Veneto region of Italy, who, after his career was over, began Scapin Bicycles in 1957. Working with his two sons to develop the brand, it would be son Stefano who continued the tradition and would ultimately join forces with Cicli Olympia in 2005 to the current day. Handcrafted entirely in Italy, the Scapin line has been revamped with new designs, finishes, models and, more importantly, attention to detail. The renowned craftsmanship of its new framesets has awarded it a place among the elite in Italy. Pedal was able to land a test ride on the top-of-the-line Ivor model. Dressed in Campagnolo Chorus, the Ivor showed up in late fall looking every bit the sleek Italian racing machine. Providing a number of different build-kits and a custom option as well, this company also boasts a lifetime warranty on the frame for the first owner. Production of the Scapin frameset is an intricate process, and what follows are a few of the subtleties that differentiate this company. It works with Toray Industries to develop carbon-fibre tubes. Toray, famous for its work in this field, has blended the headtube and downtube into a single tube to allow an incredible interface stiffness. As well, the seat-tube and bottom-bracket shell share this principle, again creating maximum stiffness at this most important junction. Asymmetric chainstays allow for different geometries and greater stiffness on the driveside. Seatstays have a nice-looking curve to them with the CFS technology at work – more on that later. Much of the design and thought process centers around the stresses of each point on the frame. Scapin refers to the blending of these tubes as the “TT Matrix.” Prepared in a jig, the Scapin frame begins to take shape under a watchful eye. Once the angles are calculated, the tubes are fitted. One of the unique things about the downtube and seat-tube is that they are molded to create an overlap where the downtube fits over the seat-tube/BB structure. With epoxy and more carbon-fibre overlay, vacuum bagging and baking under pressure and heat, the beginnings of a frame appear, with the TT Matrix ideology safely incorporated. 46 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

Vibration concerns have been addressed with the rear-triangle technology termed CFS, found in all high-end Scapin models. The Comfort flex system principle that optimizes shapes and sections of the high rear stays and traditional leaf spring shape guarantees a 30% increase in comfort. Staying with the rear triangle, you will notice the D-Double – double machined-aluminum dropout hangers. Designed to decrease wear on the carbon and to increase the life of the frame, these dropouts are a sole body with the stays, and are extremely strong and compact and bring a touch of Italian aesthetics. If aesthetics are what you’re after, this company has created the latest buzz in paint. Combining a glossy top layer on the top- and downtubes, the rest remains in classic black matte. Mix in some red accents on the seat clamp and seatpost and a touch of green on the decals and it creates a very sharp-looking package. As mentioned previously, this ride is available in a number of different build-kits. The Ivor tested would be classified as the S4 on the Stage-Race Distribution website. Dressed in complete Campagnolo Chorus 11-speed with fi’zi:k www.pedalmag.com

Handcrafted entirely in Italy, the Scapin line has been revamped ... The renowned craftsmanship of its new framesets has awarded it a place among the elite in Italy.

bar-and-stem combination and a carbon Ursus CE 38mm-clincher wheelset, this bike was ready for a test ride. For most of my reviews, I like to concentrate on the frame and fork’s ability and performance, as the gruppo and wheels can always change. This ride looked the part and its pedigree and history are secure, so how does it perform on the road? Blasting away from the driveway, the initial feel is a little stiff, whippy and uncomfortable. But remember, most bikes are, until position is dialed in correctly and one gets used to what is actually underneath. The Ivor has a great feeling of smooth and true at speed, there are no annoying carbon cracks or creaks, and the absorption of the rear-triangle vibrations is noticeable. A few more stops and tweaks of the Allen key and we are in business for some stomping of the pedals. Standing on the pedals, the bottom-bracket shell does a great job carrying the weight and torque of a big effort. There is little-to-no give through the drivetrain, making for a great feel while climbing and sprinting. The frame tracks very nicely for a “Large” frame, and would probably be even more rewww.pedalmag.com

sponsive in its smaller sizes. Cornering was also decent, and again would be improved with a 23” tire rather than the standard 25” of most bikes. I loved how the frameset responded to quick bursts of effort through corners and up short, punchy climbs. The ability of the frame to handle different types of adversity is key. This frame has the ability to create an atmosphere of competency and trust, which, as you know, is paramount in reaching our goals on the bike. Once past the four-hour mark on the Ivor, I start to appreciate the dampening effect of this quality of carbon and realize that each tube, and the engineering behind it, helps with the comfort factor. Performance and comfort are rarely synonymous, and it’s apparent that Scapin’s design team has made this a priority. This bike is an excellent example how this kind of frame can be dressed for high-performance racing or group coffee rides and has the diversity to excel and meet the expectations of each customer, wherever a Sunday ride takes them. www.stage-race.com ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 47

BIKE TEST

MEC Provincial Road 222 by Braydon Bourne

THE BIKE Price:

$2,000

Weight:

10.19kg (Medium)

Components:

SRAM Rival 22 hydraulic, FSA

Frame/Fork:

Reynolds 520 steel frame/MEC carbon fork

Geometry:

72° headtube, 73° seat-tube

Sizes:

XXS-XL (Large tested)

Comments:

Bang for your buck and designed in Canada.

the ride Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) has been providing outdoor gear to Canadians since 1971. Originally focused on climbing and mountaineering equipment, MEC has expanded into equipment for many outdoor sports, including cycling products. Beginning in 2009 with its own house models, along the way it picked up two quality brands in Ghost for the MTB market, and Ridley for road and cyclocross riders. Pedal was stoked to test MEC’s 2016 Provincial Road 222 road bike and discovered how bang-for-your-buck rings true in MEC’s bike division. In a nutshell, the MEC Provincial Road 222 is an excellent all-round machine that delivers exceptional value. Perfectly suited for the increasingly popular “gravel grind” and adventure-style riding, this ride is well spec’d and aims to please a variety of cyclists or one cyclist with a variety of ideas. The Reynolds 520 tubing makes for a light, durable frame that possesses chameleon qualities, as this ride can be adapted to suit any need. Ample tire clearance allows for treaded tires so you could try cyclocross racing or install fenders for an awesome commuter bike. Swap in lighter tires for a road group ride or load it up with racks and panniers for a comfortable touring set-up. The steel frame is snappy, responsive and respectably light. While not as light as carbon, the Reynolds 520 tubing rivals the weight of similar aluminum bikes while offering much better dampening properties and durability. The carbon seatpost and thru-axle carbon fork both complement this frame well, helping to absorb road vibrations while contributing to weight savings. The 35mm Clement X’Plor USH tires are a perfect match for this bike. Yes, they are much wider than traditional “road” tires, but the file tread combined with a solid centre bead allow for greater freedom. The higher volume tire 48 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

requires less air pressure, providing a better cushion that not only handles nicely, but also improves comfort and reduces the likelihood of pinch flats. Larger rocks and blunt objects are no longer feared, and the tires also absorb rough road very well, while providing excellent traction on dirt and gravel. The versatile Clement X’Plor USH tires pair well with the geometry of the Provincial Road 222 for great handling and seamless transitions over a multitude of terrain. Whether cornering on wet leaves in the city or descending at speeds of more than 70km/h on a gravel road, this bike remains stable and instills confidence no matter the conditions. The Alex CXD4 rims are tubeless-compatible, surprisingly light and performed well during the testing period. The wheels felt stiff enough under load, www.pedalmag.com

Whether cornering on wet leaves in the city or descending at speeds of more than 70km/h on a gravel road, this bike remains stable and instills confidence no matter the conditions.

paired well with the disc brakes and tires, but could be a choice component to upgrade if desired. The SRAM Rival DoubleTap shifters may take a bit of getting used to for Shimano users, but they’re lightweight and crisp. The drivetrain enables the Provincial Road 222 to venture farther off the beaten path with an FSA Gossamer Pro 50-34 crank and SRAM 11-32 cassette that offer a wide range of gears. Combined with the 35mm Clement tires, the Rival 22 groupset can handle steep gravel roads and tame singletrack and multi-use pathways without flaw. SRAM’s hydraulic disc brakes have excellent power modulation and performed consistently in all weather conditions. Braking in the wet felt much safer, while riding through mud and sand didn’t negatively impact the braking www.pedalmag.com

quality. Even at high speeds on varying terrain, the modulation and control of the brakes were solid. The clean classic lines of a Reynolds 520 frame are accentuated with a few red stripes and decals on the gloss black paint, a simple, classy look that will last as long as the frame itself. Additional touches such as a fi’zi:k Nisene saddle and simple cable routing bring added aesthetics and performance to the bike. Overall, the MEC Provincial Road 222 provides awesome value, especially for such a versatile bike. It is appropriately equipped, and was a pleasure to ride. With MEC’s Rocksolid Guarantee and Bike Service Agreement, it is an excellent starting point to your next adventure. www.mec.ca ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 49

out in front



BY Braydon Bourne

Russ Hays

ver the past four years, a small cycling project has grown into one of the best amateur squads in the country. Starting out as a humble Victoria-based racing team, Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s p/b Champion System has seen success on many levels. The starting point for this success is Russ Hay’s Racing Cycle Club Society (RHRCCS), a non-profit organization whose main goal is to grow and develop British Columbia’s cycling talent. Dependent entirely on the support of its sponsors, the volunteer-run RHRCCS provides support to young athletes who aspire to compete worldwide and represent their country on the international stage. In addition to the recreational cycling club, the RHRCCS’s main focus is its Elite team, Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s p/b Champion System formed in 2012 when veteran bike racer Jon Watkin teamed up with Mike and Marty Clermont (Russ Hay’s the Bicycle Shop) and John Espley (Accent Inns). “We recognized early on that Canada desperately needs more effort and resources to build and develop the high-performance cycling-talent pool . . . especially in road cycling,” explained Watkin, the team’s general manager. “The transition from Elite amateur to Professional cannot be achieved alone, and requires a platform that has a similar look/feel to a Professional team. We do our best to offer this to our athletes and give them a fully funded/supported program designed to maximize their potential.” Through excelling in bike races at the local and national level, the team has a positive impact on the local community, and offers an effective return on investment for its many great supporters. Although a dominant force in the Vancouver Island racing scene and throughout British Columbia, the 2013 National Road Championships proved to be a turning point and showcase for the Victoria-based squad. After long travel from Victoria, B.C. to SaintGeorges, Que., Curtis Dearden was crowned national champion in the 39km Individual time trial, ousting WorldTour riders and the rest of Canada’s finest. With Dearden in the National time-trial champion’s Maple Leaf skinsuit, fresh talent added to the roster and continued support from its sponsors, the Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s team charged into the 2014 season more motivated than ever. Roster addition Cody Canning started off the season riding for the West of Quebec Wheelers composite team at the Tour of Morocco, where he had a top-10 finish on Stage Five. Once back in Canada, Canning went on to win the B.C. Provincial Road Championships and the Canadian National Sprint Challenge, earning him entry into the Grand Prix Cycliste de Quebec event later in the year. At the Challenge Sprint Pro in Quebec City, Canning qualified for the finals and showed his own by winning the overall and defeating the WorldTour sprinters Brian Coquard (Europcar) and Steele von Hoff (Garmin-Sharp). Dearden was unable to defend his National champion’s skinsuit, but both he and Jordan Cheyne placed in the top 10 on the 40.4km Individual time trial parcours in Lac Mégantic, Que. Newcomer Dylan Davies was able to pull off the victory at the B.C. Provincial Criterium Championships, one of more than 50 victories for the 2014 Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s team. 50 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

Scott Robarts Photography

Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s p/b Champion System

Heading into the 2015 season, the Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s team yet again bolstered its roster with young talent. This time joining the force was Oliver Evans and Danick Vandale – two young Manitobans freshly crowned junior and U23 National Cyclocross champions respectively. Evans and Vandale both represented Canada at the UCI Cyclocross World Championships in Tabor, Czech Republic. Evans continued his 2015 success, winning the Junior Manitoba Provincial Time Trial and Criterium Championships and placing third at the National Cyclocross Championships in his hometown of Winnipeg, Man. Vandale won gold at the Western Canada Summer Games in the time trial, and pulled off second place at the National Cyclocross Championships in Winnipeg. The veterans performed in 2015 as well, with Canning taking the B.C. Provincial Criterium win and Dearden taking the B.C. Provincial Time Trial victory. Dylan Cunningham boosted his palmares with a third place at the B.C. Provincial Road Championships and a victory on the Queen stage of the Mutual Enumclaw Stage Race in Washington State. Including its own athletes, and sometimes bringing guest riders for more pre-eminent races, the Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s team has been successful in developing riders to move into the Professional ranks. Alumni Vandale, Jacob Schwingboth and Chris Prendergast (guest) have all gained valuable experience and moved on to H&R Block Pro Cycling, while 2014 alumnus Cheyne has signed with Jelly Belly p/b Maxxis for 2016. Developing young talent continues for 2016 with the signing of Isaac Niles, a promising U23 rider from Calgary, Alta., who raced for Team Canada at the UCI Cyclocross World Championships in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium. Other new additions come in the form of strong up-and-coming U19’s Kurt Penno, who won the 2015 Western Canada Summer Games Road race and fellow Manitoban Mitch Ketler. By coordinating sponsorship and following its mission of developing cycling while leading healthy and active athlete lifestyles, the Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s p/b Champion System team has paved the way to success at the international stage. With young riders coming from different parts of the country eager to train in the mild Victoria climate and to join a successful development program, the team aims to be one of the top trade squads in North America in 2016, and hopes to officially partner with a UCI Continental team as a feeder team by 2017. For more information, visit www.russhaysracing.com.

The Accent Inns/Russ Hay’s p/b Champion System team is helping young riders to pave the way to success on the international stage.

2016 Team Roster

Devon Moonie - 21 (Kamloops, B.C.) Amiel Flett-Brown - 21 (Vancouver, B.C.) Isaac Niles - 20 (Calgary, Alta.) Oliver Evans - 18 (Victoria, B.C.) Mitch Ketler - 18 (Winnipeg, Man.) Kurt Penno - 17 (Winnipeg, Man.)

Isaac Leblanc - 26 (Victoria, B.C.) Cody Canning - 27 (Victoria, B.C.) Dylan Cunningham - 24 (Victoria, B.C.) Cyclocross Raphael Lalumiere - 35 (Victoria, B.C.)

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by Braydon Bourne, Steve Fleck, Tim Lefebvre, paul newitt, Peter Kraiker, Stef Kraiker and Mike Sarnecki

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

Road Competition Over $6,000 50 Competition $3,000-$6,000 56 Competition Under $3,000 61 Endurance Over $3,00-$6,000 63 Endurance $3,000-$6,000 67 Endurance Under $3,000 69 Gravel 72 Cyclocross 74 Triathlon 76 Track 78 Time Trial 79

felt

Urban Performance/Hybrid 81 Comfort/Beach 84 Lifestyle/Fitness 88 Electric 90 Folding 92 Tandem 93 Singlespeed 93

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 51

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

ROAD

COMPETITION OVER $6,000

Pinarello Dogma F8 The infamous Pinarello Dogma line has produced two Tour de France titles, World Championships and more than 100 ProTour victories. The working group of Pinarello Lab, Team Sky and Jaguar collaborated to create the ultimate racing machine and brought the Pinarello Dogma F8 to life. Featuring T1100 1K carbon-fibre and nanoalloy technology, the asymmetric-frame profile optimizes stiffness, balance, aerodynamics and weight to create the new benchmark for road bikes. The SRP is $6,800.

Cube Litening C:68 SL The Cube Litening C:68 SL is lightweight and fast. Using Cube’s C:68 Monocoque Advanced Twin Mould production process, carbon fibres are distributed evenly and the amount of resin used is optimized. Specific frame areas are made with specific strengths of fibre that enhance both stiffness and comfort. The stretched geometry maintains agile handling while creating an efficient riding position. Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and Fulcrum Racing 44 Aero wheels complete the set-up that retails for $8,599.

Trek Madone 9.9 Trek’s Madone 9.9 fuses power, aerodynamics and ride quality into a fully integrated superbike thanks to modern engineering and countless hours of design. Featuring Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler, the seat-tube has the ability to pivot independently from the toptube/seatstay junction, providing maximum vertical compliance without compromising pedaling efficiency. The Madone 9.9 also features a fully integrated bar/stem combo and direct-mount brakes that are integrated into the frame. Among other features are a micro-adjust seatmast, Duotrap S Bluetooth/ANT+ sensor and Blendr-compatible stem mount. Customizable through Trek’s Project One program, the Madone 9.9 has a Dura-Ace Di2 drivetrain and Bontrager Aeolus 5 D3 TLR carbon wheels. The SRP is $15,199. 52 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

www.pedalmag.com

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

COMPETITION OVER $6,000

ROAD

Bianchi Specialissima CV The Bianchi Specialissima CV frame features patented Countervail technology to provide increased power transfer and ride control at a mere 780g (55cm frame). Developed for NASA by Materials Sciences Corporation, the Countervail integrated vibration-cancelling system allows for a better power transfer to the road. The monocoque carbon frame with tapered headtube and straight-blade fork has all hand-painted graphics and is available in seven sizes. The SRP is $6,999 (frameset).

Garneau Gennix A1 Elite Di2 The Garneau Gennix A1 is stiffer, lighter and faster than ever. Using RTCC2 carbon and NVM2 monocoque technology, the full-carbon frame is reinforced where necessary and as thin as possible where allowed, resulting in a stiff, light machine. Several aerodynamic concepts are included in the A1â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design: a wide fork, precise bottle-cage placement and a rear-wheel cutout, resulting in a bike that rides closer to the ground. With 11-speed Shimano Ultegra Di2, the Gennix A1 Elite has an SRP of $6,069.

Scott Addict SL The Scott Addict SLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Superlight HMX-SL NET carbon-fibre frame weighs in at less than 1kg. Using carbon-nanotube-reinforced epoxy with T1000G carbon fibre, the interlaminar shear strength is improved, which, in turn, strengthens the overall structure of the frame while keeping it very lightweight. The Addict also boasts F01 Aero technology that uses unique aerodynamics that apply specifically to bicycles and the speeds they encounter. The geometry of the Addict SL has been validated by the WorldTour teams Orica-GreenEDGE and IAM Cycling. The SRP is $12,599.

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 53

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

ROAD

COMPETITION OVER $6,000

Felt AR2 The Felt AR2 combines UHC Ultimate and TeXtreme carbon-fibre technology in an advantageous aerodynamic construction that results in a light, responsive frame. With oval-shaped tubes, the AR2 excels in the crosswinds, and the extra-wide chainstays provide rigidity for the pedal stroke. The electronic-specific cable routing is perfect for the 11-speed Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset. The SRP is $6,599.

Specialized S-Works Tarmac Disc Di2 In its rookie season, the S-Works Tarmac Disc Di2 won two Grand Tours and a World Championship. The S-Works FACT 11r carbon is the highest quality possible, and Specializedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rider-First Engineered design ensures peak performance across every frame size of the Tarmac. Featuring a tapered headtube, compact race design and internal cable routing, the S-Works Tarmac Disc Di2 has Roval Rapide CLX 40 Disc wheels and a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset with hydraulic disc brakes. The SRP is $9,999.

Carrera AR-01 The new and notable project from the Carrera podium workshop is the AR-01. Using an integrated geometry design, the AR-01 is light, rigid and aerodynamic: the perfect trio. Engineered to offer superior lateral stiffness and high torsional rigidity, the AR-01 transfers all power from the pedal stroke to the road. The toptube seamlessly intersects with Carreraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aerodynamic IAS stem system, and the 3BrakeSystem allows for caliper, disc or direct-mount brake options. The SRP is $7,299.

54 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

www.pedalmag.com

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

COMPETITION OVER $6,000

ROAD

Cervélo S5 Dura-Ace Di2 The Cervélo S5 prioritizes aerodynamics and stiffness for maximum efficiency. The extended seat-tube cutout, dropped downtube and shielding seatstays are all designed to smooth airflow over the bike and rider. With more than 100 unique frame iterations in the lay-up development alone, the new manufacturing techniques achieve tighter tolerances, thus minimizing weight and maximizing stiffness. Cervélo’s BBRight asymmetrical bottom bracket is 6% stiffer, and the cable guide has reduced friction for longer-lasting smooth shifting. Complete with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, the SRP is $10,500.

Cannondale SuperSix EVO Hi-Mod Team The SuperSix EVO Hi-Mod Team was designed using Cannondale’s System Integration model, incorporating cutting-edge frame design, custom-designed forks and drivetrain components as a complete system throughout the design process. Proprietary BallisTec carbon technology is used to form the Truncated Aero Profile tube shapes of the SuperSix EVO, resulting in a wind-cheating, stiff and lightweight frame and fork. Complete with Cannondale HollowGram SiSL2 crankset, Mavic Cosmic Pro wheels and a Dura-Ace Di2 drivetrain, the retail price is $13,320.

Colnago C60 Disc The C60 Disc from Colnago reveals new tube shapes and matching new lugs. The oversized downtube and asymmetric seat-tube are joined by the bottom-bracket lug, which as been designed to ensure maximum lateral stiffness. The one-piece forged and CNC-machined dropouts create a harmonius relationship between the rear wheel and the frame. The lighter and stiffer C60 Disc frame retails at $7,099.

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 55

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

ROAD

COMPETITION OVER $6,000

Ridley Noah SL 20 In addition to being the choice of WorldTour team Lotto-Soudal, the Ridley Noah SL 20 weighs in at only 950g. Combining innovative carbon-fibre lay-ups with new resin technologies, the Noah SL 20 has explosive power at a minimal weight. The wind-cheating F-surface technology reduces drag by 4% and provides uncompromised performance without sacrificing rider comfort. Shimano Dura-Ace drivetrain and deep-dish carbon wheels complete the Ridley Noah SL 20 at an SRP of $8,000.

De Rosa SK Pininfarina When the legendary Italian design firm teams up with a renowned Italian cycling brand, the result is the De Rosa SK Pininfarina. The extreme attention to detail and aerodynamic lines of the SK Pininfarina match perfectly with the four strengths of carbon fibre composing the sleek frame. Kammtail-profiled tubes, lowered seatstays and an integrated cockpit are only a couple of its features. Complete with Shimano Ultegra, the De Rosa SK Pininfarina retails for $6,275.

Giant TCR Advanced SL 1 The TCR Advanced SL 1 is the lightest road frame ever produced by Giant, and has the highest stiffness-to-weight ratio of any bike on the market. Providing an improved ride quality, the re-engineered frame features Advanced SL-grade composite technology and the new Variant integrated seatpost. The Overdrive 2 tapered headtube improves steering precision, while the Ridesense data transmitter provides ANT+ speed and cadence information from the chainstay to your device. The new Giant SLR 0 WheelSystem and Shimano Ultegra 11-speed groupset complete this ride at $6,949.

56 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

COMPETITION $3,000-$6,000

ROAD

KHS Flite 900 KHS’s Flite 900 is another bike to see updates for 2016. The monocoque T8 carbon frame is the lightest KHS offers, goes to direct-mount brakes this year, and features Modulus Specific Design that allows KHS to ride-tune the bike with varying carbon lay-ups. Spec’d with a full Shimano Ultegra 6800 kit and Shimano RS330 wheels, this machine is ready to race. The SRP is $4,499.

Bianchi Oltre XR.2 With a name meaning “beyond,” the Bianchi Oltre XR.2 frameset is designed to defy expectation. Refined for the needs of ProTour racers and discerning enthusiasts, this is a frameset that applies some of the most sophisticated carbon-manufacturing processes, the result being Bianchi’s most advanced frame to date. Features include ultrathin seatstays for improved shock absorption, wrinkleless molded carbon tubes that reduce excess material and weight, a new carbon formula that reduces weight while improving stiffness and an integrated seatpost. The frameset’s SRP is $5,999 (frameset).

Marin Stelvio Elite Ultegra For 2016, the Marin Stelvio Elite Ultegra frame gets some updated tube shapes, though otherwise remains very similar to its previous incarnation as a race-ready bike with enthusiast-level components. The T3 monocoque carbon frame is married to a full Shimano Ultegra group with 52/36T crankset and Mavic Ksyrium wheelset. The SRP is $3,899.

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 57

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

ROAD

COMPETITION $3,000-$6,000

Lapierre Aircode SL 500 A featherlight aero bike that’s seen some improvements since its 2014 third-place finish at the Tour de France is the Lapierre Aircode SL 500. Made lighter with a reworked carbon lay-up, this race-proven frame is ready to deliver top speed. The Union-Cycliste-Internationale-approved Aircode SL 500 is built up with Shimano 105 drivetrain, direct-mount brakes, Zipp Service Course stem and handlebar and a Mavic Cosmic Elite wheelset. The SRP is $4,100.

Liv Envie Advanced Pro 1 (W) Liv’s Envie Advanced Pro 1 is an all-around race machine designed with and built for female competitors. The frame features aerodynamically optimized tube shapes and advanced carbon lay-ups with geometry developed specifically for women. It comes equipped with Shimano Ultegra Di2 drivetrain, SpeedControl SL brakes with Ti hardware and a Giant SLR 1 Aero/DBL wheel system. The SRP is $5,349.

Devinci Leo SL Ultegra Disc Sleek aesthetics and top performance are achieved with Devinci’s finetuned Leo SL Ultegra Disc. The Dual Core Fusion frame provides a superlight platform that doesn’t compromise comfort for speed, as this vertically compliant bike offers ample stiffness with its BB86 bottom bracket and carbon thru-axle dropouts. The frame is finished with a sharp paint scheme and kitted out with a full Shimano Ultegra 6800 groupset and hydraulic brakes, DT Swiss wheels and an Easton cockpit. The SRP is $3,999.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

COMPETITION $3,000-$6,000

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Merkcx Mourenx69 Carbon Inspired by Eddy Merkcx’s victory on the seventh stage of the 1969 Tour de France, the Mourenx69 is a Merkcx-brand take on the modern Endurance bike. Build for long distances, you’ll find a more comfortable fit, improved compliance and tire clearance up to 30c, along with the standard internal cable routing for mechanical or electronic drivetrains and integrated seat clamp. It is outfitted with Shimano Ultegra Di2, Deda stem and handlebar and Fulcrum Racing 5 LG wheels. The SRP is $5,200.

Ridley Helium CR40 Road Ridley’s Helium CR40 Road is a high-performing high-modulus carbon frame with a mixed Shimano Ultegra group at a great value. Designed and tested in Belgium, the frame and 4ZA components have proven durable enough for the cobbles, while remaining light and nimble uphill. This ride features Ultegra 6800 derailleurs and shifters with a Shimano compact crankset, a Mavic Ksyrium Elite wheelset with 25mm Yksion Pro tires and Ridley’s own 4ZA cockpit. The SRP is $3,500.

Apogee Corsa Canadian brand Apogee is now introducing bikes with the competition-level Corsa road model with the opportunity to customize your order directly with wheel, stem and handlebar options. This monocoque high-modulus carbon frame touts excellent stiffness to weight in a race geometry, semi-aero tube profiles and Di2 compatibility. The base model comes equipped with Shimano Ultegra group, Shimano Ultegra wheels and FSA cockpit. The SRP is $4,995.

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COMPETITION $3,000-$6,000

Kuota Kougar The Kuota Kougar is a new model to the brand, aiming for the aero market without straying from tradition. Three components specs are offered on the same high-modulus carbon frame that features varying carbon lay-ups based on size and designed around true race geometry. Available in four colours, the build is offered with Shimano 105, Ultegra, Ultegra Di2 and finished with American Classic Victory 30 wheels and a Ritchey Pro cockpit. The SRP starts at $3,999.

BMC Teammachine SLR02 Ultegra Designed for the demands of WorldTour racing and input from the likes of Philippe Gilbert and Cadel Evans, the BMC Teammachine SLR02 is light enough for the longest climbs and stiff enough for all-out sprints. BMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design process is aided by unique computer software called ACE (Accelerated Composites Evolution) that allows the Swiss manufacturer to simulate and test thousands of potential material lay-ups, yielding an optimally balanced ride quality. The bike is completed with a full Shimano Ultegra group, Shimano RS21 wheelset and BMC cockpit. The SRP is $4,599.

Look 765 Pro Team Ultegra Di2 The Look 765 Pro Team Ultegra Di2 is a new Endurance redesign of the 695, featuring some new technology that includes a Carboflax (carbon and flax fibre) frame. The inclusion of flax fibres in the fork and chainstays help to absorb vibration, which complements the comfortable Endurance geometry. It comes built with a Shimano UItegra 6870 Di2 drivetrain, Mavic Aksium wheels and FSA cockpit. The SRP is $4,999.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

COMPETITION UNDER $3,000

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Bombtrack Tempest Looking for a road bike that’s a little more classic? Consider the Bombtrack Tempest. Made of Reynolds 725 steel tubing, this is a bike that looks and feels much like bikes did before the days of carbon and aluminum, while maintaining a modern geometry for sharp and confident handling. Available in both turquoise and gray colourways, the bike is finished with a Shimano 105 11-speed groupset, Mavic Kyrium Equipe wheels and Deda cockpit. The SRP is $2,749.

Felt F4 The Felt F4 is right for the cyclist looking for a win, whether it’s a personal best or a sprint to the line. Felt’s Ultra Hybrid Carbon Performance frame is more durable than aluminum or steel, at a fraction of the weight. It comes equipped with a combined Shimano 105 and Ultegra group, FSA crankset and Shimano RS010 wheels. The SRP is $2,699.

Kona Roadhouse Kona has been doing great work with steel for a long time, and the Roadhouse is a perfect example. A Reynolds 853 frame offers a stiff, compliant ride while remaining light and nimble. Featuring a carbon fork and thru-axle dropouts front and rear, this is a classic road bike built to the best of modern standards. It is finished with a mixed Shimano 105 and Ultegra drivetrain, Shimano 105 hydraulic flat-mount brakes and a Novatech Road 30 Disc wheelset. The SRP is $2,999.

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COMPETITION UNDER $3,000

Jamis Icon Race Light, fast and incredibly responsive, Jamis’ Icon Race was designed with one thing in mind: speed. Taking cues from its top-tier carbon platform, the Icon Race is every bit as nimble without the added price tag. The alloy frame is mated with an all-carbon tapered fork that is as stiff as it is light. It is spec’d with Shimano Tiagra 4700 10-speed gearing, a BB30 with FSA crankset and Alex rims laced to Formula hubs. The SRP is $2,056.

Fuji Roubaix 1.3 C A capable entry-level race bike, the Fuji Roubaix 1.3 C is deceptively performance-driven. The alloy frame and full-carbon fork with tapered steerer tube provide fast, confident handling. Internal cable routing gives this bike clean, smooth lines. It comes kitted out with Oval Concepts wheels, crankset and cockpit, and is finished with a Shimano 105 11-speed gear system. The SRP is $1,900.

Ridley Liz CR50 (W) Carbon race bike, Endurance road bike – it’s the best of both worlds. The Ridley Liz CR50 is an uncompromising gateway carbon model designed for women. Frame features aim to please those looking for speed with its unidirectional high-modulus carbon fibre and for comfort by way of its flattened chainstays that soak up vibration and chatter, in a package shaped to fit the female form and provide confidence and control. Its component build includes a Shimano 105 drivetrain, Ridley’s 4ZA cockpit and Mavic Aksium wheelset. The SRP is $2,450.

Minelli Milano 650C The Minelli Milano 650c is a great first road bike for youth who want to join their parents on longer rides or to make their first strides in junior racing. This 39cm alloy frame is built up with a Shimano 2x7 drivetrain and STI shifters, Tektro dual-pivot brakes and Alex rims. The SRP is $679.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

Endurance Over $6,000

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Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL4 Disc Born from the cobbles, the S-Works Roubaix has been quoted as the gold standard of Endurance race bikes. Built with Specialized’s highest grade S-Works SL4 FACT 11r carbon, the frame is stiff, compliant, responsive and, thanks to the vibration-dampening Zertz inserts, smooth. The tall, tapered headtube and low bottom bracket keep the rider in a comfortable position and instill confidence on descents. It comes equipped with Roval Rapide CLX 40 Disc wheels, 11-speed Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and hydraulic disc brakes. The SRP is $9,999.

Eddy Merckx EM-525 Disc The new EM-525 from Eddy Merckx offers the highest stiffness-to-weight ratio while integrating the right amount of compliance in the frame design. Available in either Endurance or Performance geometry, its Kink compliance seatstays and asymmetric chainstays of the EM-525 provide comfort and clearance for up to 30mm tires. Designed for disc brakes, the internal cable routing and Syntace thru-axles deliver superb stopping power all the time. The SRP is $8,200.

Cervélo C5 Dura-Ace Di2 The inaugural C-series model from Cervélo, the C5, inspires confidence, with the predictability and stability of the Endurance fit. Cervélo engineers dialed in weight-savings, aerodynamics, stiffness and compliance by using Squoval tube shapes, which combine the desirable structures of squares and ovals into one. Longer chainstays, a downtube rockguard and an all-new Project California fork make up the 850g frame. It comes complete with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and hydraulic disc brakes. The SRP is $9,500.

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Endurance Over $6,000

Colnago CX Zero Disc Ultegra Di2 The CX Zero Disc has been developed by Colnago to meet the largest range of cycling’s conditions. Balancing performance and comfort, the “classic” geometry of the CX Zero allows for a more relaxed position on the bike, resulting in less fatigue. The narrow seatstays and sweeping chainstays absorb impacts and vibrations from the road, while the disc brakes provide excellent braking performance throughout all conditions. It also has Shimano Ultegra Di2. The SRP is $6,999.

Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Dura-Ace Combining race-day performance with all-day rideability, the Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod can crush gravel, gran fondos and everything in between. The proprietary BallisTec carbon construction and race-oriented SPEED SAVE features emphasize torsional rigidity and deliver better acceleration and improved cornering speed. It comes complete with Cannondale’s HollowGram crank, Shimano Dura-Ace drivetrain and Mavic wheels. The SRP is $7,460.

Trek Domane 6.2 Disc Using Trek’s 600 series OCLV carbon and Endurance geometry, the Domane 6.2 Disc is ready to tackle gravel roads or simply to maintain comfort all day in the saddle. Featuring the IsoSpeed decoupler and IsoSpeed fork, the Domane can absorb vibrations and bumps from all kinds of terrain. Vanishing fender mounts, thru-axles and post-mount hydraulic-disc brakes come stock on the Domane 6.2 Disc, along with a full Shimano Ultegra drivetrain and Bontrager Affinity Comp Tubeless Ready wheels. The SRP is $6,499.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

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Endurance Over $6,000

Norco Valence SL Disc A member of Norco’s Endurance family, the Valence delivers long-distance comfort and performance. The integrated ARC Endurance system supplies vibration dampening, while the Power Chassis platform generates all the rider’s power from the pedals to the road. The Size Scaled Tubing ensures consistent characteristics for every size and model. It is outfitted with full Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and hydraulic disc brakes. The SRP is $9,999.

BMC Granfondo GF01 Disc Ultegra Di2 The Granfondo GF01 Disc from BMC offers ergonomic geometry, high vertical compliance and stable handling. Using BMC’s Tuned Compliance Concept, the frame is stiff where it’s needed and compliant where dampening properties are desired. The direct-mount disc brakes offer better braking power and modulation, while Shimano’s Ultegra Di2 drivetrain keep shifting quick and precise. The SRP is $6,599.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

Endurance $3,000-$6,000

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Opus Allegro 1.0 Opus Allegro 1.0â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full-carbon frame with thru-axle disc brakes and a superlight pair of wheels add up to a comfortable ride. Progressive geometry for a great fit, wider tires and a unique ergonomic handlebar also enhance this bikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability for comfort and performance. A Shimano Ultegra 11-speed gruppo has this bike coming in at less than 18 pounds and looking sharp in complete black. It comes in sizes XS, S, M, L and XL. The SRP is $3,399.

Felt Z3 Disc The Felt Z3 is an advanced UHFC carbon-fibre Endurance road frame with hydraulic disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra 11-speed with a DT Swiss R23 wheelset, and BB30 and carbon dropouts. Less than 18 pounds and in black-matte carbon, this bike easily soaks up spring roads full of bumps and potholes. It comes in sizes 51, 54, 56, 58 and 61. The SRP is $3,999.

Kuota Kyron A carbon-fibre monocoque frame with a bladed aero seatpost, the Kuota Kyron has great lines for road and time-trial disciplines. That seatpost is versatile, as it can house a Di2 cigar-shaped battery and be reversed for a more upfront time-trial position. Dressed in Mavic Cosmic Elite wheels and Shimano Ultegra 11-speed, the bike is a perfect start for the serious cyclist. Sizes range from XXS to XXL. The SRP is $2,999.

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Endurance $3,000-$6,000

Ridley Fenix SL30 The Ridley Fenix SL30 is a light, stiff high-modulus carbon-fibre frameset with Shimano Ultegra 11-speed and Fulcrum Racing 5 wheelset aboard. With a multi-hexagonal shaping of the top- and downtubes, the torsional rigidity of the frame is superior. Built for a multi-surface ride adventure, the Fenix carries a five-year manufacturer’s warranty on the frame – a frame that comes in at 8,240g. The sizes include XXS to XL. The SRP is $4,850.

Lapierre Pulsium 600 FDJ Equipped with Shock Absorption technology, the Lapierre Pulsium 600 FDJ carbon frame is the FBJ’s team standard for long road races and Classics. A sharp-looking machine dressed in Shimano Ultegra 11-speed with Mavic Aksium wheels and Zipp bar and stem, this ride offers up incredible vertical flexibility with lateral rigidity. It comes in sizes XS, S, M, L and XL. The SRP is $4,100.

Scott Contessa Solace 15 (W) Designed with women-specific geometry for a comfort/performance balance like no other, the Scott Contessa Solace 15 frameset is made of HMF/ IMP carbon with a SDS shock-dampening system and comfort geometry that assist with Scott’s trademark stiff qualities. Spec’d with full Shimano Ultegra and a Syncros cockpit, the weight is an impressive 16 pounds. It comes in sizes XXS, XS, S, M and L. The SRP is $3,899.

Liv Avail Advanced SL Initially born from Giant and created for women, the Liv line is now its own separate entity. This new ride is handcrafted with premier composite technology and engineered specifically for serious female bike riders. Disc brake technology, integrated D-fuse seatpost, OverDrive 2 steerer tube and Powercore BB all enhance this Advanced SL-grade composite with Di2 Shimano 11-speed groupset. It comes in a fancy composite red, blue and black paint scheme in sizes XS, S and M. The SRP is $5,799.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

Endurance under $3,000

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Marin Argenta Elite The Marin Argenta Elite frame is formed from 6061-T6 heat-treated aluminum alloy for maximum strength and minimal weight, and features a carbon-blade fork, a longer wheelbase, shorter cockpit and more relaxed headtube angle for greater comfort and stability. Shimano Tiagra shifters and derailleurs handle drive duties, while an FSA Gossamer compact crank, double-wall, aero-profile rims and folding-bead Schwalbe 25c tires help complete the lightweight package. The SRP is $1,371.

Raleigh Merit 3 The Raleigh Merit 3 offers a lightweight alloy frame with Custom Carbon to Alloy fork with thru-axles and clearance up to 32mm. An anti-shock stem and seatpost smooth your ride, while a Shimano 105 drivetrain eases your shifts. Components include a Raleigh 200 Series Aero handlebar, TRP Spyre C dual-actuated mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors, Formula Alloy Disc hubs, Weinmann XC180 double-wall rims and Kenda Kwick Roller Sport 700x28c tires. The SRP is $1,600.

Kona Esatto DDL The Kona Esatto DDL is highlighted by Kona Endurance geometry and features a Kona SuperLight 7046 aluminum butted alloy frame and carbon fork with ample tire and fender clearance. Slacker angles, lower BB and longer chainstays and wheelbase provide stability, and 15x100mm front and 12x142mm rear thru-axle add stiffness to the Novatec Road 30 Disc wheels, with Continental Gran Sport Race 700x28c tires. A Shimano 105/Ultegra drivetrain ensures durability and smooth shifting. The SRP is $2,699.

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EnDURAnCE UnDER $3,000

Scott Speedster 30 Disc The Scott Speedster 30 Disc features shape-optimized double-butted 6061 alloy tubing, an Aero carbon fork and a race-proven geometry that provides an aerodynamic advantage and outstanding performance. It is also now equipped with Shimano disc brakes for optimized braking in even the wettest of weather conditions. The Speedsters spec sheet boasts a Shimano Tiagra drivetrain with Syncros components throughout and a set of Formula Team Disc 28 H hubs front and rear. The SRP is $1,549.

KHS Flite 700 The Flite 700 is an entry-level ride from the KHS Performance line of road bikes that features a full-MSD-carbon monocoque frame with replaceable derailleur hanger and KHS Performance full-carbon fork. Shimano Tiagra fills in a good portion of the Flite 700 drivetrain, with Q2 specâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d out in the rims, spokes, front and rear hubs and seatpost. KHS has even thrown some Maxxis Columbiere 700x25c, 120tpi folding tires on the Flite 700 to add to its legendary performance. The SRP is $2,479.

Miele Svelto RS Inspired by its Italian roots, Mieleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affordable Svelte RS Endurance road bike offers a 6061 alloy butted frame with carbon fork and a Shimano Sora drivetrain to keep your ride smooth. The Svelte RS also features a Prowheel OUNCE alloy 50/34T crankset, Promax RC-462 brakes, Alloy Super Sealed QR 32H hubs and a set of Kenda K-152 700x25c tires on Miele Race Lite Profiled rims. The SRP is $999.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

Endurance under $3,000

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Louis Garneau Gennix E1 Elite (W) Developed for serious riders who strive to ride longer and faster, the Louis Garneau Gennix E1 Elite features a RTCC1 carbon, no-void monocoque-technology frame and Garneau full-carbon fork. Shimano fills the spec sheet with an Ultegra 6800 drivetrain and brakes and Shimano RS010 front and rear wheels. The integrated headset is an FSA Orbit C-33 and the bottom bracket a Shimano BB72. A longer wheelbase adds stability and fluidity for greater control and comfort. The SRP is $2,999.

Devinci Leo Tiagra Devinciâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Leo series with Dual Core Fusion frame technology seamlessly fuses two frame cores for a trifecta of speed, stability and intuitive performance. Architecture includes a lightweight fork, carbon dropouts, acceleration-juiced BB86 bottom bracket, internal cable routing, integrated brakes and a sleek carbon frame and fork. Tech specs include a Shimano Tiagra drivetrain, Tektro Quarze brakes, V2 Pro components and Schwalbe Lugano 700x23c tires. The SRP is $1,899.

Brodie Tiber The Brodie Tiber is race-bred geometry in an all-season, all-roads platform. With clearance for fenders and wider tires, you can conquer a Pacific Northwest winter or ride an Ontario Spring Classic. Tiber offers a 4130 cromo butted frame and Aprebic carbon fork built up with a Shimano 105 groupset and Hayes CX Pro Disc brakes. Alex CXD5 hubs and rims roll with a set of Clement Strada LGG 28c tires. The SRP is $2,399.

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Gravel

Opus Spark 1.0 Opus Spark aluminum gravel adventure bikes are designed to take you any place you want to explore. Carbon forks, disc brakes and generous tire clearance deliver comfort and control in all conditions. As well, the Spark’s lower BB and longer stays give you greater stability when the pavement ends and the fun begins. The Opus Spark 1.0 is equipped with a complete Shimano 105 11-speed gruppo, HY/RD hydraulic disc brakes and tubeless-ready wheels. The SRP is $1,899.

Marin 2016 Gestalt 3 The all-new Marin Gestalt 3 is ready to take you beyond the road. The premium Series 4 triple-butted aluminum frame is equipped with a 142x12mm rear thru-axle and an innovative NavIt carbon fork. A SRAM Rival 1 drivetrain effectively transmits your power to the rear wheel, while Rival hydraulic disc brakes instill confidence on the steepest descents in all conditions. Integrated mounts make it easy to bolt on a rack and fenders for commuting or light touring. The SRP is $2,705.

Cannondale Slate Ultegra Any road – anywhere. The Cannondale Slate is designed for roadies looking for a new thrill or MTB’ers or action-sports enthusiasts looking for a looser, more open definition of “road riding.” The Slate riding position balances racy efficiency with upright control and comfort. The frame is SmartFormed 6069 alloy that is Di2-ready with the Cannondale Lefty Oliver Carbon fork that is smoother and more compliant for rougher roads and longer days in the saddle. The SRP is $4,480.

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Raleigh Clubman Disc The Raleigh Clubman is ready to go out of the box, whether planning a fun day in the saddle or commuting to work on a drizzly morning. The custom-painted matching fenders and Shimano disc brakes add a touch of class to this 4130 butted chromoly road bike that features a Shimano Tiagra 10-speed STI drivetrain, Shimano BR-R317 mechanical road disc brakes, Raleigh seat and stem, Weinmann XC180 double-wall disc rims, Kenda Karvs 700x28c and 60 tpi wire-bead tires. The SRP is $1,300.

Giant Anyroad CoMax With its lightweight, smooth-riding, composite frame and quick yet comfortable drop-bar positioning, Giantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anyroad CoMax can go from pavement to gravel or dirt without missing a beat. The taller headtube and increased standover height give it stable, confident handling, while the wide range of gears, ergo-shaped handlebars and user-friendly disc brakes put you in total control. And the puncture-resistant 32c tires encourage you to explore paved or unpaved roads and paths. The SRP is $2,029.

Brodie Monster 1.0 The adaptable Monster 1.0 features a 4130 butted chromoly Sport frame with Gator Blade 2.0 fork. Shimano makes an appearance in the form of Tiagra in a front and rear derailleur, cranks and shifters. The Purple-Princecoloured Monster 1.0 also features Hayes CX5 expert brakes, a Brodie 27.5 seatpost and 31.8 bar and WTB Deva Comp saddle. The Monster 1.0 rolls on a set of Sun Inferno 23 rims laced up with WTB Nanoraptor tires. It comes in sizes 46, 50 and 55. The SRP is $1,799.

Jamis Renegade Exploit This frame is built to handle on- and off-road conditions without compromising a comfortable ride. Each Jamis Adventure Reynolds 631 double-butted SST chromoly frame has size-specific tubing that optimizes ride quality and assures the lightest possible weight for each frame size. A full Shimano 105 drivetrain, Center Lock Ice Tech rotors and TRP HYRD hydraulic disc brakes round out a complete gravel-adventure bike package. The SRP is $3,018.

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CYCLOCROSS

Ridley X-Trail CR50 The Ridley X-Trail CR50 is a real can-do-it-all bike with a race geometry that allows you to speed up very quickly and disc-brake wheels with thru-axle that can make you stop-stable in the blink of an eye. Loads of tire clearance allow for 38mm tires, adding much extra comfort to your already-enjoyable ride. Why have three different bikes hanging in your garage when you can have an X-Trail CR50? The SRP is $3,500.

Cube Cross Race Pro The heart of the Cube Cross Race Pro is a torsionally stiff, double-butted Superlite Advanced 6061 aluminium frame that is heat-treated with mechanically formed tubes, cold-forged 3D dropouts and a tapered headtube. The race-ready geometry provides a perfectly balanced ride position due to the Shimano 105 groupset and brand-new BR-RS785 hydraulic disc brakes that betray this bikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ambitions. The SRP is $1,999.

Kona Jake the Snake CR The Jake the Snake CR is the most affordable carbon cyclocross bike Kona has ever made, with all the power, speed and unadulterated fun of its Major Jake, but with a component package that makes this bike available to even the most budget-conscious cyclist. It features a quick-as-lightning and light-as-a-feather Kona Carbon Race monocoque frame and tapered monocoque Kona Carbon Race CX fork, both with hidden fender eyelets, has internal cable routing, Di2 options and a PF30 bottom bracket. The SRP is $2,999.

Trek Boone 5 Disc The Boone 5 is Trekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest, smoothest and lightest cyclocross bike. Made from 600 series OCLV carbon and equipped with IsoSpeed, it has an engineered decoupler that allows the seat-tube to rotate independently from the toptube-to-seatstay junction, which increases vertical compliance without compromising pedaling efficiency. The Boone 5 is equipped with RS685 hydraulic disc brakes and an 11-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain. The SRP is $4,099.

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Felt F1X Cx1 The top-of-the-line F1X Cx1 uses Feltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UHC Advanced + TeXtreme frame technology to create a lightweight machine to be thrown over your shoulder as you scale the stairs. Internal cable routing keeps the mud out, and SRAM Force Cx1 ensures both rapid shifting and immediate braking power. This bike was born to carve through the sandpits and bunny-hop the barriers. The SRP is $6,299.

Louis Garneau Steeple-XC Elite CX-1 Nimble and smooth over the rough stuff, the Louis Garneau Steeple-XC Elite delivers uncompromised geometry with a short front center of gravity that provides amazing handling and a 66mm BB drop that allows for added stability in fast descents. The frame is RTCC1 carbon that employs no-void monocoque technology. Its inner cable routing is perfect for shouldering sections, while the SRAM Force CX1 provides excellent shifting and stopping performance in all conditions. The SRP is $4,749.

Specialized S-Works CruX With multiple Cyclocross World Championships to its name, the CruX has more than proven itself in the discipline of cyclocross. The Specialized S-Works CruX is the ultimate â&#x20AC;&#x2122;cross weapon and features the top-of-theline S-Works FACT 11r carbon frame, the stopping power of Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and a Dura-Ace drivetrain. It has SWAT Box compatibility with a third bottle-mount on the downtube for water or a tool keg for hard training days. The SRP is $8,999.

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TRIATHLON

Scott Plasma Premium The Scott Plasma Premium debuted at the Ironman World Championships a year and a half ago, courtesy of a victory by Germany’s Sebastian Keinle. The full integration of the fork, headtube, front waterbottle and handlebars have all been molded and shaped for maximum aerodynamic gain at a critical point. Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 throughout, it rolls on Zipp’s top-of-the-line Firecrest CC wheels 404/808 front and back. The SRP is $15,599.

Specialized Shiv Pro Race The Specialized Shiv Race has been designed with input from top Pros and Ironman winners with the sole intention of making you faster. A key feature is the fully integrated Fuelselage Hydration System. Depending on the length of the race, you may not need extra bottles. It comes fully equipped with a mixture of Shimano and Specialized components, making it raceready right out of the box. The SRP is $7,079.

Kuota Kalibur The Kuota Kalibur has been completely redesigned for 2016 with input from top Professional triathletes and cyclists in cooperation with Kuota’s own engineers and designers. Key features beyond the stealth-like carbon and monocoque aero race-geometry frame are completely hidden front and rear brakes, internal cable routing, a hidden seatpost clamp and Di2 compatibility. Another strong advantage is the built-in adjustability of Kuota’s aero 2way seatpost with inclination options of 74° to 80°, offering a wide range of positioning. The Kalibur kicks some serious butt, and is available with various gruppos starting with Shimano 105 including Ultegra, Dura-Ace and Di2. The SRP is $5,499. 76 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

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Cervelo P3 Ultegra Di2 Years ago, the legendary Cervelo P3 set the bar very high in terms of aerodynamics. The current iteration kitted out with Shimano Ultegra Di2 with some trickle-down aero tricks has benefited nicely from its big brother. The P3 delivers “speed within reach” of the average triathlete, and for the traveling triathlete, it is easily taken apart and put back together. The SRP is $6,300.

Felt IA2 The Felt IA2 screams, “FAST.” Nothing will hold you back on this wind-tunnel-proven frame made with Felt’s UCH Advanced carbon fibre that delivers an extraordinary level of stiffness and aerodynamics, all in a very light package. Equipped with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 components and deep Novatec 50mm/90mm carbon wheels, this ride is ready to race. The SRP is $11,199.

Devinci Leo T2 The state-of-the-art Devinci Leo T2 frame is about cheating the wind with fully integrated front brakes and rear brakes completely hidden behind the BB. The integration of the fork and stem is smooth and aero, presenting a frame that is a work of art and will not hold you back in any way. If you are building up a bike a la carte, the Devinci Leo T2 is a great place to start. The SRP is $2,599 (frameset).

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TRACK

Eddy Merckx Copenhagen77 Alloy The Copenhagen77 from Eddy Merckx is an ultra-stiff, double-butted 6061 aluminum frame with a carbon fork and aero tubing. Built to deliver great results on the track, the Copenhagen77 has the stripe of the famous Molteni orange, paying homage to Merckx himself. The SRP is $1,550.

Look CR 564P Designed for all track disciplines, the Look CR 564P is a light, aerodynamic and rigid carbon-fibre frame. Inspired by the World Champion L96 geometry, the oversized aerodynamic tubing complies with Union Cycliste Internationale regulations, while providing quick accelerations and maintaining fast speeds. The SRP is $3,849 (frame).

Marinoni Pista The Marinoni Pista is the essential track bike. The frame is made with Columbus ZONA Megatube steel and paired with a Cadence PA1 carbon fork. The Pista is very versatile and entirely repairable, offering the athlete the ability to compete in nearly every event. It is available with Miche components. The SRP is $1,725.

Felt TK1 Setting and exceeding the standards of track bikes is the 2016 Felt TK1. Featuring a UHC Advanced carbon frame and UHC Ultimate carbon fork, the aerodynamics of this machine are unquestioned. Complete with Rotor 3D24 cranks, Reynolds carbon wheels and 3T SCATTO LTD carbon bars, the TK1 retails for $5,599.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

TIME TRIAL

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BMC Timemachine TM02 Ultegra Borrowing design and geometry from its record-setting top-tier model, the Timemachine TM02 from BMC sets up the enthusiast time-trial and triathlon racer on an economical time-trial race bike. Featuring BMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premium Carbon Vmax aero technology, the TM02 is finished with Shimano Ultegra 11-speed groupset, Shimano RS11 wheels and BMC cockpit. The SRP is $3,899.

De Rosa Formula King The 2016 De Rosa Formula King is a Professional-level time-trial bike designed for the elite athlete. The unidirectional monocoque carbon frame is as light as it is stiff, and the seamlessly integrated stem enhances aerodynamic gains. The stock build features a Campagnolo Super Record group with Bora crankset, Campagnolo Bora TT rear wheel and Bora 80 front wheel. The SRP is $9,750 (frameset).

Louis Garneau Gennix TR1 Elite Louis Garneauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gennix TR1 Elite is a well-thought-out triathlon bike featuring integration that improves aerodynamics and fit, and its geometry provides stable handling. The carbon frame, fork and seatpost are finished off with Shimano Ultegra 6800 drivetrain, 3T Accelero 40 Pro wheels and 3T cockpit. The SRP is $4,999.

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URBAN

marin

BUYERS GUIDE 2016

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

performance/hybrid

URBAN Opus Citato 1.0 Opus’ Citato 1.0 is a killer combination of form and function. Featuring a featherlight alloy frame and carbon fork, the Citato 1.0 is kitted out with SRAM’s GX1 1x11 drivetrain and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. This bike is definitely built to perform, while maintaining simplicity in its parts. The SRP is $1,599.

Ghost Panamao X 5 Ghost offers an introductory dual-sport model with the Panamao X 5. Intended for smooth transition from pavement to trail, you’ll find a geometry between Comfort and Performance and short-travel suspension fork featuring a remote lockout on the handlebar. The alloy frame is spec’d with Shimano XT derailleurs and Shimano hydraulic brakes. The SRP is $1,150.

Norco XFR 1 Looking for a mid-range dual-sport crossover hybrid that doesn’t compromise? Check out the Norco XFR 1. The double-butted frame and 75mm travel fork with remote lockout provide performance in a wide range of situations, while the Shimano Deore 3x10 drivetrain and brakeset are always reliable. The SRP is $1,410.

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performance/hybrid

Specialized Sirrus Pro Carbon Disc The Sirrus Pro Carbon Disc is serious about fitness. This full-carbon frame with Zertz inserts is lightweight, responsive and smooths out the ride like you’d expect from a Specialized carbon bike. The geometry is refined for efficiency and comfort, and the bike is spec’d with a Shimano Ultegra 2x11 drivetrain with FSA SLK carbon crankset and Shimano Hydraulic brakes. The SRP is $3,539.

Giant Fastroad SLR 2 The Fastroad SLR 2 is a high-performance flat-bar adventure bike built on Giant’s top-end ALUXX SLR aluminum and composite fork. This platform is lightweight with aerodynamic details, and is suited for rides in and out of the city. The build consists of Shimano Sora nine-speed gearing, Tektro mechanical disc brakes and Giant’s SR2 disc wheels. The SRP is $1,229.

Genesis Trafik 7.0 A gateway performance hybrid ready for all-season activity, the Trafik 7.0 from Genesis Cycle will get you where you’re going. The alloy frame and fork are outfitted with Shimano Alivio gears, Promax mechanical disc brakes, along with a kickstand and suspension seatpost. The SRP is $639.

Kona Dew Deluxe The Dew Deluxe has been a staple in Kona’s hybrid line, and for good reason. This is a bike that’s fun to ride and well-equipped for the money. This model features an alloy frame and fork, Shimano 27-speed gearing with hydraulic disc brakes and WTB wheels mounted with versatile semi-slick tires. The SRP is $849.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

performance/hybrid

URBAN Marin Fairfax SC 6 DLX The Marin Fairfax SC 6 DLX bike comes complete with everything an all-weather commuter could ask for! Start with light alloy frame and fork, add on the fender’s rack and kickstand, get the bike moving with internal gearing and a belt drive, and light the way with a Dynamo front hub. Shimano’s Alfine 11-speed is great for versatility and durability, and the Shimano hydraulic brakes are reliable in any condition. The SRP is $2,874.

Apollo Exceed 30 Pushing toward Performance is the Apollo Exceed 30 hybrid. Here you’ll find a superlight triple-butted alloy frame and carbon fork, both featuring rack and fender mounts. The build is finished with a SRAM 2x10 drivetrain, linear-pull brakes, custom Weinmann wheels and Hutchinson tires. The SRP is $999.

Breezer Downtown EX Breezer’s Downtown EX is as classy as it is practical, making it ideal as a downtown city bike, and the geometry provides a comfortable and nimble ride on 700c wheels. The chromoly is finished with a 1x8 Shimano drivetrain, and the bike comes with fenders and rear rack. The SRP is $739.

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comfort/beach

Manhattan Smoothie The Manhattan Smoothie from KHS is an easy-going comfortable cruiser that provides a very relaxed ride with its seat low to the ground for ease of use. Available in two colours for men and five colours for women, the entry model in the Smoothie line is set up with 26” wheels and a seven-speed gearset. The SRP is $499.

Felt Speedway 2-SP The Felt Speedway 2-SP is a monster cruiser drawing inspiration from classic motorcycles. Sitting on Felt’s Zig Zag 26x4” tires and sporting features such as a sprung saddle, inverted handlebars, matching fenders and twospeed gearing with coaster brake, this is a seriously fun city and boardwalk cruiser! The SRP is $999.

Raleigh Superbe The Raleigh Superbe city bike is full of classic style and practical additions. You’ll find a relaxed and upright geometry, 700c wheels, seven-speed gearing from Shimano with Revo grip-shift, matching fenders, chainguard and rear rack. The SRP is $580.

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comfort/beach

URBAN Garneau Espace RS2 Women Garneau’s Espace RS2 Women’s bike has a sporty side to it with an adjustable stem to help the rider find the fit that’s just right. The aluminum frame is outfitted with 700c wheels, 21-speed Shimano gearing, Louis Garneau Ergo grips and a kickstand. The SRP is $599.

Liv Suede 1 Women Equal parts Comfort bike and fashion accessory, the Liv Suede 1 is a women’s-specific model that looks as great as it rides. The two optional colourways offer a stunning appearance that makes this a true lifestyle bicycle, while the paint-matched front basket, fenders, rear rack and skirtguard are ideal accessories. It is finished with Shimano eight-speed gearing and smooth-rolling 26” wheels. The SRP is $669.

Kona Ute Kona’s Ute is a staple for urban utility and cargo bikes, and for good reason. This bike comes equipped with an extra-long wooden rear big enough to haul kids and with panniers that’ll carry everything else. The kit is completed with Shimano 1x9 gearing and hydraulic disc brakes, fenders and kickstand. The SRP is $1,599.

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comfort/beach

Brodie Quantum Mixte Comfort and style meet adventure with the Brodie Quantum Mixte. With an easy-to-ride upright posture and complemented with a rear rack and fenders, you’ll find this bicycle equipped with front suspension, disc brakes and Shimano 24-speed gearset. The SRP is $799.

Jamis Citizen 3 Femme When it comes to recreational riding, nothing becomes more uncomfortable faster than having to pedal more weight than necessary, which is why the Jamis Citizen 3 Femme is built with lightweight 6061 aluminum tubing. A Shimano group ensures quick and reliable shifts all the time. It comes equipped with the 24-speed Rapidfire shifting drivetrain with Shimano M171 48/38/28 crankset, Acera rear and M191 front derailleurs, as well as an 11-32 cassette that offers a much larger gear range with much lower gearing for easier hill-climbing. The SRP is $877.

Specialized Expedition Specialized’s Expedition is a line of comfort bikes that boasts capability with Ground Control Geometry that keeps the rider’s feet close to the ground. The bike is equipped with 26” wheels, seven-speed gearing, front-suspension fork and an adjustable stem. The SRP is $549.

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BUYERS GUIDE 2016

URBAN

LIFESTYLE/FITNESS

Cube Editor The Cube Editor is an ultralight urban hybrid bike outfitted with a Gates drivebelt, Alfine 11-speed hub gears and Deore disc brakes. Designed with weight in mind, the virtually silent stealthy-looking aluminum frame is the core of a sleek, elegant look that is maintenance-free. A black finish with bright-green decals and cabling will certainly turn heads on the street. Sizes include 46, 50, 54, 58 and 62cm. The SRP is $2,499.

MEC Ace Kids The MEC Ace kids bike is a lightweight (12kg) aluminum bicycle with mechanical disc brakes on 24.2” tires. The Ace is a durable ride equipped with RST suspension forks, Wellgo flat pedals and a mixture of SRAM and Shimano componentry. Sized for youth from eight to 11 years old, or 135150cm in height, the Ace comes in only one size. Adjustments are free at any MEC dealer. The SRP is $450.

Felt Café 24 Deluxe (W) The women’s Felt Café 24 Deluxe Classic has sophisticated styling blended with modern features and technology. The Café 24 is designed to fit your lifestyle, with everything you need to make riding easier and more fun. It features a lightweight aluminum frame, 24 gears, custom rear rack, sturdy kickstand, puncture-resistant tires and comfortable positioning for city cruising or fitness riding, and comes in sizes 16 and 18”. The SRP is $799.

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LIFESTYLE/FITNESS

URBAN

Giant Escape 2 City The Giant Escape 2 City is an ALLUX-grade butted aluminum frame with Shimano 24-speed drivetrain and a Tektro braking system. This is a ride that allows you to get out of the city onto bike paths and roads in comfort. A mix of quality SRAM and Shimano components ensures a trouble-free ride. It comes in sizes XS, S, M, L and XL. The SRP is $699.

Devinci St-Tropez Devinci St-Tropez’s Optimum SO2 aluminum frame and chromoly fork are the choice for a tough light bike with upright geometry. Easy, stable riding is the premise behind this build, courtesy of its comfy seat and adjustable stem. The 700c wheels are powered by 24 speeds (3x8 with 11-to-32 teeth) and the tires have reflective sidewalls for increased safety. Sizes include S, M and L. The SRP is $629.

Cannondale Bad Boy 3 The Cannondale Bad Boy 3 is an aluminum frame dressed in a Shimano Alivio drivetrain with 700c Cannondale C3 Bad Boy wheelset. This ride had been designed for a more aggressive, racier position, but is still upright enough for good visibility and comfort. A stealthy-looking black “barbecue” finish with black componentry enhance the look of this quality ride. Sizes include S, M, L and XL. The SRP is $1,310.

Minelli Silhouette The Minelli Silhouette is a 700c hybrid that sports 21 gears, and has an adjustable aluminum stem and suspension seatpost. Combined with double-density grips and a Velo plush saddle, this bike is perfect for beginner riders on their daily work commute or bike-path venture. Available in women’s sizes 14 and 16”, as well as men’s sizing 16, 18, 20 and 22”. The SRP is $379.

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ELECTRIC

Evo HB1 Disc The Evo HB1 Disc is a 6061 aluminum frame electric bike powered by a BionX 500W motor in the rear hub. The noise and vibration-free motor uses torque-sensing technology to provide four levels of electric assist. The long range lithium-ion battery mounts to the downtube and uses regenerative braking to charge as you ride. Complete with a 3 x 9-speed Shimano drivetrain, Schwalbe tires and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, the Evo HB1 Disc retails for $3,499.

Felt Sport-e 95 The Felt Sport-e 95 gets around town quickly and easily. The 350-watt Bosch Performance eDrive motor is mounted at the bottom bracket of the custom aluminum frame, providing pedal assist directly to the cranks. The Bosch Intuvia Control shows speed, distance and battery life, in addition to controlling one of four assist levels (50, 120, 190 and 275%), or displays riding with the motor off. Complete with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and Deore drivetrain, the Sport-e 95 is available in traditional or stepthrough frames, with optional lights, rack and fenders. The SRP is $4,099.

eVox City420 The eVox City420 is a lightweight, well-balanced electric city bike with such features as DynaMeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 500-watt High Torque motor and a unique stem with integrated display. The City420 FiT design incorporates all electronic components into the frame, keeping it sleek and compact. The mechanical disc brakes also activate a motor kill-switch for added safety. The SRP is $2,599.

Pedego Boomerang The Boomerang from Pedego has a state-of-the-art 500-watt brushless geared motor to deliver best-in-class acceleration and climbing. The ultra-low 9â&#x20AC;? step-through frame makes it very easy to get on and off, and the wide, swept-back handlebars allow for a comfortable, upright riding position. The variable-speed twist throttle gives the rider control of the motor, and SRAM BB7 disc brakes offer reliable stopping power. The SRP is $2,945.

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ELECTRIC

URBAN

Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPA Race 500 27.5 The Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPA Race 500 27.5 is an all-mountain, full-suspension e-bike. The 7005 high-performance aluminum frame is crafted using Cube’s Agile Trail Geometry, and the new Tuned Drive Position integrates the Bosch CX drive unit directly into the frame. The 500Wh battery is mounted to the downtube, and internal cable routing of the dropper seatpost and Shimano XT components keep it clean and sleek. With 140mm Fox Float 34 fork and 190x50mm Fox Float DPS rear suspension, its SRP is $6,999.

Specialized Turbo X The fully integrated Specialized Turbo X is one of the most versatile electric bikes on the market. The 562Wh battery self-locks into the downtube and powers the 250-watt Turbo S Specialized motor in the rear hub. Post Moderne Parallelogram seatpost and RockShox Paragon provide suspension and the 47mm tires deliver stability and traction. The illuminated display and thumb control of the clean-looking Turbo cockpit are easy to use, and regenerative braking extends the Turbo X’s battery life. The SRP is $4,489.

eProdigy Jasper The stylish Jasper from eProdigy is a fully-outfitted step-through aluminum e-bike. The patented coaxial motor is embedded in the bottom bracket via a center-drive design that allows the motor to use the bike’s mechanical gears for greater torque and efficiency, while providing a clean look. Rated 500 watts, the motor can be started through a throttle on the command trigger or through pedaling action, while a pedal-assist feature can be activated by a cadence sensor. The Jasper comes with a long-lasting 37-volt, 11Ah Sony V3 lithium-ion battery pack, front suspension, fenders, disc brakes, Shimano Alivio gears and a pannier rack. The SRP is $3,199.

Belize Baad Rad Fatbike Electric The Baad Rad electric fatbike from Belize makes tackling any terrain fun, thanks to its aluminum frame and 26x4” tires. A 36V-10Ah lithium battery powers the 350-watt motor that provides five levels of pedal assistance or full-motorcycle-style twist throttle. The control panel provides speed and battery-life data, and Tektro disc brakes and Shimano Acera drivetrain complete the bike. The SRP is $1,999.

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FOLDING

Tern Verge S8i Want a folding bike with a belt drive, Shimano internal eight-speed and hydraulic disc brakes? The Tern Verge S8i has you covered. Built around an aluminum frame, this is a folding commuter worthy of all-weather use. It comes with puncture-protected Schwalbe Big Apple tires and full-wrap fenders. The SRP is $2,800.

Brompton M3L Brompton’s M3L with water-resistant C bag is a cleverly designed folding bike that covers all of your commuting needs. Its three-speed internal hub, suspension-equipped frame, ergonomic U-shape handlebar and extremely compact design provide ease of use, while mudguards keep you dry. It is topped off with a Brooks B17 Special saddle. The SRP with C bag is $2,038.

Giant Expressway 1 Fully equipped for urban commuting, the Giant Expressway 1 is a 20”-wheeled aluminum folding bike with rock-solid hinges and practical accessories. The stock model includes fenders, a rear rack with tie-down strap, kickstand, storage bag and a Shimano 1x8 drivetrain. The SRP is $699.

MEC Origami LTD The MEC Origami LTD has everything to love about a folding bike: it stows in the closet, in the back of a micro-car, packs up for the train and fits under your desk at work. Built to make multi-modal commuting easily accessible, the lightweight aluminum frame folds via a durable centre hinge and adjusts to fit riders from 147cm to 188cm (4’10” to 6’2”). The seven-speed gearing accommodates most urban topography. The SRP is $525.

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TANDEM

URBAN KHS Tandemania Milano A great tandem for fast rides with confident stopping power, the Milano from KHS Tandemania is fully geared and ready to tackle rolling roads. The alloy frame is kitted out with a mixed Shimano Sora and Deore drivetrain, Weinmann wheelset and Bengal mechanical disc brakes. The SRP is $2,649.

Santana Sovereign Santana’s Sovereign is a classic high-performance tandem that’s received a new Scandium frame. Lighter and stronger than ever, this bike is based around a Shimano Ultegra 3x10 drivetrain, carbon fork and cockpit and Terry saddles. A wide range of upgrade options is available upon request. The SRP is $5,195.

SINGLESPEED

URBAN

Marinoni Strada Miche The Marinoni Strada Miche brings velodrome style to the street with a classic look and feel. The Columbus Zona Megatube triple-butted steel frame is light and offers exceptional ride quality, while the Miche drivetrain and Ambrosia wheels complement the heritage perfectly. The SRP is $1,750.

Kona Paddy Wagon The Kona Paddy Wagon is a cult-classic downtown speedster you’ll spot everywhere, from Helsinki to Halifax. Featuring a svelte Reynolds 520 frameset with new stubbie handlebars, serendipitous brake levers and fully sealed flip-flop hubs, the Paddy Wagon rides cool, collected and oh-socalm. Available in three different bar versions, the frame is full cromoly featuring 4130 butted cromoly. It comes with Fixie geometry that is highlighted by a slightly higher BB for fixed-gear pedaling clearance and a somewhat longer, lower fit overall. The SRP is $899.

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TOURISME DU QUÃ&#x2030;BEC /Mathieu Dupuis

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Fabulous Cycling Tours Near Montreal Quebec’s Laurentian and Outaouais Regions

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John Symon

The crowd thinned out by about the time I reached the Chutes Wilson, a small park and waterfall just north of Saint-Jerome. A few kilometres away on the west side of the Riviere du Nord valley, there is a busy freeway, strip malls, ski hills and residential development. But the east side of the valley, where the bike path passes, is relatively forgotten by the developers. The sound of the river drowns out noise from the freeway. The bike path turns from asphalt to crushed stone and begins to climb very gradually to 438 metres (1,437 feet) and the scenery becomes wilder. At Kilometre 82, I met Jean-Claude Poirier and Linda Lancup, who run le Voyageur, an 11-room inn in the pretty town of St-Jovite. During a breakfast accompanied by its homemade blueberry-raspberry-strawberry jam, Jean-Claude Poirier spoke of the importance of cyclists to his business. Not only does he serve heartier meals to cyclists, he also has tools and a pump on hand, an arrangement with the shuttle service to receive cyclists’ baggage and can lock up to 20 bikes in his backyard shed. “Bicycle tourism comprises some 20% of my clientele here, even though we are close to a big ski hill (Tremblant) and many festivals. But farther north, the bike path is almost the only tourist draw . . . .” This point was emphasized later that same day, some 60 kilometres farther north at Nominingue (Kilometre 142). I stayed at Auberge Chez Ignace, a five-room B&B run by Ignace Denutte and Yolande Louis, two Belgian ex-patriots. “We didn’t even know the bike path was here when we bought the building in 1996,” explained Denutte as he treated me to some of his Belgian beers. “Today, we couldn’t survive without it; some 90% of our business comes from bike path.” The cycling season is short at Nominingue: June 15 was the first evening warm enough to open up the covered terrace. But Lake Nominingue, a few steps away, was easily warm enough to swim in by mid-June. Late June to early September is the busy season; some hardier cyclists pass through up to mid-October. In the winter months, the bike path here becomes a snowmobile track. Northern sections of the PTdN are largely paved and there TOURISME DU QUÉBEC

uebec’s love affair with cycling is renowned, and Pedal was stoked to check out the fabulous Laurentian and Outaouais regions near Montreal, with a starting point that included the fabled P’tit Train du Nord (PTdN) bike path just north of the city in Saint-Jerome. Across Quebec, there are some 500 inns, hotels and campgrounds that have earned Bienvenue cyclistes accreditation, meaning these places are recognized by Vélo Québec as catering to cyclists. My recent cycling expedition took in some of these inns for a firsthand look at what they have to offer that helps to make the province a mecca for cycling. Most of the bicycle-friendly accommodation is skewed toward budget travel, with 100 campsites included in the bunch. A standout within the Bienvenue cyclistes network and our last stop on our journey was the Fairmont Le Château Montebello, a five-star, 211-room hotel nestled in the Outaouais region between Montreal and Ottawa. But more on that later . . . . To explore the Bienvenue cyclistes network, Pedal asked me to visit some of the smaller inns along the extraordinary PTdN bike path. This 200-kilometre bike path follows the bed of a former train line through the Laurentian Tourist Region, largely avoiding roads and steep hills. The scenery consists of forested rolling hills, lakes, waterfalls, villages and ski cottages. Opened in 1994, the PTdN saw 700,000 cyclists in 2014, some of them coming from Australia, Germany, China and Mexico. In addition to the cyclists, another 400,000 pedestrians used parts of the PTdN in 2014. But the most remarkable thing about the PTdN is the degree to which local tourism has developed in symbiosis with the bike path. Could this be a model for cycle tourism elsewhere? Former train stations are found approximately every 10 kilometres along the busy southern portions of the PTdN; most have been converted into bike stops, cafés, tourist information shops and small museums. Directions to nearby attractions popular with cyclists, such as bike shops and ice cream stands, are signposted.

by John Symon

(opposite) The European-style streets of Tremblant are filled with restaurants and boutiques. (top) A typical road crossing along the P’tit Train du Nord bike path (above) The rustic but luxurious Fairmount Chateau Montabello hotel, originally founded in 1930 as a private club, has hosted royalty, celebrities and political figures over the years.

ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 95

John Symon

My driver, Martin, called me from his cellphone when he was 15 minutes away from the hotel. A former trucker, Martin has been working for Autobus PTdN for approximately two years. I was the only passenger southbound (left) Located between the that day, but he had just delivered a full vanLaurentian mountains and the Rouge River, the restored load of northbound passengers and their bikes Labelle train station houses a to Mount Laurier, the northern terminus of the restaurant, inn and bar. PTdN. “About 95% of people using this service start in north and ride south,” explained Martin. “Apart from downhill gradient, it makes more sense to ride PTdN from north to south. Most cyclists start at Mount Laurier and ride the full 200 kilometres back to Saint-Jerome.” His boss, Maxime Raymond, told me more about the company: “My father started this service in 2000 with one pickup truck. Now, we have four minivans pulling trailers and can accommodate up to 85 cyclists a day.” Those four minivans ferry passengers from Saint-Jerome to Mount Laurier and back. Sometimes they also come into Montreal to pick up passengers. Raymond also runs a small bike shop out of a train car parked at Kilometre Zero, where he offers quick on-the-spot bike repairs, bike rentals and sells accessories (pumps, inner tubes, water bottles, lights, etc.) that many cyclists find useful on the trip. He does not see himself in competition with established bike shops in Saint-Jerome and refers customers to them for more complicated repairs.

John Symon

(above) Built in 1904, the Chemin du Pont-Couvert spans the Macaza River.

are fewer hills; sometimes the path goes for many kilometres in a straight line through boreal forest. You should probably bring food, water, tools, a spare inner tube and insect spray for these often-lonely sections. From Nominingue, I headed south again, staying at la Porte Rouge in Tremblant village, a three-star hotel that is also part of the Bienvenue cyclistes network. The hotel is situated just above the public beach on Lac Mercier, where I enjoyed both swimming and paddling a kayak from the hotel. The dining room looks nice in the brochures, but, unfortunately, the kitchen was not open when I stayed here; there are other restaurants nearby. It was raining the next day and, feeling lazy, I arranged a ride with Autobus PTdN, perhaps the crown jewel of tourist facilities along the bike path. 96 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

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Autobus PTdN could be thought of as a “sweep vehicle” there in case of any injuries, bad weather or mechanical problems. It works in partnership with some 16 inns, hotels and B&Bs in the Laurentians (including the three mentioned above), offering the luggage-transportation service. They also offer various package deals with accommodation partners. On quiet days, Autobus PTdN can be a good place to get tourist information about the bike path; otherwise, contact the tourist office. My next stop was the historic Château Montebello, which opened in 1930, and is reputedly the world’s largest log structure, made from 10,000 red-cedar logs. Sitting on an expansive site that overlooks the Ottawa River, the hotel has welcomed many well-known heads-of-state over past decades. There is golf, a spa, boat rentals, hiking and many other activities offered. Hotel staff parked my bike safely in an outbuilding. The Chantignoles dining room with its smartcasual dress code specializes in French cuisine. I enjoyed Arctic char with soft-shell crab, while my

girlfriend (who drove from Montreal to join me) was happy with the wild-mushroom roasted beef. There is also a vegan menu. The following morning, we fortified ourselves at a chocolate shop in the nearby village before I began the final leg of the journey back to Montreal. As I rode back to the city, it dawned on me that Château Montebello presents an excellent cycling destination for a fun upscale excursion within a half-day’s ride of either Ottawa or Montreal. Much of Quebec Highway 148 is designated as a bicycle route (Route verte), as is Highway 344. Montreal riders also have the option of taking the AMT commuter train to either Vaudreuil or Deux Montagnes to shorten the trip a little. Epilogue: The PTdN path is part of the 17,000-kilometre Trans-Canada Trail and part of Quebec’s Route verte, a 5,358-kilometre network of bike paths across “la Belle Province.” The Route verte was described in 2007 by the National Geographic Society as “the world’s best cycling path.” While

the legendary pathway is under pressure due to potential government-program cuts, the route is still quite intact and is well worth the experience.

JUST THE FACTS Auberge Chez Ignace - 1-877-278-0677, www.ignace.qc.ca Auberge la Porte Rouge - 1-800-665-3505, www.aubergelaporterouge.com Auberge le Voyageur B&B - 1-800-2057173, www.bbvoyageur.com Le Château Montebello - 1-866-540-4462, www.fairmont.com/montebello Autobus PTdN - 1-888-893-8356, www. autobuslepetittraindunord.com Laurentian Tourism - 1-800-561-NORD (6673), www.laurentides.com Outaouais Tourism - 1-800-265-7822, www. tourismeoutaouais.com

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Protecting Your Head ROAD

Garneau hÉros MIPS RTR The Garneau Héros helmet perfectly balances ventilation, light weight and aerodynamics with increased safety, thanks to the MIPS brain-protection system. With Super MSB technology, ring-shaped plastic protection at the base of the helmet reinforces the perimeter for enhanced protection, while the inner frame solidifies the helmet’s structure and provides excellent ventilation without compromising protection. Quick-drying anti-microbial pads inhibit growth of odor-causing bacteria and strategically located printed reflective ink keeps you safe in low-light conditions. It comes in sizes small, medium and large. $229.99.

Smith Overtake Subdue your competition with the revolutionary Overtake helmet from Smith. Delivering maximum ventilation, superior aerodynamics and improved protection, it is the ultimate racing helmet and a must-have for any cyclist in any event. The AEROCORE construction creates a light helmet that increases airflow and improves temperature regulation. The use of Koroyd and EPS allow for more vents to be placed throughout the helmet without sacrificing protection and comfort. The MIPS system is available in select colours. It comes in sizes small, medium and large. $320; MIPS model, $365.

BollÉ The One With a focus on safety, The One features a Bollé-exclusive SAFETY QR Code and a specially designed Bollé LED. Its Click-to-Fit system ensures a perfect adjustable fit, and its interchangeable winter and summer linings allow for year-round use. Ventilated with a fantastic 31 inlets, this new helmet keeps your sunglasses at the ready in its “Sunglasses Garage,” if you wish to remove them during the race. Complete with a detachable visor for mountain biking, The One offers you everything you need in a cycling helmet. $179.99; Premium model, $230.

98 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

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by Mike Sarnecki

Bicycle helmets are essential to protect your head against injury ... looking cool is optional. MOUNTAIN

Giro Montaro MIPS The Giro Montaro MIPS features excellent ventilation and superior sweat management, with a sleek silhouette that offers more coverage than a traditional cross-country helmet. With impressive cooling power achieved through the Roc Loc Air fit system and hydrophilic, anti-microbial pads, it is equipped with full goggle compatibility and an integrated camera mount. It comes in sizes small, medium and large. $250.

Lazer Revolution The Lazer Revolution helmet is designed with Enduro in mind, providing maximum coverage, light weight and a cooling efficiency that canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be beat via its 23 vents. The Advanced Turnfit System provides a great fit. The adjustable visor allows for easy goggle-parking on the helmet and can be easily converted into a full-face helmet by adding the optional chinguard. Weighing in at only 340g, the Revolution comes in small, medium and large. $239.99. Specialized Ambush The Specialized Ambush has your head covered as its patented Aramid-Reinforced Skeleton provides internal EPS support, while the Energy Optimized Multi-Density EPS construction helps to manage impact energy. Comfort is key, as the Mindset 360 fit system provides a secure, customizable fit with 360Â° tension adjustment, five height positions and an integrated dial for easy, onthe-fly tweaks. Massive vents, internal cross-channels and aligned exhaust ports increase airflow to keep you cool, and the quick-drying liner features a Gutter Action Brow that channels moisture away from eyes. It comes in sizes small, medium and large. $210.

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 99

COMPETITION | by Mike Sarnecki

2016 Cyclocross Worlds

Russ Ellis

Largest Canadian Contingent with 13 Riders

Tony Mayer

100 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

eam Canada wrapped up the UCI World Cyclocross Championships (clockwise from left) Aaron Schooler on his way to 40th in the Elite men’s in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium on 8-lap race. Jan. 30-31, with strong showings from Mical Dyck led the Canadians with the largest Canadian contingent at a 16th in the Elite women’s race Cyclocross (CX) Worlds – 13 riders and Brody Sanderson digs deep representation in all categories. The in the Junior Men’s race surge in numbers can be largely at- (l-r) Brody Sanderson, Quinton Disera, tributed to the newly formed Canadian Gunnar Holmgren at the finish Cyclocross Working Group that is en- Rudy West (l) and Maggie Coles-Lyster deavouring to gain more support for cy- all smiles despite tough conditions. clocross in Canada and to help develop more riders in the sport by giving them experience at the top level in Europe. The successful Worlds was led by top Canadian finisher Mical Dyck, who earned a strong 16th place in the Elite women’s competition, with other solid Canadian rides that included Aaron Schooler’s 40th in the Elite men’s race, Ruby West’s 33rd in the U23 women’s competition, Gunnar Holmgren’s 47th in the junior men’s and Trevor O’Donnell’s 49th in the U23 men’s contest. The endeavour, which included a first-ever Christmas Cyclocross Project encompassing six events (see sidebar), that culminated with the CX Worlds was made possible largely through crowd funding and volunteered time by staff and www.pedalmag.com

Cycling Canada Cycling Canada

Russ Ellis

mechanics. The team had a very cohesive feel and great camaraderie, evident at nightly team dinners courtesy of riders taking turns preparing them.

Elite Women Tough rainy and muddy conditions delivered a thrilling race and a surprise victory by 22-year-old Thalita de Jong (NED), who fought back from a second-row start position and was riding outside the top-20 until the final lap. Canada’s Dyck also battled, trying to move up. Just before hitting the final lap, the four leaders were suddenly joined by De Jong, who succeeded in turning around a deficit of more than 20 seconds in less than two laps. Halfway through the final lap, De Jong took command as she gapped the break and took a well-deserved victory. Caroline Mani (FRA) powered past Sanne Cant (BEL) in the finale to claim the silver medal. Dyck claimed a top-20 finish with her 16th-place result. “My eyes still hurt, there was so much sand. I was aiming for a top-15; would have loved to have bettered last year’s 12th,” tweeted Dyck post-race. “But I’m really happy with the race. Thanks for all the cheers from all over.”

Elite Men With 61 riders from 20 nations, defending champion Mathieu Van der Poel (NED) was a marked man in the eight-lap race. Belgian champion Wout van www.pedalmag.com

Aert and European champion Lars van der Haar (NED) were also top contenders, as the trio set a blistering early pace. Halfway through the race, an incident turned the dynamics around when the lead group had grown to 10 riders. Van der Poel misjudged the first corner of the very difficult off-camber section, hopping off his bike and landing with his foot in Van Aert’s front wheel. While Van der Haar powered away in front, the duo remained, taking 10 seconds to become untangled. Van der Poel struggled to recover while Van Aert fought back from his 10th-place position, eventually catching Van der Haar, who was off the front with two laps to go. Over the steep final climb, Van Aert emerged first, and it was game over as Van der Haar sat up. Kevin Pauwels (BEL) won the battle for third place, finishing just ahead of countryman and cyclocross legend Sven Nys (BEL), who waved to the crowd in his final World Championships race. Schooler was the top Canadian, finishing 40th. Not far behind were Canadians Jeremy Martin in 42nd, Michael van den Ham in 45th, Cameron Jette in 51st and Mark McConnell in 57th. “Really happy with a top-40 result; finishing on the lead lap makes you feel like you’re racing,” said Schooler. “You never know what will happen on race day, and I was with a bunch of guys that I don’t normally finish with, so it felt good.” ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 101

photos: Cycling Canada

Canadian Cyclocross Working Group’s Christmas Cyclocross Project

ulfilling a commitment to introduce developing cyclocross athletes to international competition while providing support to Elite athletes at select international races, Cycling Canada set up the Cyclocross Working Group. Made up of various stakeholders from the Canadian cyclocross community, the new group was driven by the objective to improve communications and planning around the Canadian cyclocross program. The goal was to develop a sustainable program, explore funding opportunities and identify and engage leaders in the Canadian cyclocross community to help drive these initiatives. This past December, seven riders from across Canada took part in an inaugural Christmas Cyclocross Project in Belgium. It encompassed six races over a 10-day period during the Belgian “Kerste-Period” of cyclocross. “Increased exposure to quality racing is an essential step in ensuring our athletes are able to compete with the best in the world. Two of the mandates of the Cyclocross Working Group are to introduce developing athletes to international competition and to provide continued support Dinner time to Elite athletes at select international races; this project represents an important step in realizing those goals,” said Scott Kelly, the National Cyclocross Team program manager. Building upon the success of this project, Cycling Canada was proud to announce that 13 riders would travel to Europe to contest both the final World Cup in Hoogerheide, The Netherlands and the Cyclocross World Championships in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium. This number represented the largest number of athletes Canada has sent to the World Championships since the U.S. hosted the 2013 race in Kentucky. “We accomplished what we set out to do,” said Kelly. “Our Elite riders posted some great results against tough international competition, and there was visible learning and improvement taking place with our U23 and junior athletes.” – Mike Sarnecki Team Canada - 2015/16 Christmas Cyclocross Project Elite Men U23 Men Jeremy Martin (Boischatel, Que.) Isaac Niles (Calgary, Alta.) Elite Women Trevor O’Donnell (Barrie, Ont.) Mical Dyck (Victoria, B.C.) Junior Men Anna Schappert (Winnipeg, Man.) Gunnar Holmgren (Orillia, Ont.) Brody Sanderson (Orillia, Ont.) 2015/2016 Christmas ’Cross Project Race Schedule Dec. 26 - World Cup – Heusden-Zolder, Belgium Dec. 27 - Superprestige – Diegem, Belgium Dec. 29 - BPost Bank Trofee-Azencross – Loenhout, Belgium Dec. 30 - Versluys CX – Bredene, Belgium Jan. 1 - BPost Bank Trofee GP Sven Nys – Baal, Belgium Jan. 3 - Soudal Classics CycloCross – Leuven, Belgium 102 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

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Under 23 Women Ontario’s Ruby West and B.C.’s Maggie Coles-Lyster were stoked to debut for Canada at the inaugural World Championships race in the women’s Under 23 category, held in tough conditions as well. West finished in 33rd overall, which was good for 10th among the junior women, with Coles-Lyster in 41st on the day. Despite the wet and cold, both were all smiles at the finish. Evie Richards (GBR), 18, silver medalist at the Junior Women’s UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Vallnord, Andorra last September, was the surprise winner. Nikola Noskova (CZE) was second and Maud Kaptheijns (NED) won the bronze. Race favourite Femke van den Driessche (BEL), the reigning European U23 champion, suffered mechanical problems and later became embroiled in a major controversy as UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) officials discovered a bicycle containing a hidden electric motor on the CX Worlds site. The bike was reported to belong to Van den Driessche.

Under 23 Men The home crowd had something to celebrate during the second day of the UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships as local star Eli Iserbyt, 18, captured Belgium’s first gold medal after falling short last year in the junior men’s race in Tabor, Czech Republic. Adam Toupalik (CZE) finished just one second behind in second place, as Quinten Hermans (BEL) was third. Canada’s Trevor O’Donnell and Isaac Niles met their goal at their CX Worlds debut as well, with both finishing on the same lap as the leaders in 49th and 51st respectively. Niles, who was further up in the standings, suffered a crash in the wet, muddy conditions and he lost some ground.

Junior Men Jens Dekker (NED) continued his winning ways with a commanding victory in the junior men’s category. The 17-year-old rider was biding his time in the lead group during the opening lap, behind the three French riders who rode in

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front of the pack. Mickael Crispin (FRA) was second, with fellow countryman Thomas Bonnet finishing in third. The Canadian trio of Gunnar Holmgren in 47th, Brody Sanderson in 52nd and Quinton Disera in 62nd finished on the same lap as the leaders. Sanderson was en route to his goal of a top-40 result, but crashed on the last lap, while Disera suffered an early mechanical but recovered. All in all, it was a great showing for Team Canada and superb effort by both athletes and support staff as the focus now turns to the 2017 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships, which will be held in Luxembourg.

2016 Cyclocross Worlds Jan. 30-31, 2016 – Heusden-Zolder, Belgium Elite Men 1. Wout van Aert (BEL) 1:05:52; 2. Lars van der Haar (NED) 0:05; 3. Kevin Pauwels (BEL) 0:35; 4. Sven Nys (BEL) 0:39; 5. Mathieu Van der Poel (NED) 0:47; Canadians 40. Aaron Schooler (CAN) 7:14; 42. Jeremy Martin (CAN) -1 lap; 45. Michael van den Ham (CAN), 51. Cameron Jette (CAN); 57. Mark McConnell (CAN) -3 laps; Elite Women 1. Thalita de Jong (NED) 41:03; 2. Caroline Mani (FRA) 0:14; 3. Sanne Cant (BEL) 0:24; 4. Sophie de Boer (NED) 0:24; 5. Nikki Harris (GBR) 0:32; Canadians 16. Mical Dyck (CAN) 2:30; U23 Men 1. Eli Iserbyt (BEL) 0:51:18; 2. Adam Toupalik (CZE) 0:01; 3. Quinten Hermans (BEL) 0:05; 4. Thijs Aerts (BEL) 0:11; 5. Clement Russo (FRA) 0:12; Canadians 49. Trevor O’Donnell (CAN) 7:16; 51. Isaac Niles (CAN) 7:45; U23 Women 1. Evie Richards (GBR) 41:34; 2. Nikola Noskova (CZE) 0:35; 3. Maud Kaptheijns (NED) 0:47; 4. Sina Frei (SUI) 0:53; 5. Nadja Heigl (AUT) 1:30; Canadians 33. Ruby West (CAN) 7:05; 41. Maggie Coles-Lyster (CAN) 9:41; Junior Men 1. Jens Dekker (NED) 43:05; 2. Mickael Crispin (FRA) 0:35; 3. Thomas Bonnet (FRA) 1:00; 4. Kevin Kuhn (SUI) 1:17; 5. Thomas Pidcock (GBR) 1:22; Canadians 47. Gunnar Holmgren (CAN) 4:29; 52. Brody Sanderson (CAN) 5:25; 62. Quinton Disera (CAN) 8:58.

ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 103

COMPETITION | BY SANDRA WALTER

MTB

Peter Kraiker

Knobby Tire Events Explode Across Canada

jonathon duncan

2016 Canadian MTB Preview

Bike, respectively. The second stop of the downhill series is also in Ontario at a new venue, Blue Mountain. Downhillers contest round #3 on July (above right) Evan McNeely took 16 at Panorama Resort, B.C., while home the Elite men’s XC series title for the first time. cross-country competitors hit up St-Felicien, Que. on July 23, before (far left) Samuel Thibault earned the men’s DH Series title. both disciplines meet for the grand (left) Claire Buchar, now retired, was finale in Whistler, B.C. as part of the women’s DH Series winner. Crankworx on Aug. 12-13. The Canadian XC Championships along with the Eliminator Championships hit up Baie-St-Paul, Que. in the province’s picturesque Charlevoix region on July 14-17, with Sun Peaks Resort in B.C. hosting the Canadian National DH Championships on July 23, while the Canadian XC Marathon Championships will explore the trails and countryside of East Hereford, Que. on July 31. For those who prefer to savour their singletrack, the seven-day BC Bike Race’s 10th edition will take participants to some of B.C.’s top riding destinations from July 6-13. The 2016 event sold out its quota of more than 600 spots in just over four days. It’s a good thing there are more highly acclaimed multiday mountain-biking adventures to be had, such as the aptly named six-day Singletrack 6 that changes up its route through Western Canada. This year, it

ear 2016 is shaping up to be another singletrack-packed year of racing in Canada. Here’s your guide to the event highlights of the season so you don’t miss out on the best mountain-biking competitions in the country. For the first time in nearly two decades, the Canada Cup series will kick off in the West at a fresh venue – the official training centre of the Canadian MTB team at Bear Mountain Resort in Victoria, B.C. on March 5. The event will mark the end of a two-week training camp for the National team, so the start line is guaranteed to be packed with the country’s top talent. More than two months later, the cross-country series will continue at Mont-Tremblant, Que., along with the downhill opener. Then it’s over to Ontario in June for cross-country rounds #3 and #4 at Horseshoe Valley and Hardwood Ski and

Fraser Britton

pasquale stalteri

(above left) Cindy Montambault won her inaugural Elite women’s overall XC crown

2016 Calendar Canada Cup March 5 – Canada Cup XC #1 - Victoria, B.C., www.bearmountain.ca/Events/Canada-Cup-XC May 22-23 – Canada Cup XC #2/DH #1 - Mont-Tremblant, Que., www.velomotion.ca June 5 – Canada Cup XC #3 - Horseshoe Valley, Ont., www.superflyracing.ca June 12 – Canada Cup XC #4 - Hardwood Ski and Bike, Ont., www.pulseracing.ca June 24 – Canada Cup DH #2 - Blue Mountains, Ont., www.bluemountain.ca/eastcoastopen July 16 – Canada Cup DH #3 - Panorama Resort, B.C, www.panoramaresort.com July 23 – Canada Cup XC #5 - St-Felicien, Que., www.velostfelicien.com Aug. 12-13 – Canada Cup XC #6/DH #4 - Whistler, B.C., www.crankworx.com Canadian Championships July 14-17 – Canadian XCE/XCO Championships - Baie-St-Paul, Que., www.velocharlevoix.com July 23 – Canadian DH Championships - Sun Peaks Resort, B.C., www.sunpeaksresort.com July 31 – Canadian XCM Championships - East Hereford, Que., www.festivallezyjeandavignon.com Festivals Aug. 6 – Velirium - Mont-Ste-Anne, Que., www.velirium.com Aug. 12-21 – Crankworx - Whistler, B.C., www.crankworx.com

104 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

Endurance Cross-country April 16 – Orecrusher - Squamish, B.C., www.testofmetal.com April 24 – Paris to Ancaster - Paris-Ancaster, Ont., www.parisancaster.com May 7 – Intense Cycles Epic 8 Hour Relay - Mansfield, Ont., www. chicoracing.com May 7 – Gearjammer - Squamish, B.C., www.testofmetal.com May 14-15 – Salty Dog 6 Hour - Salmon Arm, B.C., www.skookumcycleandski.com May 28 – Nimby Fifty - Pemberton, B.C., www.nimbyfifty.com May 28 – Singletrack Classic - Hardwood Ski and Bike, Ont., www.pulseracing.ca June 18 – Test of Metal p/b Nesters Market - Squamish, B.C., www.testofmetal.com July 23 – Summer Epic 8 Hour Relay - Hardwood Ski and Bike, Ont., www.pulseracing.ca Sept. 17 – Just Another Bike Race - Squamish, B.C., www.testofmetal.com Sept. 24 – Fall Epic 8 Hour Relay - Hardwood Ski and Bike, Ont., www.pulseracing.ca 24-Hour Events June 18-19 – Golden Two-Four – Golden, B.C., www.golden24.ca June 25-26 – 24 Hours of Light - Whitehorse, Yukon, www.24hoursoflight.ca June 25-26 – 24 Hours of Summer Solstice - Albion Hills, Ont., www.chicoracing.com July 16-17 – 24 Hours of Adrenalin - Canmore, Alta., www.24hoursofadrenalin.com www.pedalmag.com

will feature the trails of the Kootenay Rockies in famed off-road communities such as Fernie, B.C., starting July 23. Fernie also hosts a more grassroots three-stage cross-country event, the Fernie 3 on July 1-3, with its single-day option and family-friendly activities. The popular Test of Metal series of cross-country marathon races hosted by fatbike hot-spot Squamish, B.C. will see some changes in its traditional scheduling. Things kick off early with the Orecrusher on April 16, followed by the Gearjammer on May 7. The Test of Metal sticks to its traditional weekend that begins on June 18, then it’s a long wait before the finale, Just Another Bike Race on Sept. 17. Other quality B.C. Endurance events include the raucous Salty Dog 6 Hour on May 14-15 in Salmon Arm, B.C. and the grueling Nimby Fifty on May 28 in Pemberton, B.C. Ontario’s Paris-to-Ancaster has the honour of opening the off-road racing season on April 24 with its 70km, 40km and 20km options. Ontario also has several eight-hour relay events to choose from, including Chico Racing’s Intense Cycles Epic 8 Hour Relay in Mansfield on May 7, and Pulse Racing’s Summer Epic 8 Hour Relay on June 23 and the Fall Epic 8 Hour Relay on Sept. 24, both at Hardwood Ski and Bike. Hardwood also hosts the Singletrack Classic, formerly a fall event, on May 28, with 25km and 50km competition options. The 24-hour event is having a resurgence of sorts as one of the originals, the 24 Hours of Adrenalin in Canmore, Alta., celebrates 10 years on July 16-17. The new kid on the block, the Golden Two-Four, starts things off on June 18-19 in Golden, B.C., followed by the 24 Hours of Light in Whitehorse, Yukon and the 24 Hours of Summer Solstice in Albion Hills, Ont., both on June 25-26. The Enduro craze “endures” as the discipline’s popularity grows worldwide. Organizers of the BC Enduro Series are introducing three Canadian National Enduro Championships events to accompany the four BC Enduro Series West dates and three BC Enduro Series East rounds. The highlight of the Enduro scene in Canada is stop #6 of the World Enduro Series on Aug. 14 in Whistler, B.C. during the Crankworx mountain-biking festival, which runs Aug. 12-21. Crankworx is the epicentre of the mountain-biking season in North America and features tons of events that attract some of the world’s top downhill, cross-country, dual-slalom and slopestyle riders. Another huge international festival held in Canada is Velirium from Aug. 5-7, featuring the planet’s fastest downhill and XCO racers on the UCI World Cup circuit.

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Expl

bicycle d e fi i t r e r 1,000 c e v o it and s h i t v i , t W a e places to y l your d n s i e i e r f k i B tario By n O , source p e e r e l g s n i n trip plan r e i m e r p nces. e i r e p x e g for cyclin rails outes & t | r s e id urs aps & Gu ents & to v | E Cycling M s g n listi | Business

Photo credit: Kawartha Lakes / Fred Thornhill Photography

stage Races July 1-3 – Fernie 3 - Fernie, B.C., www.fernie.com/transrockies/fernie-3 July 6-13 – BC Bike Race - North Vancouver to Whistler, B.C., www.bcbikerace.com July 23-28 – Singletrack 6 - Kootenay Rockies, B.C., www.singletrack6.com Enduro May 8 – BC Enduro Series West #1 - North Vancouver, B.C., www.bcenduro.com May 15 – BC Enduro Series West #2 - Fraser Valley, B.C., www.bcenduro.com May 21-22 – BC Enduro Series West #3 - Williams Lake, B.C., www.bcenduro.com June 5 – BC Enduro Series West #4 - Kamloops, B.C., www.bcenduro.com June 19 – BC Enduro Series East #1 - Canmore, Alta., www.bcenduro.com June 26 – BC Enduro Series East #2 - Crowsnest Pass, Alta., www.bcenduro.com July 17 – BC Enduro Series East #3 - Golden, B.C., www.bcenduro.com July 31 – Canadian National Enduro Championships - Rossland, B.C., www.bcenduro.com Aug. 14 – World Enduro Series #6 - Whistler, B.C., www.crankworx.com Sept. 3-4 – Canadian National Enduro Championships - Revelstoke, B.C., www.bcenduro.com Sept. 17-18 – Canadian National Enduro Championships - Sun Peaks, B.C., www.bcenduro.com

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 105

COMPETITION | BY SANDRA WALTER

MTB

2016 UCI MTB Preview Rio 2016 Showdown in August

Michal Cerveny

he 2016 UCI MTB world calendar is headlined by the Rio Summer Olympic Games in Brazil on Aug. 20-21, and Canada is ready to take on the world with a strong contingent, but there is much more in store for MTB race fans this year than just Rio. It all starts in April with a loaded off-road schedule that spans through to the beginning of September. Canada’s Catharine Pendrel is ready, willing and able – will the stars align for her and Team Canada?

(far left) Steve Smith will be looking to recapture the form that saw him win the Elite Men’s DH overall series title back in 2014.

Fraser Britton

ANDREW ROGERS

(left) Reigning Elite Men’s MTB XC champ, Raphael Gagne, will be in the hunt for even better results this Olympic year.

Downhill

Cross-country

Steve Smith (CAN, Devinci Global Racing) is expected to continue his upswing as he recovers from major injuries that kept him sidelined for the majority of two seasons, while young teammate Mark Wallace (CAN, Devinci Global Racing) hopes to continue his progress. The women’s gravity pool is looking strong too, after Canadian champion Miranda Miller (CAN, Specialized/ SRAM/PerformX) landed her first World Cup podium in 2015 and youngster Georgia Astle (CAN) finished fourth in the junior women’s competition at the World Championships. The downhillers are first up on the World Cup program, as Rachel Atherton (GBR, Trek World Racing) goes for another season of women’s World Cup domination and Aaron Gwin (USA, Specialized) targets defense of his series title. The best gravity racers descend upon Lourdes, France for a second year on April 9. Then it’s a long-haul trip down under to Cairns, Australia on April 23-24 for a double event shared with their XCO counterparts. The city will also host the 2017 UCI MTB World Championships for downhill, 4X, XCO and XC Eliminator. The downhill’ers are back in the spotlight on June 4-5 in off-the-hook Fort William, Scotland, followed by a go on the famed Leogang Bike Park circuit in Austria. On July 9-10, the World Cup is back in lovely Lenzerheide, Switzerland for a double downhill/XCO get-together before making its only North American stop in perennial-favourite Mont-Ste-Anne, Canada on Aug. 6-7. The series wraps up a month later at Vallnord, Andorra, last year’s World Championships venue. The Downhill and 4X World Championships are scheduled for Sept. 6-11 in Val di Sole, Italy.

Cairns will host the first XCO World Cup of the season. It’s where Canada’s Emily Batty (CAN, Trek Factory Racing) finished second in 2014 for her career-best World Cup result. Stop #2 for the endurance athletes is the steep love-it-or-hate-it course in Albstadt, Germany on May 21-22, followed the next

106 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

2016 UCI MTB World Calendar Canada Cup April 9 – UCI MTB World Cup DH #1 - Lourdes, France April 23-24 – UCI MTB World Cup XCO #1/DH #2 - Cairns, Australia May 21-22 – UCI MTB World Cup XCO #2 - Albstadt, Germany May 28-29 – UCI MTB World Cup XCO #3 - La Bresse, France June 4-5 – UCI MTB World Cup DH #3 - Fort William, Scotland June 5-6 – UCI MTB Marathon World Championships - Laissac, France June 11-12 – UCI MTB World Cup DH #4 - Leogang, Austria June 28-July 3 – UCI MTB XCO/XC Eliminator World Championships - Nove Mesto, Czech Republic July 9-10 – UCI MTB World Cup XCO #4/DH #5 - Lenzerheide, Switzerland Aug. 6-7 – UCI MTB World Cup XCO #5/DH #6 - Mont-Ste-Anne, Canada Aug. 20-21 – Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games MTB XCO, Brazil Sept. 3-4 – UCI MTB World Cup XCO #6/DH #7 - Vallnord, Andorra Sept. 6-11 – UCI MTB DH/4X World Championships - Val di Sole, Italy www.pedalmag.com

weekend by round #3 in La Bresse, France, home to XCO-racing legend and sound Olympic bet Julien Absalon (FRA, BMC). This year’s World Championships are a bit different, with cross-country and downhill held separately. Due to the Rio Games, the XCO and Eliminator XC Worlds will take place early on June 28-July 3 in Nove Mesto, Czech Republic. The Marathon XC Worlds will take place in Laissac, France on June 5-6. Lenzerheide, a favourite venue of Catharine Pendrel (CAN, Luna Pro Team), who finished third there last year, is the fourth stop on the XCO circuit on July 9-10. It’s also the final World Cup before the Olympics. Vallnord, Andorra closes the series on Sept. 3-4. The Canadian Olympic team is led by the only pre-qualified rider, Pendrel, after her fifth place at the 2015 World Championship. Raphael Gagne (CAN, Rocky Mountain) has established himself as the top Canadian man in the XCO discipline after a string of career-best performances last season. It’s also a big year for Switzerland’s Nino Schurter (SUI, Odlo-Scott), who is the defending World Cup champion and world champion. The only thing absent from his palmares is Olympic gold, which he barely missed out on in London 2012, when Jaroslav Kulhavy (CZE, Specialized) bested him in a sprint. Meanwhile, a new women’s Olympic champion is expected in 2016, as 2012 winner Julie Bresset (FRA, Suntour-BH) has been off the radar since her dominant 2012 season. But there’s another young Frenchwoman on the scene who is expected to vie for the gold – 2015 world champion Pauline Ferrand Prevot (FRA, Rabo-Liv). It will also be 2015 overall World Cup winner Jolanda Neff’s (SUI, Stoeckli Pro Team) first Olympics, and she’s a heavy favourite for gold too. Yet past history shows that veterans must not be discounted, so look to established riders such as two-time world champion Pendrel to make strong bids. Canada’s Olympic squad will be officially announced in June, therefore the first three World Cups of 2016 still count toward qualification. Right now, Canada is on track for two women’s and two men’s berths, but country rankings may still change up until the qualification deadline.

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ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 107

COMPETITION | by Jamie Gilgen

TRACK 2016 Track Preview

t’s all about the Rio Olympics. From grassroots to the world stage, Canada is a true track cycling nation as evidenced by our development programs and medal haul in the current World Cup season. The Mattamy National Cycling Centre has been open for more than a year, and our elite cyclists who call Milton home are now, more than ever, able to perform at the highest level, having brought home seven medals during the current World Cup season. A recent generous $100,000 donation by Peter Gilgan, CEO of Mattamy Homes, will help ensure that our athletes have everything they need in their run-up to the track events at the Rio Olympics in Brazil on Aug. 11-16. The Omnium event at Rio makes room for 18 countries, with one rider represented per country. Remi Pelletier-Roy has the task of securing one of these spots for Canada. Pelletier-Roy scored a 16th place at round three in Hong Kong on Jan. 16-17, and is looking forward to the World Championships to lock it down. Pelletier-Roy’s motorpacing sessions at the Milton velodrome make it very clear just how badly he’s willing to work for an Olympic berth in Rio. On the women’s sprint side is Kate O’Brien and Monique Sullivan, who are getting better every day. It’s clear that O’Brien and Sullivan are on the right track, as they raised the bar in Hong Kong by bringing home a Canadian record fourth place in the Team sprint. O’Brien also had a personal-best top-10 in the sprint competition. Sullivan had a breakthrough in World Cup #2 in New Zealand on Dec. 5-6, where she won her first World Cup medal with a bronze in the Keirin. This duo doesn’t yet have their Olympic spot secured, but will be looking to do so at the Track World Championships in France on March 2-6. Canada’s men’s Team Pursuit squad made up of Ed Veal, Adam Jamieson, Sean Mackinnon, Aidan Caves and Pelletier-Roy, along with new addition Jay Lamoureux are showing consistent improvement. Under the guidance of the men’s head track coach, Ian Melvin, the squad recently scored a Canadian-best ninth place at World Cup #2 in New Zealand. Hugo Barrette suffered a bad crash during training at World Cup #1 in

2016 Upcoming Events Canada Cup Jan. 23 – SpeedPro Grand Prix - London, Ont. Jan. 24 – Track Ontario Cup #2 - Milton, Ont. Jan. 30 – Track Youth Ontario Cup #2 - Milton, Ont. Feb. 2 – Milton Cycling Academy Race Night - Milton, Ont. Feb. 6 – Miss and Out Special - London, Ont. Feb. 13 – Track Ontario Cup #3 - Milton, Ont. Feb. 19-21 – Barebones #2 - Burnaby, B.C. Feb. 23 – Milton Cycling Academy Race Night - Milton, Ont. Feb. 27 – Track Youth Ontario Cup #3 - Milton, Ont. March 2-6 – UCI Track World Championships - London, England March 4-6 – Ontario Track Provincial Championships - Milton, Ont. March 26 – Mary Kelly Memorial and Birthday Bash - London, Ont. April 1-2 – U17/U19 Canadian Track Championships April 1-3 – Junior Track Nationals - Milton, Ont. Aug. 11-16 – Rio Olympic Games Track Events - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 108 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

Guy Swarbrick

World Cup Medals Bode Well for Rio 2016

Cali, Colombia on Oct. 30-Nov. 1, which The Canadian women’s Team Pursuit rendered him unable to race at the next squad won gold in Hong Kong and the round in New Zealand. Luckily, Barrette overall World Cup title: (l-r) Annie made a remarkably fast recovery and Foreman-Mackey, Laura Brown, Steph Roorda and Georgia Simmerling. clinched a silver medal in the Keirin at the Hong Kong World Cup. This silver medal moved Barrette from 30th to sixth place in the World Cup rankings, which puts him back in the running to represent Canada at Rio. He will be another Canadian vying for an Olympic spot at the Track Worlds. Last, but certainly not least, is the women’s Team Pursuit squad. As mentioned previously, Canada has gone three for three with two golds and a silver in the current World Cup season. With this run-up to the Track World Championships, all eyes will be on Canada. The current squad is made up of Allison Beveridge, Jasmin Glaesser, Steph Roorda, Laura Brown, Annie Foreman-Mackey, Kirsti Lay and new member Georgia Simmerling. Upon winning gold at the first World Cup, the women donned the coveted white UCI World Cup leader’s skinsuit and, despite fierce competition, wore the jerseys the entire World Cup season, claiming the title in Hong Kong. In addition to a top spot in the Team Pursuit, both Beveridge and Glaesser have been busy bringing home gold and silver medals in the Omnium and Points race, respectively. Under the guidance of the women’s head track coach, Craig Griffin, the medal potential at the Worlds and in Rio is very exciting. Two-time winter Olympian ski-cross racer Simmerling, a new addition to the women’s Team Pursuit squad, has taken the track world by storm. Rolling the boards for the first time a mere 18 months ago, Simmerling has skyrocketed from beginner to World Cup gold medalist. She has a real chance of gaining membership into the exclusive club of those who have competed at both the Winter and Summer Games. Elite racers are not the only Canadians making a mark on the world stage – juniors are also making their mark as well. One only has to look at the new Youth Ontario Cup Track events and other similar programs across the country to see that Canada’s development program is burgeoning. Last year at the Junior World Championships, only a men’s Team Pursuit squad was sent, but it’s looking promising this year for the women’s Team Pursuit and men’s sprint. The juniors have made great progress over the past year, and will continue to improve with more time on the boards. They will be targeting the Junior Track Nationals on April 1-3 to hit the time standards required to represent Canada at the Junior Track World Championships in August. The 2015 National Track Championships at the Mattamy National Cycling Centre on Oct. 7-11 featured a record 222 participants. Racers vying for a spot in the national development program must first hit certain time standards, and there’s no better place to do this than at Nationals. The dates for the 2016 Championships have not been announced, but will likely be held again in October. There is no shortage of exciting local racing happening across Canada. Mattamy National Cycling Centre hosts the new Ontario Cup Track series for youth, Elites and Masters; Burnaby Velodrome has its Barebones Racing series and Friday race nights; and the Forest City Velodrome has no shortage of high-speed, high g-force racing with events such as the Mary Kelly Memorial. www.pedalmag.com

COMPETITION | Gaelen Merritt

ROAD

Road 2016 Season Preview The Road Scene is Bursting Across Canada

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Chris Redden

anada’s 2016 season kicks off with top-level amateur racing in Ontario with the second annual Grey County Time Trial and Road Race, being held respectively on May 27 and May 29. A difficult scenic-caves hilltop finish awaits Canada’s best amateur racers, many of whom are aiming to use this event to qualify for the World Amateur Championships to be held in Perth, Australia on Sept. 4. Event organizer Bruce Bird promises the event will be bigger and even more spectacular than its inaugural year in 2015. The Grand Prix Cycliste de Gatineau will showcase Canada’s female Union-Cycliste-Internationale-level (UCI) racers. The event will be held from June 2-5, with the women’s UCI road race on June 2, a time-trial event on June 3, an Elite amateur men’s race on June 4 and a gran fondo for everyone on June 5. From June 9-12, Matteo Dal Cin and the rest of the Silber Pro Cycling squad will defend their yellow jersey at the Grand Prix Cycliste de Saguenay. The event will provide domestic Elite men with some excellent National Racing Calendar (NRC) race days in a stage-race format. From June 10-14, the legendary Tour de Beauce stage race runs in and around the town of Georgesville, Que. Beauce is widely regarded as one of Canada’s premier and most difficult stage races, and as such it serves as a proving ground for Canadian and international talent. The event began in 1986 as a one-day race and expanded into a stage race in 1990. Svein Tuft was the last Canadian to win the overall back in 2008. Last year, Pelly Bilbao of the Spain-based Caja Rural squad took the overall win on the final-day circuit race in Georgesville, while Ryan Roth (Silber Pro Cycling) was Canada’s top finisher in fifth overall. Following Tour de Beauce on the National calendar are the Canadian National Road Race and Time Trial Championships to be held in the Ottawa/ Gatineau area from June 25-June 29. Guillaume Boivin (Israeli Cycling Academy Team) and Joelle Numainville (Bigla Pro Cycling Team) will look to defend their respective road-race titles, while Hugo Houle (AG2R-La Mondiale) and Karol-Ann Canuel (Boels-Dolmans) hope to defend their wins in the time-trial event. From July 8-16, NRC race events take place on the West Coast with the exciting BC Superweek. The event continues to grow and features larger crowds and even larger cash prizes. Having UCI and NRC points awarded at many of the events has made this a very appealing series of eight races over nine days for many Professional domestic and international teams. With more than $110,000 in cash prizes and equal prize money for the top-three men’s and women’s podium finishers, organizers hope to attract more riders and teams to these events. The Tour of Rimouski consists of a five-day stage race from July 6-10 for cadet and junior women. This is the only UCI-1.1-level event for these categories in North America, and, as such, attracts up-and-coming Canadian and international talent. On July 22, the City of Kitchener hosts the third annual Twilight Grand Prix. The exciting, fast four-corner Criterium features large cash prizes and many top-level teams. Roth won the men’s event last year in a stunning solo effort with three laps to go. Look for Roth and the rest of Canada’s elite men and women to light up the streets of downtown Kitchener. The Tour of Abitibi (July 19-24) continues to test and develop young

Canadian riders and features promising juRoad cycling action begins in nior riders from around the world. Big-name late May and continues until talents Tyler Farrar (Dimension Data) and mid-September. Lachlan Morton (Jelly Belly) have claimed the overall title at Abitibi in years past. Adrien Costa (USA) won last year’s event, while Pier-Andre Cote (Quebec) was top Canuck in fourth overall. The addition of a sprint challenge on the first day of competition has been an exciting way to kick off this popular, well-regarded stage race for juniors. The fourth annual Tour of Alberta (Aug. 30-Sept. 5) will continue to pit Canadian domestic talent against WorldTour squads. Canadian performances in the rain- and mud-soaked 2015 edition included that of Michael Woods (with Optum at the Tour, but now with Cannondale Pro Cycling), who took home the Best Canadian jersey (10th overall), and Silber’s Ben Perry, the KOM winner. While the official parcours is currently unreleased, look for a more southerly (and hopefully drier) route in 2016. The Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec and Montréal (Sept. 9 and 11) are now well-established North American WorldTour events. The long hilly circuits of both events make them ideal preparatory races for the World Championships. These races also provide a chance for team sponsors to receive more coverage in the North American market. Although we have yet to see a Canadian win either of these two WorldTour races, Silber’s Roth has featured prominently in breakaways of years past, and won the KOM classification at Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec in 2015.

2016 Major Road Events Canada Cup May 27-29 – Grey County Road Race June 9-12 – Grand Prix Cycliste de Saguenay June 2-5 – Grand Prix Cycliste de Gatineau June 10-14 – Tour de Beauce June 25-29 – Elite/U23/Junior/Para Canadian Road Championships July 8-12 – Grand Prix de Rimouski July 10-18 – BC Superweek July 19-24 – Tour de l’Abitibi July 22 – Kitchener Twilight Grand Prix Aug. 10-14 – Grand Prix Cycliste de la Matapédia Aug. 30-Sept. 5 – Tour of Alberta Sept. 9 – Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec Sept. 11 – Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 109

BY WIllIam hUmBER

Back Pedaling Canada’s Cycling Identity Then and Now

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hat say the Canadians, an American cyclist of 1884 wanted to know, regarding the existence of two separate organizations? “A feature I might offer for the organization to attempt would be this – the amalgamation of the Canadian Wheelmen’s Association with the League of American Wheelmen. There exists no reason for a separate organization in Canada. There are only 500 members, just sufficient to form a moderate State Division. “Many of our cyclists tour in Canada, in consequence of the fine quality of the roads, and it would be a fitting termination of the Chicago Club’s journey this year to see a union of the two organizations and the placing of one at least upon a thoroughly sure foundation.” The one, he no doubt meant, on a surer foundation with amalgamation would be the Canadian, though its growth from 200 to 500 members

over the last year suggested there was lew Elder (held by Doc morton) and Torchy Peden at little need to worry. the start of a race at hern hill, It behooved anyone london, England, 1928 at this or any other time, however, to wonder at the staying power of Canadian identity. Around this time, a future American president, Teddy Roosevelt, and others of his ilk were declaiming (in regards to a dispute with Great Britain on the matter of payments associated with the damages inﬂicted by a ship built for the Confederate States in the late Civil War) about simply annexing Canada and calling it even. Roosevelt would later speak of the ease of taking Canada should matters ever boil over with Britain on other disputes, the Alaska Boundary disagreement of 1903 being one such. Even one of his Republican allies thought he’d gone too far, stating, “You’re crazy, Roosevelt! What’s wrong with Canada?” – his implication being that Americans should just leave their northern neighbours alone. Maintaining not just a separate Canadian identity, but one with political uniqueness was clearly not a forgone conclusion in the latter days of the 19th century and into the early 20th. Cycling might have seemed small grubstakes in larger matters of state, but the way Canadians went about imagining a country was to play no small role in the jurisdictional independence ultimately emerging. It could roil over seemingly small items such as a United States Treasury Department decision that a cyclist entering the U.S. must first pass through the customs house, and if the bike was of foreign manufacture, a duty of 35% was slapped on the hapless rider. It took an appeal to the U.S. Attorney General to eventually rule that if the bike was

accompanied by its owner it would be classed as personal effects and not subject to duty. Like death by a thousand paper cuts, these were annoyances that could have resulted in a different fate for Canada had its citizens of the day not stood their ground. Yet some did suggest conforming to American leadership on the matter of its wheelmen’s-association affinity. A braver and more truculent lot, however, argued vociferously for a Canadian position and organization, and today’s Canadians can thank them for their forthrightness. Other sports drew mixed conclusions. By 1884, Canadian baseball had come deeply under the control of American overlords, but football was carving out its own unique identity. Cockfighting had its own set of made-in-Canada rules, but, like its cousin organizations south of the border, was eventually at first curtailed and then mercifully banned. Hockey, the truly great Canadian symbol, had a brief period of independence before succumbing to American dollars and control by the late 1920’s. That’s a struggle we’ve never won back. So we can applaud the Canadian cyclists of days of yore and their spirit of national pride. A few months after the imbroglio regarding associational connection, Canadians warmly welcomed the Chicago riders and escorted them through Niagara Falls, onto Toronto’s elite Rossin House and then spent four days with them along the north shore of Lake Ontario before the Americans descended back into New York State on their way to Boston. We love and respect our neighbours to the south then as now, but there are also times when we cautiously like to maintain a certain distance in the interest of our own survival. www.pedalmag.com

BY ALEX STIEDA

Sportif Stieda Remembering “Baz”

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courtesy of Barry Lycett

think many of us can all look back and point to key individuals who made a difference in our lives. If you’ve been around the sport of cycling for a while, the list gets shorter and easier to define. For me, there were a few key cycling mentors during my career, but one person stood out – Barry Lycett. We called him “Baz.” I grew up in Coquitlam, B.C., a suburb of Vancouver, and was introduced to bike racing by chance in 1977 by a neighbour, Harold Bridge. Harold was a randonneur cyclist who showed me the “rules of the road” that all cyclists needed to obey. Harold then suggested that I enter the weekly 10-mile time trial that the Vets club put on at UBC. After a few time trials, I met such like-minded junior riders as Brian Green, Bruce Spicer and Neil Davies. They suggested that I join them at the China Creek Track, a wooden outdoor velodrome built for the 1954 Empire Games (now called the Commonwealth Games). That’s where it all changed for me. Barry “Baz” Lycett was the coach at the track. He ran the show. Baz grew up in England in the 1950’s, and cycling was part of his life from early on. He “escaped” from the coalmines of Yorkshire by excelling at grass track racing as part of the Yorkshire Featherstone Cycling Club. Grass track riders had to be shorter, more compact and smarter to be able to handle the tight turns, compared to the longer outdoor “hard” tracks. After winning four National Championships, he was invited to travel with the British team to the West Indies, where they competed on cricket grounds with their single-speed, fixedgear track bikes. Racing allowed Baz to get a taste of the world outside of England, and in 1969, he decided to immigrate to Vancouver, B.C. Once on the West Coast, he quickly integrated into the cycling scene, starting a new club (Anglia CC) and coaching local riders such as Brian Keast to the 1972 Olympic Games. Over the following 20 years, Baz continued to coach and mentor a Who’s Who of Canadian cycling’s elite, including Ron Hayman, Pierre Harvey, Jocelyn Lovell, Stu Nichols, Hugh Walton, Adrian Prosser, Steve Bauer, Karen Strong, Curt Harnett and many others. He was part of the team that re-built the China Creek Velodrome in 1973, working tirelessly for six months to bring it up to spec, culminating in a demonstration race featuring High Porter, the famous British Pursuit’er. Later, with a business partner, he resurrected the Gastown Grand Prix, and ran the event for nine years as part of the Canadian Tire Series. After the 1976 Montreal Olympics, he traveled back to Europe to assist Willie DeBoscher as soigneur and mechanic on the six-day circuit, working

at 50 six-days over four winters, gathering further training and racing knowledge along the way. Fortunately for me, Baz was based in Vancouver during my formative years as a junior. In 1977, we spent two days a week at our Vancouver track, and on Friday nights, Baz would load up his Volvo wagon with four track bikes and we’d all go down to Seattle’s Redmond Track to race our hearts out. We learned everything we needed to know about road and track racing from Baz, including race tactics, gear selection, training, intervals, heart zones, recovery, nutrition, even the secrets of choosing the right tubular glue! I have incredible memories of going to the Track Nationals with the B.C. team and winning every event that we entered, all due to Baz’s experience and attention to detail. I then had the privilege of having Baz assist me with my preparation for the 1986 and 1989 Track Worlds. Baz was what we called a “rider’s coach.” Whatever he did, he did with the rider’s goals in mind. Unfortunately, other coaches who preceded and followed him at the National level were simply too political to allow the rider to take precedence. Baz retired to Victoria in 2003, where he continues to ride three times a week with his best friends, at their own pace, leaving the racing to those new riders uninitiated to the joys of simply feeling the road. Since he started his coaching and bike-fitting work, he has fit more than 5,500 people onto new bikes, using all of the knowledge he has gained over the years. At 77 years old, he still has a memory as sharp as a tack and continues to share his passion for the sport. Chapeau to you, Baz. ANNUAL 2016 PEDAL 111

Barry “Baz” Lycett was a “rider’s coach” who mentored some of the Who’s Who of Canada’s cycling elite.

BY STEVE BAUER

Last Word Speedtrak Launches at Mattamy Velodrome

photos: cyclesport management

very rider who takes the start line of a race dreams of winning. Whether it’s one on one or team against team, the drive for the final outcome remains the same. Is track racing about to get a much-needed facelift post-Rio-OlympicGames? I understand that the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has hired Deloitte to access stakeholders to gain insight into this sport and report back to the UCI track commission. Are we in for change? Time will tell. A very interesting concept called Speedtrak has surfaced, and could become a format of discovery for international track cycling. It’s a game. Team versus team, teams race for points – the team with the most points wins. Exciting, short, mano-a-mano, tactically demanding, simple-to-grasp, made-for-television – and streaming – bike racing all in one stadium’s velodrome. I believe track cycling could use an adjustment. How many Individual Pursuits do you really want to watch over a two-hour program? Let’s add up the format. Canada’s own Allison Beveridge recently won gold in the Omnium at the New Zealand World Cup. Here is an idea. How about we throw the boring time trials out of the World (left) Riders warming up - racing of Cups, the World Championships and any kind needs to be entertaining and get-you-out-of-your-seat exciting. Olympic Games. Kilometre, Individual Pursuit, Flying Lap – let’s leave these time-trial races for the record books and, perhaps, from time to time or on a special occasion incorporate a man-on-man challenge over one kilometre or four kilometres. It would be cool to have some one-off showdowns featuring talent such as Rohan Denis versus Bradley Wiggins! I believe that track cycling must move toward exciting man-to-man, woman-to-woman, team-against-team racing. Riders need to be racing against each other, and not against the clock, to maintain an exciting dynamic that fires up spectators. Teams need to be racing on the track against each other in more events than just the Team Pursuit and Team sprint. One rider racing around the track by himself against the clock is simply not exciting. On Feb. 23, 2016 at the Mattamy National Cycling Centre, the Tuesday-night race held a world-premiere “proof of concept” for the Speedtrak game. The former U.S. track cyclist and founder of Speedtrak, John Vande Velde, said, “The sport is horribly undermined by not lending itself to TV viewing,” and he is betting all of this will likely change with his new race format. Vande Velde rode for the U.S. National Team at the 1968 and 1972 Olympics; he is also the father of Christian Vande Velde, a retired road cyclist and veteran of 20+ Grand Tours, who ended his racing career with Slipstream-Chipotle in 2013. On Feb. 23, we saw a very positive glimpse at what track racing could implement and how it could up the excitement factor. The Speedtrak game base was four teams comprised of men and women in a series of races marking points for their team. The home team won. If you go to a basketball game, hockey game or football game, you want to see the excitement of the home team versus the away team. On occasion, it must be entertaining and getyou-out-of-your-seat exciting. I believe track cycling could take a page out of the multi-billion-dollar team-sports playbook, and that thinking may just give a boost to track cycling and our sport in general. (above) Speedtrak offers exciting, short, mano-a-mano, tactically demanding, simple-to-grasp bike racing at its best.

time trials in the current Olympic Games’ track-cycling Omnium: two genders, three time trials for each gender, 24 riders competing, which equals 144 time trials! The current Omnium has fantastic elements, but is a veritable challenge for riders and spectators, as it combines all the traditional track-cycling races into one event and dedicates one rider to do them all over two days of competition – sprint, Flying Lap time trial, Kilometre time trial, Elimination, four-kilometre Pursuit time trial and Scratch Race. Then, just when you think you’ve got it, the Omnium culminates with the Points race, where points are added onto the existing overall Omnium score, which often makes it tough for spectators to understand the scoring and the tactics of the final race. On more than one occasion, the Points race often becomes a defensive race for the leaders to protect their overall position in the Omnium, and the racing can be negative, rather than watching the best in the world race to win the Points race. I am not beating up on the athletes, certainly not – it’s the 112 PEDAL ANNUAL 2016

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