I've been totally wiped out since returning from Interbike in Las Vegas! It feels as though I'm sick, but without any other symptoms... just straight-up tiredness!
Vegas, for whatever reason, despite the upbeat mood and atmosphere was a black hole! My friend Martha lost a very valuable-to-her notebook, another acquaintance lost a wallet, my bro-ham Stevil lost his camera and my very own lovely wife lost her wallet. I knew of a few more such occurrences, but I have forgotten them at this moment (a residual effect of the black hole experience, I am sure).
Anyway... I'm still trying to regain the mental capacity to write up a proper recap of the Vegas adventures, so please be patient as I allow the battery to somewhat recharge for another day or two. I will be back... as soon as I can stop yawning and falling face first onto my laptop keyboard.
Tim
Showing posts with label Interbike. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Interbike. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Hello? Anybody there?
Ok- so I'm not dead. Promise... though I did once again try to kill myself; Saturday evening while getting ready to pack for demo, I sliced my right thumb (yes- that thumb) with a very sharp knife and spent the evening in the ER getting stitches... stoopidity is a dangerous thing.
Anyway, Interbike was awesome. Had a great time and the bikes got a great reception at both Dirt Demo and the actual show. Lots of good buzz and conversations and time spent with my friends from the industry. I was once again reminded why I love this silly business.
My brain is far too fried to recap it all, so I will simply leave you a few links for now and then I'll be back later with a more comprehensive retelling of festivities. Yes- I still love you and I hope you know I've missed you.
New stuff worth knowing about.
Little video interview.
THE coolest schwag from Interbike!
Tim
Anyway, Interbike was awesome. Had a great time and the bikes got a great reception at both Dirt Demo and the actual show. Lots of good buzz and conversations and time spent with my friends from the industry. I was once again reminded why I love this silly business.
My brain is far too fried to recap it all, so I will simply leave you a few links for now and then I'll be back later with a more comprehensive retelling of festivities. Yes- I still love you and I hope you know I've missed you.
New stuff worth knowing about.
Little video interview.
THE coolest schwag from Interbike!
Tim
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Welcome to Interbeast!
Interbike is nearly upon us and the stress levels at Bike companies across the US and the globe are through the roof... unless they're not attending. Eurobike is the biggest of the bike trade shows, but it can still be argued (possibly flimsily) that Interbike is the more "important" show in terms of global impact. Many of the newest products from manufacturers are still officially unveiled at Interbike- though more and more are being introduced now at Eurobike. If for no other reason, the products that were not ready by Eurobike for their launch, sure as hell need to be ready by Interbike if the companies want to have a chance at reaching the global audience effectively. Like Eurobike, Interbike commands the attention of the world's cycling press and with the success of the Dirt Demo component of things, test editors can also get knee deep into the fun and sample numerous products all in one spot- perfect for instant "side by side" comparisons. Needless to say... both shows are a big damned deal. Maybe because we're still primarily "an American company", Interbike carries the greatest amount of stress for us each year.
Over the past few weeks and months, we've been ratcheting up the work and preparations in anticipation of Interbike... or Interbeast as some like to call it. Our creative guys have been working nearly 24hr shifts getting all the needed signage and other art needs ready. The Product Managers have been scrambling to make sure all of their samples are ready to be displayed- using duct tape and bubble gum to make them work, where necessary. Lots of hand painted and hand decaled items exist this time of year. We Brand Managers have been scrambling to coordinate the efforts of our Product Managers and assist where we can while providing the creative guys with the copy they need, or other direction. We've also been working with the sales folks to make sure we're all getting ready for the same things- communicating the right messages and delivering what is needed to make the show a success. We've also been getting demo fleets of bikes ready for test riders at Dirt Demo, as well gathering up the various sundries required to pull off Demo.
That's just a small part of it all too. Countless hours have been spent gathering the catalogs, building the booth, packing the supplies, making sure things work and are ready, etc, etc, etc... and a small army is required to make it all happen. We have a particularly small army, so it's always a matter of "all hands on deck". Sunday morning I will be part of the caravan driving the big rental trucks to Las Vegas. One half of the fleet will be headed to the convention center to set up the booth and all of the displays and the rest of us will be heading to Bootleg Canyon in Boulder city for the Dirt Demo action- we're not setting up the booth, but we are standing in 100+ degree heat, with sand being blown into every crack or crevice. It's a fun job... but a hot, dry and dirty one. Every year I leave Demo and head to the show totally dried out from the sun, possibly a little burned, and usually pretty sore from all the standing and running around. It's fun... but it hurts.
One might ask, "then why do all this?" We've all been asking that question for decades! Interbike- and other shows like Eurobike in Germany and ExpoCycle in Montreal- still remain the most effective ways to launch products to the retailers, media and ultimately consumers. A few brands are skipping Interbike in favor of smaller regional shows just for their retailers, so that they have a captive and focused audience. Show dates are moving farther and farther away from the dates of product releases and selling seasons (selling to the retailers), so they are losing a little of that particular power, but they still remain the "necessary evil" that works more than it doesn't work. Shows continue to evolve or devolve as demos prove more successful and regional/ private shows become more popular, but for now the shows still remain the best option available- especially for small brands still growing dealer base and with limited funds that make regional shows unaffordable... brands like Masi.
Another reason why we subject ourselves to the torturous amounts of stress is because we're a pretty social group of people, we bike industry wankers. We still suffer psychologically from an inferiority complex compared to other industries/ businesses, so we tend to do many things "the old way"- meaning tradeshows that no longer really meet the function they were originally created for. I can count the number of actual orders I've written at a tradeshow in the past five years on one and a half hands. BUT... the follow-up business has been significant as we've worked to rebuild the Masi brand. Most of our retailers have already gotten their catalogs and sales information long ago and are already placing orders now, so Vegas becomes a social event, if they chose to attend. Vegas is much more party than business function, but that's the whole point of evolution.
So, yes, I'm down to the last weathered tatters of sanity now. The show is looming large on the horizon and sleepless nights abound. I know I'm going to forget something or mess something up- it's just a matter of "what"... not "if". BUT... I will also see friends I only see once a year if I'm lucky, I'll get to look at really nice bikes (even the ones that aren't a Masi) and I'll hopefully get to see that new product that becomes the BIG THING. Most importantly, hopefully there will be that one conversation with a friend or somebody new that I walk away from the show remembering for years. Some years it's as simple as chatting with a "hero"- like the year I talked with John Tomac for a long time, or the time I hung out with Bob Roll- or maybe it'll be one of those quiet sidebar conversations that are too many to remember and too few to be satisfied with. In the end, the main reason I go through this nutty nonsense- aside from not having a choice because it's my job- is because I love this stuff. Every Interbeast comes and goes with so much fuss and calamity that I feel like I need to change careers... until the the anxiety fades and I remember the fun and the cool stuff. Between all the chaos lies my favorite time of the year. Go figure...
Tim
Over the past few weeks and months, we've been ratcheting up the work and preparations in anticipation of Interbike... or Interbeast as some like to call it. Our creative guys have been working nearly 24hr shifts getting all the needed signage and other art needs ready. The Product Managers have been scrambling to make sure all of their samples are ready to be displayed- using duct tape and bubble gum to make them work, where necessary. Lots of hand painted and hand decaled items exist this time of year. We Brand Managers have been scrambling to coordinate the efforts of our Product Managers and assist where we can while providing the creative guys with the copy they need, or other direction. We've also been working with the sales folks to make sure we're all getting ready for the same things- communicating the right messages and delivering what is needed to make the show a success. We've also been getting demo fleets of bikes ready for test riders at Dirt Demo, as well gathering up the various sundries required to pull off Demo.
That's just a small part of it all too. Countless hours have been spent gathering the catalogs, building the booth, packing the supplies, making sure things work and are ready, etc, etc, etc... and a small army is required to make it all happen. We have a particularly small army, so it's always a matter of "all hands on deck". Sunday morning I will be part of the caravan driving the big rental trucks to Las Vegas. One half of the fleet will be headed to the convention center to set up the booth and all of the displays and the rest of us will be heading to Bootleg Canyon in Boulder city for the Dirt Demo action- we're not setting up the booth, but we are standing in 100+ degree heat, with sand being blown into every crack or crevice. It's a fun job... but a hot, dry and dirty one. Every year I leave Demo and head to the show totally dried out from the sun, possibly a little burned, and usually pretty sore from all the standing and running around. It's fun... but it hurts.
One might ask, "then why do all this?" We've all been asking that question for decades! Interbike- and other shows like Eurobike in Germany and ExpoCycle in Montreal- still remain the most effective ways to launch products to the retailers, media and ultimately consumers. A few brands are skipping Interbike in favor of smaller regional shows just for their retailers, so that they have a captive and focused audience. Show dates are moving farther and farther away from the dates of product releases and selling seasons (selling to the retailers), so they are losing a little of that particular power, but they still remain the "necessary evil" that works more than it doesn't work. Shows continue to evolve or devolve as demos prove more successful and regional/ private shows become more popular, but for now the shows still remain the best option available- especially for small brands still growing dealer base and with limited funds that make regional shows unaffordable... brands like Masi.
Another reason why we subject ourselves to the torturous amounts of stress is because we're a pretty social group of people, we bike industry wankers. We still suffer psychologically from an inferiority complex compared to other industries/ businesses, so we tend to do many things "the old way"- meaning tradeshows that no longer really meet the function they were originally created for. I can count the number of actual orders I've written at a tradeshow in the past five years on one and a half hands. BUT... the follow-up business has been significant as we've worked to rebuild the Masi brand. Most of our retailers have already gotten their catalogs and sales information long ago and are already placing orders now, so Vegas becomes a social event, if they chose to attend. Vegas is much more party than business function, but that's the whole point of evolution.
So, yes, I'm down to the last weathered tatters of sanity now. The show is looming large on the horizon and sleepless nights abound. I know I'm going to forget something or mess something up- it's just a matter of "what"... not "if". BUT... I will also see friends I only see once a year if I'm lucky, I'll get to look at really nice bikes (even the ones that aren't a Masi) and I'll hopefully get to see that new product that becomes the BIG THING. Most importantly, hopefully there will be that one conversation with a friend or somebody new that I walk away from the show remembering for years. Some years it's as simple as chatting with a "hero"- like the year I talked with John Tomac for a long time, or the time I hung out with Bob Roll- or maybe it'll be one of those quiet sidebar conversations that are too many to remember and too few to be satisfied with. In the end, the main reason I go through this nutty nonsense- aside from not having a choice because it's my job- is because I love this stuff. Every Interbeast comes and goes with so much fuss and calamity that I feel like I need to change careers... until the the anxiety fades and I remember the fun and the cool stuff. Between all the chaos lies my favorite time of the year. Go figure...
Tim
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Virtual Tradeshow- Interbike 2008- Part Three
Tonight's Virtual Tradeshow will wrap up the series and will highlight two of the most exciting categories of bikes (Steel and 3VC carbon), as well as the new framesets on offer.
So let us begin...
Steel Series:
Our steel bikes are our biggest selling category of bikes and we are extremely proud of them. I've been yammering about steel bikes for decades, literally, and I still believe in their incredible ride character. Sure, as a race dork, I like my super light carbon or scandium bikes too... but steel is and always will be my favorite frame material. We've put together one helluva line of steel bikes for you and I am confident you're gonna like these bikes!
Speciale Fixed- this is our best selling model and with good reason. It is such a joy to ride and it looks gorgeous. Sure, I'm biased, but I spend way more time on this bike than any of the other bikes I am blessed to get to ride (I AM spoiled). The new Metallic Yellow is the "wild" color, compared to the beautiful "mild" Shamrock Green second color option. Double butted steel frame with lugged steel fork, sealed bearing track hubs (flip/flop rear) and a geometry that is comfortable on the road and capable of being ridden on the track as well. The geometry is biased more towards road than track, allowing for less toe overlap when riding on the rough city streets. Overall though, for the money, this is one great bike.
Speciale Fixed LTD- What else can you say about this bike other than "WOW"? The same frame as the Speciale Fixed, but with a lot of upgraded and purdied-up parts on it; the Weinmann rims, the painted chain, the Sugino cranks and chainring with red ano' chainring bolts, the red spoke nipples, the red ano' seat collar and headset spacers, the Deda Velocista steel sprint bars, the MKS pedals and steel toeclips with leather toes... it's a phenomenal bike. And we haven't talked about the finish of the frame! The frame is an unpainted Nekkid (yes, that's the finish name) that is amazing to look at. Since it is unpainted, you get to see the raw steel and all of the character of the tubing, as well as the welds and the bronze at the braze-ons and rear dropouts. It's truly striking.
Speciale Commuter- another of our best selling bikes. The Commuter is another SS/Fixed bike, but with the addition of a rear derailleur hanger, shifter bosses and braze-ons for racks and fenders. It is ready to build up with anything you want and can handle the demands of some light touring or just dirt/ gravel road exploration. It's a sweet rig! The second color option is the Orange Creme color we released last Spring.
Speciale Randonneur- building directly off the platform of the Commuter frame, the Randonneur is designed to be a fully capable touring bike or totally tricked out commuting/ city bike. And, yes, before anybody else points it out- the saddle is too high on this bike. I know, I know, I know... That said, it's still a really beautiful bike. The MKS pedals and toeclips, the Dia-Compe bar end shifters and brake calipers and the included fenders create one mighty nice looking bike for the money. And, yes, it rides really, really well.
Speciale CX- what a sexy bike! Dang! The CX continues to be a very strong bike for us. The geometry is not as aggressive as the CXR and the BB is not as high, but it is still totally capable of getting out in the muck and mire of a cross race. It's also equally happy to be used as an all around city bike, winter foul weather road bike, or a sturdy light touring bike. It's everything you want and nothing you don't! (Sorry... I just had to use that line...)
Speciale (105)- here is a simple, classic, elegant road bike... just made sexier! It's a reasonably rational 105 component spec' with some very nice riding Ritchey wheels and Ritchey bar and stem. It's cool enough there, but when you throw in the over all look of the bike with the white tires, white cable housings and that insanely beautiful Ruby Red metallic paint... it's just too beautiful for normal comprehension. I routinely had to wipe the slobber off the bike during the show. Maybe we'll spec it with a bib next year...
Carbon Series:
Our carbon 3VC bikes kick ass. Don't just take my word for it, ask the riders of the Inferno Pro Cycling team (now Kenda Pro Cycling). They love their 3VC bikes and have been pulling off the wins aboard them. They're great riding frames- this, coming from a guy who is not a huge carbon junky. These frames have excellent stiffness in the rear stays, head tube and bottom bracket area. The curved stays produce an excellent feeling ride that hugs the ground and still manages to eat up road vibrations. Yes... the best of both worlds; "stiff yet compliant"...
3VC 105- the new Ruby Red paint on this carbon bike is unreal. The metallic paint on the carbon has so much depth and luster to it. It is almost 3D when you get it in the sunlight. The 105 parts package is an excellent blend of performance and affordability- it might just be the perfect first true race bike for the aspiring racer out there. Keep in mind that we use the same frame on all models, so the 105 version is the same as the frame ridden by the pros... there's no different carbon used, no heavier resins, no corner cutting... just the same exact frame that our professional riders are lucky enough to ride. You'll also notice that the bike pictured on the bottom here is a new 48cm size that we are bringing in for the 105 model only, for the time being. Like the rest of the Bellissima series, it uses narrower bars and a zero-offset seatpost.
3VC Ultegra SL- this is another one of those bikes that is just amazing. Let's face it, unless you're a pro rider or just have to have the best high end components, the performance of the new Ultegra SL parts is more than adequate. These parts are so close to being Dura Ace level, it'd be hard for me to personally tell the difference in a blind test... it's that good. Add in the amazing Chromium metallic paint that really compliments the Ice Grey finish of the parts and you have a stunning looking bike, but we kick it up a notch (BAM!) with the unreal good looks of the Ritchey Wet Black finish WCS bar, stem and seatpost. There will be Pro Tour riders next year riding on bikes that won't look this good... I promise.
3VC Dura Ace- built up with the all new Dura Ace 7900 component group and some of the sweetest aftermarket friendly parts, this is the racer's dream come true. If you're a Shimano fan, then this is the bike for you! The new Ritchey Wet White stem is a wonderful touch to complete the overall look of the bike as well. It's spec'ed ready to race and turn heads on your favorite group ride.
3VC Team Issue Red- here's the baddest of badass bikes! Full SRAM Red group, Zipp 404 wheels, Ritchey WCS carbon bar, stem and seatpost, Arione saddle and one of the sexiest frames in the industry... what else could you possibly want? If you insist on the very best without compromise, this is the bike you have been lookig for. It's a no-holds-barred badass and is more than happy to make your friends suffer like pigs on your next ride.
Framesets:
We have been slowly building back up the number and types of framesets that we offer. We offer both the CXR and 3VC Team Issue as framesets, as well as complete bikes. And we have the following two additional models available as well... because we believe in options- not limits! (Man, my Marketing mumbo-jumbo is flowing tonight!)
Coltello- this is a full-on race frameset with a very aggressive track geometry and very high bottom bracket for riding the steepest tracks in the world. So fast in fact, current UCI track World Champion Hayden Godfrey (Omnium) races on a Coltello. The uber stiff aluminum frame is all business when it comes to delivering your power to the rear wheel and converting it to speed. I love the way this thing feels. It is amazing. It just kicks ass... plain and simple. The handling is perfect- I like to describe a good track bike as being one that you really steer with your ass and not your arms. By simply shifting your weight on the saddle, you can direct the bike up or down the track and use small amounts of body english to maneuver through the field.
Speciale Sprint- here's the steel version of the Coltello. Simply put- this is the track frame for riders who prefer steel but who don't want to compromise performance. It's the exact same geometry as the Coltello, but built with Reynolds 631 tubing. The night of my horrific crash on the track, I was riding a pre-production sample of this frameset. I can sincerely tell you that up until I nailed the railing and the lights went out, this was one of the best riding experiences I've had. And for good measure, the top tube has a small dent in it, but the frame is still totally straight. NICE! And for all you fixie purists looking to buy a Nagasawa, Reminton or Panasonic retired keirin frame... we've got something a little more affordable and certainly just as cool.
So there you have it! This 3rd and final installment of Virtual Tradeshow completes the line presentation for the upcoming product range. We feel pretty damned proud of our bikes and I'm sure you'll understand why...
Tim
So let us begin...
Steel Series:
Our steel bikes are our biggest selling category of bikes and we are extremely proud of them. I've been yammering about steel bikes for decades, literally, and I still believe in their incredible ride character. Sure, as a race dork, I like my super light carbon or scandium bikes too... but steel is and always will be my favorite frame material. We've put together one helluva line of steel bikes for you and I am confident you're gonna like these bikes!
Speciale Fixed- this is our best selling model and with good reason. It is such a joy to ride and it looks gorgeous. Sure, I'm biased, but I spend way more time on this bike than any of the other bikes I am blessed to get to ride (I AM spoiled). The new Metallic Yellow is the "wild" color, compared to the beautiful "mild" Shamrock Green second color option. Double butted steel frame with lugged steel fork, sealed bearing track hubs (flip/flop rear) and a geometry that is comfortable on the road and capable of being ridden on the track as well. The geometry is biased more towards road than track, allowing for less toe overlap when riding on the rough city streets. Overall though, for the money, this is one great bike.
Speciale Fixed LTD- What else can you say about this bike other than "WOW"? The same frame as the Speciale Fixed, but with a lot of upgraded and purdied-up parts on it; the Weinmann rims, the painted chain, the Sugino cranks and chainring with red ano' chainring bolts, the red spoke nipples, the red ano' seat collar and headset spacers, the Deda Velocista steel sprint bars, the MKS pedals and steel toeclips with leather toes... it's a phenomenal bike. And we haven't talked about the finish of the frame! The frame is an unpainted Nekkid (yes, that's the finish name) that is amazing to look at. Since it is unpainted, you get to see the raw steel and all of the character of the tubing, as well as the welds and the bronze at the braze-ons and rear dropouts. It's truly striking.
Speciale Commuter- another of our best selling bikes. The Commuter is another SS/Fixed bike, but with the addition of a rear derailleur hanger, shifter bosses and braze-ons for racks and fenders. It is ready to build up with anything you want and can handle the demands of some light touring or just dirt/ gravel road exploration. It's a sweet rig! The second color option is the Orange Creme color we released last Spring.
Speciale Randonneur- building directly off the platform of the Commuter frame, the Randonneur is designed to be a fully capable touring bike or totally tricked out commuting/ city bike. And, yes, before anybody else points it out- the saddle is too high on this bike. I know, I know, I know... That said, it's still a really beautiful bike. The MKS pedals and toeclips, the Dia-Compe bar end shifters and brake calipers and the included fenders create one mighty nice looking bike for the money. And, yes, it rides really, really well.
Speciale CX- what a sexy bike! Dang! The CX continues to be a very strong bike for us. The geometry is not as aggressive as the CXR and the BB is not as high, but it is still totally capable of getting out in the muck and mire of a cross race. It's also equally happy to be used as an all around city bike, winter foul weather road bike, or a sturdy light touring bike. It's everything you want and nothing you don't! (Sorry... I just had to use that line...)
Speciale (105)- here is a simple, classic, elegant road bike... just made sexier! It's a reasonably rational 105 component spec' with some very nice riding Ritchey wheels and Ritchey bar and stem. It's cool enough there, but when you throw in the over all look of the bike with the white tires, white cable housings and that insanely beautiful Ruby Red metallic paint... it's just too beautiful for normal comprehension. I routinely had to wipe the slobber off the bike during the show. Maybe we'll spec it with a bib next year...
Carbon Series:
Our carbon 3VC bikes kick ass. Don't just take my word for it, ask the riders of the Inferno Pro Cycling team (now Kenda Pro Cycling). They love their 3VC bikes and have been pulling off the wins aboard them. They're great riding frames- this, coming from a guy who is not a huge carbon junky. These frames have excellent stiffness in the rear stays, head tube and bottom bracket area. The curved stays produce an excellent feeling ride that hugs the ground and still manages to eat up road vibrations. Yes... the best of both worlds; "stiff yet compliant"...
3VC 105- the new Ruby Red paint on this carbon bike is unreal. The metallic paint on the carbon has so much depth and luster to it. It is almost 3D when you get it in the sunlight. The 105 parts package is an excellent blend of performance and affordability- it might just be the perfect first true race bike for the aspiring racer out there. Keep in mind that we use the same frame on all models, so the 105 version is the same as the frame ridden by the pros... there's no different carbon used, no heavier resins, no corner cutting... just the same exact frame that our professional riders are lucky enough to ride. You'll also notice that the bike pictured on the bottom here is a new 48cm size that we are bringing in for the 105 model only, for the time being. Like the rest of the Bellissima series, it uses narrower bars and a zero-offset seatpost.
3VC Ultegra SL- this is another one of those bikes that is just amazing. Let's face it, unless you're a pro rider or just have to have the best high end components, the performance of the new Ultegra SL parts is more than adequate. These parts are so close to being Dura Ace level, it'd be hard for me to personally tell the difference in a blind test... it's that good. Add in the amazing Chromium metallic paint that really compliments the Ice Grey finish of the parts and you have a stunning looking bike, but we kick it up a notch (BAM!) with the unreal good looks of the Ritchey Wet Black finish WCS bar, stem and seatpost. There will be Pro Tour riders next year riding on bikes that won't look this good... I promise.
3VC Dura Ace- built up with the all new Dura Ace 7900 component group and some of the sweetest aftermarket friendly parts, this is the racer's dream come true. If you're a Shimano fan, then this is the bike for you! The new Ritchey Wet White stem is a wonderful touch to complete the overall look of the bike as well. It's spec'ed ready to race and turn heads on your favorite group ride.
3VC Team Issue Red- here's the baddest of badass bikes! Full SRAM Red group, Zipp 404 wheels, Ritchey WCS carbon bar, stem and seatpost, Arione saddle and one of the sexiest frames in the industry... what else could you possibly want? If you insist on the very best without compromise, this is the bike you have been lookig for. It's a no-holds-barred badass and is more than happy to make your friends suffer like pigs on your next ride.
Framesets:
We have been slowly building back up the number and types of framesets that we offer. We offer both the CXR and 3VC Team Issue as framesets, as well as complete bikes. And we have the following two additional models available as well... because we believe in options- not limits! (Man, my Marketing mumbo-jumbo is flowing tonight!)
Coltello- this is a full-on race frameset with a very aggressive track geometry and very high bottom bracket for riding the steepest tracks in the world. So fast in fact, current UCI track World Champion Hayden Godfrey (Omnium) races on a Coltello. The uber stiff aluminum frame is all business when it comes to delivering your power to the rear wheel and converting it to speed. I love the way this thing feels. It is amazing. It just kicks ass... plain and simple. The handling is perfect- I like to describe a good track bike as being one that you really steer with your ass and not your arms. By simply shifting your weight on the saddle, you can direct the bike up or down the track and use small amounts of body english to maneuver through the field.
Speciale Sprint- here's the steel version of the Coltello. Simply put- this is the track frame for riders who prefer steel but who don't want to compromise performance. It's the exact same geometry as the Coltello, but built with Reynolds 631 tubing. The night of my horrific crash on the track, I was riding a pre-production sample of this frameset. I can sincerely tell you that up until I nailed the railing and the lights went out, this was one of the best riding experiences I've had. And for good measure, the top tube has a small dent in it, but the frame is still totally straight. NICE! And for all you fixie purists looking to buy a Nagasawa, Reminton or Panasonic retired keirin frame... we've got something a little more affordable and certainly just as cool.So there you have it! This 3rd and final installment of Virtual Tradeshow completes the line presentation for the upcoming product range. We feel pretty damned proud of our bikes and I'm sure you'll understand why...
Tim
Monday, October 06, 2008
Virtual Tradeshow- Interbike 2008- Part Two
As promised a few days ago, here is the second installment of Virtual Tradeshow. So, without further hyperbole or delay... the bikes...
MetroItalia series:
First a brief intro and explanation of the Caffe' Racer bikes- these are flat bar road bikes... of course... built around a road geometry for quicker handling and a more "sporty" feel to them. Where many other city bikes are built like mountain bikes with skinny tires- which is fine- these are made with wider road tires AND road geometry with a longer rear end to accommodate wider tires and racks/ fenders. They are excellent city/ commuting bikes, fun coffee getters and excellent "fitness" bikes for folks who don't want to ride a drop bar road bike or a MTB with knobbies on the road. "Caffe" is the Italian spelling for coffee and the bikes are themed on coffee; solo and doppio referring to single and double shots of espresso. They really are fun to ride- not that I'm biased at all...
Cafee Racer Solo in Crema- 9spd with 105 rear derailleur and an aluminum fork.MetroItalia series:
First a brief intro and explanation of the Caffe' Racer bikes- these are flat bar road bikes... of course... built around a road geometry for quicker handling and a more "sporty" feel to them. Where many other city bikes are built like mountain bikes with skinny tires- which is fine- these are made with wider road tires AND road geometry with a longer rear end to accommodate wider tires and racks/ fenders. They are excellent city/ commuting bikes, fun coffee getters and excellent "fitness" bikes for folks who don't want to ride a drop bar road bike or a MTB with knobbies on the road. "Caffe" is the Italian spelling for coffee and the bikes are themed on coffee; solo and doppio referring to single and double shots of espresso. They really are fun to ride- not that I'm biased at all...
Caffe Racer Doppio in Dark Roast (an almost black brown paint)- 10spd yumminess with Ultegra rear derailleur and a carbon fork. The picture does it NO justice at all. Promise...SoulVille Series:
What can I say about the SoulVille series that I haven't already said or hasn't been said elsewhere by people smarter than me? These bikes have been a runaway hit for us- relatively speaking. Considering the racing history of this brand, it came as a major shock to me when the original SoulVille model released last year at Interbike ended up being our second best selling bike. That really impressed me... so much so that we expanded the series significantly over the past 6 months.
SoulVille/SS- singlespeed/ fixed curved steel yumminess. Stripped of the fenders and given a dark and subtly sinister look, the SS is the black sheep of the SoulVille family (I know how it feels). This might just be the ultimate around town/ pub crawl bike. On top of it... it's a damned fun bike on the dirt too. I mean, 700c and 29" are nearly the same thing. This is one fun, FUN riding bike!
SoulVille 3spd- internally geared with SRAM 3 spd coaster brake hub. It's such a strikingly attractive bike with the pearl white paint... it's almost unfair to other bikes. And yes, the curved steel frame does ride extremely well.
The origin of the species- the SoulVille (7spd)... I had a lot of faith in this bike when we began the design process over a year ago. I believed in it, but I never would have picked it as number two for us... and it would've possibly been #1 if we could've gotten more of them sooner. SRAM 7spd internal gearing with coaster brake and all the style you could ever want or need. The new Mixte version is simply amazing as well- the curved split top tube is very elegant. The new Golden Green color is beautiful and it compliments the Gloss Black very nicely.
SoulVille 10spd- I honestly don't know if there is a bike in our line that received as much attention as this bike. VeloNews mentioned it, Dirt Rag mentioned it, Bicycling mentioned it, Bike Hugger covered it... it was in the Interbike Urban Legend cycling fashion show. My advice, if you want one... order early!
The new SRAM Double Tap flat bar shifters are amazingly smooth and the incredible good looks of the bike mean that you WILL get more attention. Just be prepared; might I recommend cool sunglasses and stylish shoes...
That's it for tonight. Next up with be the gigantic steel series of bikes and the ever-pretty carbon 3VC bikes. So stay tuned for more... ok...
Tim
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Virtual Tradeshow- Interbike 2008- Part One
Ok, since catalogs are hitting the streets and countless photos are out there already after Interbike, I'm going to introduce you to each model of the Masi line.
Performance Series:
Meet the new Alare- this is our least expensive model and you'd never guess it... available in Anodized White and Rosso Red.
Here's the Alare Bellissima- our first women's bike. Available in two colors- Rosa Pink and Anodized White (with mint colored decals). Available (for now) in sizes 47, 49 and 51cm. It's the first step in our development and growth of a women's line that we intend to grow and expand into other models over time.
Here's the newest version of the ever-popular Vincere- a full aluminum frame, carbon fork with alloy steerer tube and a Shimano 105 drivetrain. It's a helluva lot of bike for the dough.
Following in the draft of the Vincere is the Vincere Bellissima, another in the new women's series of bikes. Available in 47, 49 and 51cm in this beautiful Cielo Blue. Trust me- the picture does it NO justice.
This beauty is the new Gran Corsa. The aluminum and carbon frame combined with the 105/ Ultegra parts package make for an excellent performance package that is a great value. No really... it is. AND... the new Special Silver metallic paint looks SUPER sweet!
Competition Series:
The CXR for 08/09 gets a new graphic package and some sweet looking white cable housings that make this bike look totally PRO!
Oh so pretty- the Coltello Aero is now dressed up in the same Metallic Red paint that the Coltello track frame was painted in 3 years ago. Combined with the white touches, it's a sweet looking tri/ tt machine for those who like to go really, really fast.
There is now other bike in Masi' long history that is as revered as the Gran Criterium. For the past two years, we've been carefully reproducing the much loved graphics of the 70's and applying them to "vintage" Masi paint colors. The new Gran Criterium is the current iteration of that philosophy. With a SRAM Rival component package and a superlight aluminum/ carbon frame... it's a modern classic.
More to follow later- still all the new steel bikes to show off, as well s the MetroItalia city bikes, the growing SoulVille family and the gorgeous 3VC carbon bikes.
Tim
Performance Series:
Meet the new Alare- this is our least expensive model and you'd never guess it... available in Anodized White and Rosso Red.
Here's the Alare Bellissima- our first women's bike. Available in two colors- Rosa Pink and Anodized White (with mint colored decals). Available (for now) in sizes 47, 49 and 51cm. It's the first step in our development and growth of a women's line that we intend to grow and expand into other models over time.
Here's the newest version of the ever-popular Vincere- a full aluminum frame, carbon fork with alloy steerer tube and a Shimano 105 drivetrain. It's a helluva lot of bike for the dough.
Following in the draft of the Vincere is the Vincere Bellissima, another in the new women's series of bikes. Available in 47, 49 and 51cm in this beautiful Cielo Blue. Trust me- the picture does it NO justice.
This beauty is the new Gran Corsa. The aluminum and carbon frame combined with the 105/ Ultegra parts package make for an excellent performance package that is a great value. No really... it is. AND... the new Special Silver metallic paint looks SUPER sweet!Competition Series:
The CXR for 08/09 gets a new graphic package and some sweet looking white cable housings that make this bike look totally PRO!
Oh so pretty- the Coltello Aero is now dressed up in the same Metallic Red paint that the Coltello track frame was painted in 3 years ago. Combined with the white touches, it's a sweet looking tri/ tt machine for those who like to go really, really fast.
There is now other bike in Masi' long history that is as revered as the Gran Criterium. For the past two years, we've been carefully reproducing the much loved graphics of the 70's and applying them to "vintage" Masi paint colors. The new Gran Criterium is the current iteration of that philosophy. With a SRAM Rival component package and a superlight aluminum/ carbon frame... it's a modern classic.
More to follow later- still all the new steel bikes to show off, as well s the MetroItalia city bikes, the growing SoulVille family and the gorgeous 3VC carbon bikes.
Tim
Monday, September 29, 2008
Interbike Pics- Part One
Here are a few pics to get you started- Dirt Demo was a huge success for us, by our very modest terms. All told, we had a fleet of 40 demo bikes and two tents crammed with bikes. It was pretty cool- even if we were tight for space.
The staging area for the annual Lake Mead "Hangover Ride", aka "Wayne Stetina's chance to whip the snot out of the bike industry".
Me with the San Diego (pas and present) Posse; Mark Neimic (head of Mavic Neutral Support), me and Dan Large (Technical Support Manager for Campagnolo USA).
Three of the Spokesmen on one ride... unreal; me (looking fatter than ever), David Bernstein (of Fredcast fame) and Carlton Reid (editor Bike Biz).
My good friend Paul- "Pee Pee"- and his picture in our catalog. Paul was our model for the catalog shoot of the new SoulVille 10spd.
The booth; bikes spilling out all over the place and very little shade. Home away from home for a few days... dusty and windy but fun.
More to come- I promise.
Tim
The staging area for the annual Lake Mead "Hangover Ride", aka "Wayne Stetina's chance to whip the snot out of the bike industry".
Me with the San Diego (pas and present) Posse; Mark Neimic (head of Mavic Neutral Support), me and Dan Large (Technical Support Manager for Campagnolo USA).
Three of the Spokesmen on one ride... unreal; me (looking fatter than ever), David Bernstein (of Fredcast fame) and Carlton Reid (editor Bike Biz).
My good friend Paul- "Pee Pee"- and his picture in our catalog. Paul was our model for the catalog shoot of the new SoulVille 10spd.
The booth; bikes spilling out all over the place and very little shade. Home away from home for a few days... dusty and windy but fun.
More to come- I promise.
Tim
Thanks Bicycling!
Got a little Interbike show love from the fine folks over at Bicycling Magazine!
Thing is... they're totally right!
Tim
Thing is... they're totally right!
Tim
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Let's get something straight...
Yep- it's busy. Super busy. WAY super busy. Interbike starts in just a few days for us- hopping in the trucks and driving to Vegas early Sunday morning and heading out to Dirt Demo. We should be there mid to late afternoon again so we can set up for Demo and then head back into the city for the show on Tuesday night. Needless to say, as is always the case with Interbike, we're scrambling to get things done in time for the show and to make the booth as sexy as possible. If you're attending Dirt Demo this year, make sure you stop by our Demo booth; I'm bringing a pretty big fleet of bikes to the event this year. 3VC 105, Speciale 105, Speciale Fixed, SoulVille 3spd Mixte, SoulVille SS, Vincere and two new models that I'll leave as a little "secret" until then. All together, it's about 39 bikes. So come ride some beautiful new bikes... somebody should, since I might not be able to.
After losing my phone in Montreal, I had to buy a new phone... but I had to pay full retail since I had just renewed my contract this summer and do not qualify for any discounted upgrades. My "old" phone (3.5 months) was slightly less expensive at full price than either a Blackberry or iPhone... so I got the iPhone. I won't wax poetic about it; I like the phone so far and it is easy to geek out on the technology in the little thing, but I'm personally averse to the iHype that goes along with it. Last time I checked, Steve Jobs hasn't cured cancer, nor has he stopped world hunger or war... so he's just a terribly smart man who has created one of the slickest technology brands ever... but he's no messiah. There... I'm done. That said, one of the main reasons I got the phone is to finally be able to use Social Media on the go. Quick blog posts whenever I feel like it. Uploading photos when I am away from my laptop. It's a great tool for those things and I look forward to seeing just how well it works. BUT... all the pictures I had on the old phone are now gone for good. I can't tell you how much that hurts.
Speaking of hurting... this is my current nighttime companion;
It's supposed to help straighten out my right arm, since I am still unable to straighten it completely. The device has an adjustable spring tension that forces the arm to try and straighten while I sleep... if I sleep. Some nights the brace feels fine and I sleep normally and other nights I sleep poorly until I rip the thing off of my arm. It's pretty medieval looking and seems like something that would've been used during the Spanish Inquisition.
Another member of the pain family is this little white piece of something- possibly shredded thumb nail or sliver of paint from the velodrome boards- that I pulled out of my thumbnail bed this evening.
I first saw this ?? when I lost the old thumbnail. It was just a tiny spec of black in the middle of the fleshy red of my thumbnail bed. Tonight, during my nightly cleaning of the finger, I decided to see if I could grip it with my tweezers- just to see if it was attached or was simply a splinter. Again, all I could see was a tiny spec the size of the tip of a needle. Whatever it is, it's paper thin, but about 4 x 8mm possibly... so when I drug the piece out of my nail bed, it was a bit "surprising" to say the least. AND the finger bled like crazy for a few minutes. It was a bit more than I bargained for, but the bleeding stopped and I'm typing again.
The next few days are seriously chaotic as we put the final touches on many, many things before the show. Posting is likely to suffer until I get to Vegas... but with the iPhone, maybe posting won't drop off at all... you just never know. And with the iPhone during the show, there is no telling who and what I might be able to snap a quick pic of...
Stay tuned people.
Tim
After losing my phone in Montreal, I had to buy a new phone... but I had to pay full retail since I had just renewed my contract this summer and do not qualify for any discounted upgrades. My "old" phone (3.5 months) was slightly less expensive at full price than either a Blackberry or iPhone... so I got the iPhone. I won't wax poetic about it; I like the phone so far and it is easy to geek out on the technology in the little thing, but I'm personally averse to the iHype that goes along with it. Last time I checked, Steve Jobs hasn't cured cancer, nor has he stopped world hunger or war... so he's just a terribly smart man who has created one of the slickest technology brands ever... but he's no messiah. There... I'm done. That said, one of the main reasons I got the phone is to finally be able to use Social Media on the go. Quick blog posts whenever I feel like it. Uploading photos when I am away from my laptop. It's a great tool for those things and I look forward to seeing just how well it works. BUT... all the pictures I had on the old phone are now gone for good. I can't tell you how much that hurts.
Speaking of hurting... this is my current nighttime companion;
It's supposed to help straighten out my right arm, since I am still unable to straighten it completely. The device has an adjustable spring tension that forces the arm to try and straighten while I sleep... if I sleep. Some nights the brace feels fine and I sleep normally and other nights I sleep poorly until I rip the thing off of my arm. It's pretty medieval looking and seems like something that would've been used during the Spanish Inquisition.Another member of the pain family is this little white piece of something- possibly shredded thumb nail or sliver of paint from the velodrome boards- that I pulled out of my thumbnail bed this evening.
I first saw this ?? when I lost the old thumbnail. It was just a tiny spec of black in the middle of the fleshy red of my thumbnail bed. Tonight, during my nightly cleaning of the finger, I decided to see if I could grip it with my tweezers- just to see if it was attached or was simply a splinter. Again, all I could see was a tiny spec the size of the tip of a needle. Whatever it is, it's paper thin, but about 4 x 8mm possibly... so when I drug the piece out of my nail bed, it was a bit "surprising" to say the least. AND the finger bled like crazy for a few minutes. It was a bit more than I bargained for, but the bleeding stopped and I'm typing again.
The next few days are seriously chaotic as we put the final touches on many, many things before the show. Posting is likely to suffer until I get to Vegas... but with the iPhone, maybe posting won't drop off at all... you just never know. And with the iPhone during the show, there is no telling who and what I might be able to snap a quick pic of...
Stay tuned people.
Tim
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
It's like dejavu all over again...
Busy. Still.
Leaving for Montreal on Saturday for the Canadian industry tradeshow. Eurobike is this week, but I'm not there... obviously. Looking forward to being back in Montreal- it's been two years since I was there and it is one of my favorite cities I've visited so far. Can't decide if I should take a geared bike or my Speciale Fixed. Have considered taking one of my carbon bikes, but It might be nice to reign myself in and just take the Fixed and stay off the Mont this trip (though the view is unreal). The view along the St. Lawrence river is incredible too and the bike path that runs along the river meanders for many miles without a single stoplight and barely anybody else to contend with. It's pretty much heaven.
Interbike will be directly on the heels of Montreal and somewhere in the middle of all of that, we have to finalize what we're doing for our Spring release bikes (mostly color changes for a few models and a tiny few "enhancements").
Yeah, I know- broken record.
The things we do to keep making more and better bikes for you... you folks are a tough crowd!
Tim
Leaving for Montreal on Saturday for the Canadian industry tradeshow. Eurobike is this week, but I'm not there... obviously. Looking forward to being back in Montreal- it's been two years since I was there and it is one of my favorite cities I've visited so far. Can't decide if I should take a geared bike or my Speciale Fixed. Have considered taking one of my carbon bikes, but It might be nice to reign myself in and just take the Fixed and stay off the Mont this trip (though the view is unreal). The view along the St. Lawrence river is incredible too and the bike path that runs along the river meanders for many miles without a single stoplight and barely anybody else to contend with. It's pretty much heaven.
Interbike will be directly on the heels of Montreal and somewhere in the middle of all of that, we have to finalize what we're doing for our Spring release bikes (mostly color changes for a few models and a tiny few "enhancements").
Yeah, I know- broken record.
The things we do to keep making more and better bikes for you... you folks are a tough crowd!
Tim
Monday, December 03, 2007
Spokesmen VIDEO podcast- #24!
THIS is so freaking cool! The lost episode of the Spokesmen Podcast, live and in video from Interbike is now available.
Just remember the expression "face for radio"... please... I'm sensitive.
Tim
Just remember the expression "face for radio"... please... I'm sensitive.
Tim
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Progress...
Today, the winds mellowed quite a bit and the air crews were able to attack the raging fires. Things improved dramatically and many people were able to return to their homes, or at least assess the damage and begin planning to rebuild. The last news I got, the fires near Jill Hamilton's home were backing away and were getting some small level of containment. By the time I got home tonight, the skies were not as thick with smoke and the air didn't smell like a campfire. I might even sleep with the windows open tonight to get some "fresh" air. Still, the fire danger is very high and things are nowhere near being over, but we're making progress and that's really all I ask. Thanks have to be given again to the amazing work being done by all of the firefighters in the region right now- their efforts have been greater than herculean... heroic doesn't even begin to cover it.
Today, I had the good fortune of having lunch with Rich Kelly from Interbike. Rich lives pretty close to the Masi/ Haro offices and due to the fires, has been at home this week and not commuting to the offices for Interbike's staff. Rich is a great guy and we've had many great conversations about cycling and bicycles over the past couple years. He's also becoming more and more of a "new media" geek like me, so we talked about that today as well. It's always great to get the chance to ramble on and on, the way I do, with somebody who is equally passionate about cycling. We had a great lunch and greater conversation. Thanks again for lunch Rich- I thoroughly enjoyed the company and conversation.
Again, like I have the past few nights, I got out on the Fixed and got another little leg workout. For as much as I love all the bikes I have, I have to confess that my Fixed is my current favorite. It might have something to do with the fact I only got to do one track race again this year and so my legs are simply enjoying that sensation of constant spinning. Maybe, I dunno what it is, but I have been having a super time. The 46x16 gear and 167.5 crankarms are a blast to spin. I did the same loop as last night, with another 3 quick laps around Shelter Island. I've been doing a few hard sprints on the course, getting the legs up to speed and blowing out the cylinders. It'd be pretty sweet to actually come out of this winter with something that resembles fitness and leg speed. In recent years, I've returned to the old (bad) habit of simply pushing big gears all winter long to develop power. Add in the gym and you have a scenario where I have a ton of power, but no leg speed to get the gear up to speed anymore. I'm trying to once again strike that delicate balance of having both... so we'll see if a winter of fixed gear riding on a smaller-than-usual-for-me gear does the job. It can't hurt anyway...
Lastly, I've recently rediscovered my love for Anchor Steam. I came across some recently, after not having seen any for what seems years. I have to say, I didn't remember it tasting quite this good and I am sure glad I "found" it again. It gets the Masiguy Seal of Approval- with two healthy thumbs up!
Tim
Today, I had the good fortune of having lunch with Rich Kelly from Interbike. Rich lives pretty close to the Masi/ Haro offices and due to the fires, has been at home this week and not commuting to the offices for Interbike's staff. Rich is a great guy and we've had many great conversations about cycling and bicycles over the past couple years. He's also becoming more and more of a "new media" geek like me, so we talked about that today as well. It's always great to get the chance to ramble on and on, the way I do, with somebody who is equally passionate about cycling. We had a great lunch and greater conversation. Thanks again for lunch Rich- I thoroughly enjoyed the company and conversation.
Again, like I have the past few nights, I got out on the Fixed and got another little leg workout. For as much as I love all the bikes I have, I have to confess that my Fixed is my current favorite. It might have something to do with the fact I only got to do one track race again this year and so my legs are simply enjoying that sensation of constant spinning. Maybe, I dunno what it is, but I have been having a super time. The 46x16 gear and 167.5 crankarms are a blast to spin. I did the same loop as last night, with another 3 quick laps around Shelter Island. I've been doing a few hard sprints on the course, getting the legs up to speed and blowing out the cylinders. It'd be pretty sweet to actually come out of this winter with something that resembles fitness and leg speed. In recent years, I've returned to the old (bad) habit of simply pushing big gears all winter long to develop power. Add in the gym and you have a scenario where I have a ton of power, but no leg speed to get the gear up to speed anymore. I'm trying to once again strike that delicate balance of having both... so we'll see if a winter of fixed gear riding on a smaller-than-usual-for-me gear does the job. It can't hurt anyway...
Lastly, I've recently rediscovered my love for Anchor Steam. I came across some recently, after not having seen any for what seems years. I have to say, I didn't remember it tasting quite this good and I am sure glad I "found" it again. It gets the Masiguy Seal of Approval- with two healthy thumbs up!
Tim
Monday, October 01, 2007
My team is cooler than your team...
Not only was Interbike a fantastic experience for the Masi brand, but it was pretty darned cool for the A&F team as well.
Thursday night saw the finale of the USA Crits series, which the team was leading the Team Overall, Under 25 category (Brandon Gavic), Most Laps Lead (Mark Hekman) and had at least a spot on the final Individual Overall podium sewn up (Mark Hekman). Poor Mark had missed the last race/s due to his broken foot from his terrible crash at Elite Nationals. Still, his points going into the final all but secured him a spot on the final podium.
In an effort to protect their leads in the various categories, the boys came to the race with a strong squad; Brandon Gavic, Rich Harper, Marco Aledia, Bennet van der Genugten, Jaime Gandara and Timmy Swain. The six were primed and ready to throw down on the technical course that saw many, many crashes throughout the night- including the women's(*) and Industry Cup races earlier in the evening.
The race was action packed and I had a nice front row seat from within the confines of the VIP area... that's how I roll. Even though he was upset to not be racing, Mark made the most of the evening...
The "famous" Umbrella Girls were on hand to escort the riders to the start line as they received their call-ups. I don't think I've ever seen Rich Harper with a bigger smile... ever.
The race course was lined with rabid fans and lots of curious onlookers from the Mandalay Bay hotel/ casino, since the race was held in the parking lot of the casino. To me, the course looked like a bloodbath in the making, though the guys later said that it was actually quite a fun course.
The race began at a blistering pace and then only got faster after prime after prime was offered up- including the infamous $5000 prime offered by Rock & Republic a couple laps from the finish. The primes were flying throughout the 60+ lap race, so the pace remained high. Plus, all of the teams wanted the win in Vegas. It may have been the end of the season and there was plenty of showboating going on, but it was clear that many of the riders were more than a little motivated for the win.
The night was a little hectic and first Tim Swain had a rider put his pedal in one of his wheels and ripped a few spokes out of the carbon rim... which is a really bad sound. Then Jaime Gandara went down in a larger pile up and the officials weren't so sure they were going to let him have his free lap to get back in. About 5-6 laps later, he was finally back in the race. On the final lap, BVDG was involved in a little spill and finished the race with less than a complete jersey.
Still, the race was a great show for the fans. In the closing laps, Kelly Benefits put on a show and controlled the closing of the race. The team put at least 5 guys on the front and kept the pace ramped up to beyond ludicrous speed and straight to plaid (it's a Spaceballs joke... ). Nobody got away from them and really, nobody tried. They took control of the front of the field and had things wrapped up... or so they thought, until Ivan Dominguez pulled off one of his trademarked incredible sprints. You have to give it to him for making the most of the race because the rest of the Toyota-United team seemed to be asleep the whole race. Ivan rode the Kelly team to the line with a brilliant sprint.
In the end, Brandon Gavic took 15th, Harpoon was 21st, Timmy was 30th, Jaime was 32nd and MA was 43rd. BVDG was out of the top 75 thanks to that last lap spill... but he's got a national title this year, so he's gonna be ok.
With Brandon's efforts on the night, which were very impressive for such a little guy in a crit full of some very big dudes, he took the overall U25 title for the series.
Mark ended up still taking the most laps lead category, as well as still maintaining 3rd overall in the individual category.
Thanks to some questionable points tallying, the team ended up second in the overall teams classification behind AEG. AEG rode very well through the series and would be a worthy winner of the title, were it not for some odd irregularities in the way the series dealt with the A&F team. That said, with no hard feelings, AEG did a great job and Frank Travieso was a great overall series winner.
All in all, not a bad night for the team and certainly a great series. You can bet that the team will show up for the series even more motivated next year and they will OWN the podiums all along the way.
To the team; you know I love ya already, but one more congratulations won't hurt... so CONGRATULATIONS!
Tim
* An additional congratulations has to go to Carrie Cash from Team Revolution. Team Revolution is a women's team I have had the pleasure to work with. They are based out of St. Louis and are an amazing group of hard riding women. Carrie, on a borrowed Masi demo bike managed to finish 11th in the women's pro race without a single teammate to work with her. Talk about toughing it out and making the most of the night! Way to go Carrie- I'm proud to have been able to provide you (and the team) with bikes this year!
Thursday night saw the finale of the USA Crits series, which the team was leading the Team Overall, Under 25 category (Brandon Gavic), Most Laps Lead (Mark Hekman) and had at least a spot on the final Individual Overall podium sewn up (Mark Hekman). Poor Mark had missed the last race/s due to his broken foot from his terrible crash at Elite Nationals. Still, his points going into the final all but secured him a spot on the final podium.
In an effort to protect their leads in the various categories, the boys came to the race with a strong squad; Brandon Gavic, Rich Harper, Marco Aledia, Bennet van der Genugten, Jaime Gandara and Timmy Swain. The six were primed and ready to throw down on the technical course that saw many, many crashes throughout the night- including the women's(*) and Industry Cup races earlier in the evening.
The race was action packed and I had a nice front row seat from within the confines of the VIP area... that's how I roll. Even though he was upset to not be racing, Mark made the most of the evening...
The "famous" Umbrella Girls were on hand to escort the riders to the start line as they received their call-ups. I don't think I've ever seen Rich Harper with a bigger smile... ever.
The race course was lined with rabid fans and lots of curious onlookers from the Mandalay Bay hotel/ casino, since the race was held in the parking lot of the casino. To me, the course looked like a bloodbath in the making, though the guys later said that it was actually quite a fun course.
The race began at a blistering pace and then only got faster after prime after prime was offered up- including the infamous $5000 prime offered by Rock & Republic a couple laps from the finish. The primes were flying throughout the 60+ lap race, so the pace remained high. Plus, all of the teams wanted the win in Vegas. It may have been the end of the season and there was plenty of showboating going on, but it was clear that many of the riders were more than a little motivated for the win.The night was a little hectic and first Tim Swain had a rider put his pedal in one of his wheels and ripped a few spokes out of the carbon rim... which is a really bad sound. Then Jaime Gandara went down in a larger pile up and the officials weren't so sure they were going to let him have his free lap to get back in. About 5-6 laps later, he was finally back in the race. On the final lap, BVDG was involved in a little spill and finished the race with less than a complete jersey.
Still, the race was a great show for the fans. In the closing laps, Kelly Benefits put on a show and controlled the closing of the race. The team put at least 5 guys on the front and kept the pace ramped up to beyond ludicrous speed and straight to plaid (it's a Spaceballs joke... ). Nobody got away from them and really, nobody tried. They took control of the front of the field and had things wrapped up... or so they thought, until Ivan Dominguez pulled off one of his trademarked incredible sprints. You have to give it to him for making the most of the race because the rest of the Toyota-United team seemed to be asleep the whole race. Ivan rode the Kelly team to the line with a brilliant sprint.In the end, Brandon Gavic took 15th, Harpoon was 21st, Timmy was 30th, Jaime was 32nd and MA was 43rd. BVDG was out of the top 75 thanks to that last lap spill... but he's got a national title this year, so he's gonna be ok.
With Brandon's efforts on the night, which were very impressive for such a little guy in a crit full of some very big dudes, he took the overall U25 title for the series.
Mark ended up still taking the most laps lead category, as well as still maintaining 3rd overall in the individual category.
Thanks to some questionable points tallying, the team ended up second in the overall teams classification behind AEG. AEG rode very well through the series and would be a worthy winner of the title, were it not for some odd irregularities in the way the series dealt with the A&F team. That said, with no hard feelings, AEG did a great job and Frank Travieso was a great overall series winner.All in all, not a bad night for the team and certainly a great series. You can bet that the team will show up for the series even more motivated next year and they will OWN the podiums all along the way.
To the team; you know I love ya already, but one more congratulations won't hurt... so CONGRATULATIONS!
Tim
* An additional congratulations has to go to Carrie Cash from Team Revolution. Team Revolution is a women's team I have had the pleasure to work with. They are based out of St. Louis and are an amazing group of hard riding women. Carrie, on a borrowed Masi demo bike managed to finish 11th in the women's pro race without a single teammate to work with her. Talk about toughing it out and making the most of the night! Way to go Carrie- I'm proud to have been able to provide you (and the team) with bikes this year!
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Home!
Well, I rolled in from Vegas at 2:00AM this morning. Got myself a couple hours of sleep and now I'm trying to take stock of all my photos, business cards I collected and gathering my thoughts... and there are lots of each.
This was the best Interbike show experience I think I've ever had. Being on a winning team always makes things better, but the overall response to the line and all of the major changes we made to the bikes were received far better than I dreamed. I am over the moon over how the bikes were talked about and the number of shops, industry reps, other industry company folks and other bike company people who walked in to the booth to look at the line and said, "WOW!" Though I am the "face/ voice" of the Masi brand, a lot of the credit goes to the folks behind the scenes who help to make the bikes possible- Wayne Doran (Product Manager), Pat Crosby (Haro MTB Product Manager who has helped with some design work), Rick Ortiz (graphic artist and catalog designer) and Pete Demos (Artistic Director). Beyond that, it must be further recognized that the efforts of former Senior Product Development Manager, Mike Varley, paved the way for many of the bikes in the line. I have been very lucky to get to be responsible for stewarding the rebirth of one of the very best names in cycling history. The product line now represents the strongest offering in many years. To say that I am pleased with the bikes and the new catalog would be an understatement. Though I am always very enthusiastic about the brand, I sincerely believe that this is the very best range of product we've ever produced and that we are on the verge of becoming one of those brands that people in and out of the industry will be talking about and listening to.
So, yes, it was a great Interbike and I am very happy. That said, I'm also very tired and need a nap! I'll be following up with many more thoughts, tales and tons of pictures.
Thank you for your patience with the spotty posting the past few months during this massive relaunch of the brand- it is nothing short of a miracle that we were able to pull it all off in such an amazingly short period of time. I am more confident than ever that you will like the new product range. The new/ revised/ updated website will be up very soon, but the new catalog is already in print and available... so go to the website and get one ordered.
Ok, time for a little sleep.
Tim
PS- I forgot to mention; check the Monday edition of the Boston Globe, in the Business section, for an article on commuting bicycles. Ross Kerber of the Globe came out to Dirt Demo and rode the new SoulVille and also rode the Hangover/ Lake Mead ride on a new Gran Criterium. There might just be a picture of the SoulVille in the article... so keep your eyes peeled.
This was the best Interbike show experience I think I've ever had. Being on a winning team always makes things better, but the overall response to the line and all of the major changes we made to the bikes were received far better than I dreamed. I am over the moon over how the bikes were talked about and the number of shops, industry reps, other industry company folks and other bike company people who walked in to the booth to look at the line and said, "WOW!" Though I am the "face/ voice" of the Masi brand, a lot of the credit goes to the folks behind the scenes who help to make the bikes possible- Wayne Doran (Product Manager), Pat Crosby (Haro MTB Product Manager who has helped with some design work), Rick Ortiz (graphic artist and catalog designer) and Pete Demos (Artistic Director). Beyond that, it must be further recognized that the efforts of former Senior Product Development Manager, Mike Varley, paved the way for many of the bikes in the line. I have been very lucky to get to be responsible for stewarding the rebirth of one of the very best names in cycling history. The product line now represents the strongest offering in many years. To say that I am pleased with the bikes and the new catalog would be an understatement. Though I am always very enthusiastic about the brand, I sincerely believe that this is the very best range of product we've ever produced and that we are on the verge of becoming one of those brands that people in and out of the industry will be talking about and listening to.
So, yes, it was a great Interbike and I am very happy. That said, I'm also very tired and need a nap! I'll be following up with many more thoughts, tales and tons of pictures.Thank you for your patience with the spotty posting the past few months during this massive relaunch of the brand- it is nothing short of a miracle that we were able to pull it all off in such an amazingly short period of time. I am more confident than ever that you will like the new product range. The new/ revised/ updated website will be up very soon, but the new catalog is already in print and available... so go to the website and get one ordered.
Ok, time for a little sleep.
Tim
PS- I forgot to mention; check the Monday edition of the Boston Globe, in the Business section, for an article on commuting bicycles. Ross Kerber of the Globe came out to Dirt Demo and rode the new SoulVille and also rode the Hangover/ Lake Mead ride on a new Gran Criterium. There might just be a picture of the SoulVille in the article... so keep your eyes peeled.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
We're here!
I still have to download some photos off the camera, but we're here in Boulder City. Got things mostly set up and ready to go tomorrow. Gotta get a few things at the store and then I'll be ready to go...
... and I got a short ride in already! Took a short spin with Jill Hamilton down to Lake Mead (which is lower than it has been in 40-50 years). It's been a gorgeous day here and the weather is nice... should be sunny and clear the entire time.
Ok, now it's time to go get some dinner and then hang out by the pool and have a beer and a cigar!
Tomorrow is the beginning of the fun!
Tim
... and I got a short ride in already! Took a short spin with Jill Hamilton down to Lake Mead (which is lower than it has been in 40-50 years). It's been a gorgeous day here and the weather is nice... should be sunny and clear the entire time.
Ok, now it's time to go get some dinner and then hang out by the pool and have a beer and a cigar!
Tomorrow is the beginning of the fun!
Tim
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Sin City, here I come!
Well, at the crack of dawn tomorrow, I'll be loading up and heading off to Lost Wages. Hopefully I can manage to keep my wallet either in my pocket or in my hotel room as much as possible.
Festivities begin with two days of demo out at Bootleg Canyon. Then it is off to the neon city for three days of inside exhibition. I love the two days at Dirt Demo and am really looking forward to getting the responses to those first few rides people have on the new SoulVille, Caffe Racer Doppio, 3VC Ultegra and the Gran Criterium... I'm obviously hoping for good things. I know I was grinning when I rode each of those bikes, so I am hoping to see a lot more smiles in the next few days.
The indoor "tradeshow" is the part that is the most routine, if you will. It's the regular "tradeshow" that we all know and love. However, over the past few years (though it's been developing for longer) the show has begun to lose some of its soul. It's become more of a time to shake hands with existing customers, most of whom have already seen the products and have orders for them, rather than an unveiling of anything new. Plus, with folks like Trek and Specialized both doing private shows for their retailers months ago and opting to have a very minimal presence at the show, things have just felt a bit "flat". However, there is something about this year that just feels different...
For one, my new catalog was just delivered yesterday. Normally it is out a couple months prior to the show and the dealers have had a chance to look it over and place their orders before seeing the product in person in Vegas. This year though, they get their catalog when they see the product for the first time (aside from the ones who read this blog or have been visited by a sales rep). To me, that is exciting. I live for this stuff! I live and breathe this product 24/7, so this is a big week coming up for me. Plus, this year, we get to watch as Las Vegas hosts the final of the US Crit series (currently lead by Mark Hekman of MY A&F/ Pro Development Team). AND... there will be an Industry Cup race that same night. My plans had been to do the race, but having not touched a bike in more than two weeks (and a very steep entry fee), it ain't looking so likely. BUT... I will definitely be there to watch the A&F boys lay the hurt to the field in the series finale and then stand there screaming for them when they collect the numerous prizes they are destined for. Needless to say, I'll be beaming like a proud papa when MY boys stand on that podium. It'll be a great night, indeed.
On top of that, something very intangible feels different about this year. Maybe it is because we (Masi/ Haro) are doing something radically different for our booths this year. Maybe it is the new "energy" in the company itself and maybe it is just an underlying current of change and optimism that seems to be bubbling around the biz. Regardless, I can honestly say that I haven't felt this excited about the actual "show" in many years. Looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Looking forward to finding Rich Kelly from Interbike Times and going for a pre-show stroll around the exhibit hall and geeking out over cool shtuff. I can't wait to see what is new and who is coming out with the next must-have item/s (aside from me)... and now I hear that SRAM is buying Zipp and now has the wheel segment of their world domination in place. I get to be a judge in a video contest and I will hopefully get out of the booth long enough to be in a live podcast/ videocast of the Spokesmen. AND... I might even find a way to say something intelligent to Eddy Merckx for a change... rather than just staring slack-jawed at him as he signs my poster (though that is still very unlikely). I'm hoping that I get a chance to hang out with Bob Roll for a few minutes again this year- last year was simply a riot. He's the same dude in person as he is on TV... trust me. AND... I hope to actually get out each day I can and go for a ride. It's harder to ride once we get into the city, but the first days in the desert are great riding around Lake Mead. It's become a ritual for me and I hope to do it again this year and ride down to the Hoover Dam and look at the breathtaking views- though with my current state of being out of shape, riding back up the long climb will be even more "breathtaking".
So, Vegas- here I come! Brace yourself because I'm gonna be ready to have a good time with all my friends!
Today, in the midst of all my packing and nervous energy, I stopped long enough to get out and go for a short one hour ride around the town (San Diego). I have not ridden a bike in more than two weeks and have probably only ridden about 5-6 times in total over the past month or so. Needless to say, an hour felt pretty long but was well worth the sweat.
Today was a beautiful stormy day. This morning, the rain was coming down sideways and in buckets with very gusty winds as a Pacific storm blew through. I had to go in to the office this morning for a moment and at times, the rain was so hard that I could barely see past my hood! It doesn't happen here often and it didn't last long, but we do actually get rain from time to time in our semi-arid desert. The best part about a rain here is that the sky is freakishly clear and blue afterwards. It was, though cooler and windy, a gorgeous day today.
A view of our little commercial fishing fleet harbor.
The wind was pretty heavy, so the water on the bay was pretty choppy.
The San Diego skyline, as seen from the fishing fleet harbor...
I don't know if these are crab or lobster traps, but the entire pier was covered in them.
It felt great to get out, even if it hurt more than it should have.
Festivities begin with two days of demo out at Bootleg Canyon. Then it is off to the neon city for three days of inside exhibition. I love the two days at Dirt Demo and am really looking forward to getting the responses to those first few rides people have on the new SoulVille, Caffe Racer Doppio, 3VC Ultegra and the Gran Criterium... I'm obviously hoping for good things. I know I was grinning when I rode each of those bikes, so I am hoping to see a lot more smiles in the next few days.
The indoor "tradeshow" is the part that is the most routine, if you will. It's the regular "tradeshow" that we all know and love. However, over the past few years (though it's been developing for longer) the show has begun to lose some of its soul. It's become more of a time to shake hands with existing customers, most of whom have already seen the products and have orders for them, rather than an unveiling of anything new. Plus, with folks like Trek and Specialized both doing private shows for their retailers months ago and opting to have a very minimal presence at the show, things have just felt a bit "flat". However, there is something about this year that just feels different...
For one, my new catalog was just delivered yesterday. Normally it is out a couple months prior to the show and the dealers have had a chance to look it over and place their orders before seeing the product in person in Vegas. This year though, they get their catalog when they see the product for the first time (aside from the ones who read this blog or have been visited by a sales rep). To me, that is exciting. I live for this stuff! I live and breathe this product 24/7, so this is a big week coming up for me. Plus, this year, we get to watch as Las Vegas hosts the final of the US Crit series (currently lead by Mark Hekman of MY A&F/ Pro Development Team). AND... there will be an Industry Cup race that same night. My plans had been to do the race, but having not touched a bike in more than two weeks (and a very steep entry fee), it ain't looking so likely. BUT... I will definitely be there to watch the A&F boys lay the hurt to the field in the series finale and then stand there screaming for them when they collect the numerous prizes they are destined for. Needless to say, I'll be beaming like a proud papa when MY boys stand on that podium. It'll be a great night, indeed.
On top of that, something very intangible feels different about this year. Maybe it is because we (Masi/ Haro) are doing something radically different for our booths this year. Maybe it is the new "energy" in the company itself and maybe it is just an underlying current of change and optimism that seems to be bubbling around the biz. Regardless, I can honestly say that I haven't felt this excited about the actual "show" in many years. Looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Looking forward to finding Rich Kelly from Interbike Times and going for a pre-show stroll around the exhibit hall and geeking out over cool shtuff. I can't wait to see what is new and who is coming out with the next must-have item/s (aside from me)... and now I hear that SRAM is buying Zipp and now has the wheel segment of their world domination in place. I get to be a judge in a video contest and I will hopefully get out of the booth long enough to be in a live podcast/ videocast of the Spokesmen. AND... I might even find a way to say something intelligent to Eddy Merckx for a change... rather than just staring slack-jawed at him as he signs my poster (though that is still very unlikely). I'm hoping that I get a chance to hang out with Bob Roll for a few minutes again this year- last year was simply a riot. He's the same dude in person as he is on TV... trust me. AND... I hope to actually get out each day I can and go for a ride. It's harder to ride once we get into the city, but the first days in the desert are great riding around Lake Mead. It's become a ritual for me and I hope to do it again this year and ride down to the Hoover Dam and look at the breathtaking views- though with my current state of being out of shape, riding back up the long climb will be even more "breathtaking".
So, Vegas- here I come! Brace yourself because I'm gonna be ready to have a good time with all my friends!
Today, in the midst of all my packing and nervous energy, I stopped long enough to get out and go for a short one hour ride around the town (San Diego). I have not ridden a bike in more than two weeks and have probably only ridden about 5-6 times in total over the past month or so. Needless to say, an hour felt pretty long but was well worth the sweat.
Today was a beautiful stormy day. This morning, the rain was coming down sideways and in buckets with very gusty winds as a Pacific storm blew through. I had to go in to the office this morning for a moment and at times, the rain was so hard that I could barely see past my hood! It doesn't happen here often and it didn't last long, but we do actually get rain from time to time in our semi-arid desert. The best part about a rain here is that the sky is freakishly clear and blue afterwards. It was, though cooler and windy, a gorgeous day today.
A view of our little commercial fishing fleet harbor.
The wind was pretty heavy, so the water on the bay was pretty choppy.
The San Diego skyline, as seen from the fishing fleet harbor...
I don't know if these are crab or lobster traps, but the entire pier was covered in them.
It felt great to get out, even if it hurt more than it should have.So, if you're going to be in Vegas for the show, I hope you'll stop by the booth and say hello or at least come out to demo a sweet new bike (even if it isn't mine).
As always, I will try to snap as many pictures as I can and I will try to blog as often as I can find the strength to. Don't be upset if this space goes quiet for a few days... I'll be back with more great stuff. (Plus I still have some great pictures from Eurobike left too!)
Tim
As always, I will try to snap as many pictures as I can and I will try to blog as often as I can find the strength to. Don't be upset if this space goes quiet for a few days... I'll be back with more great stuff. (Plus I still have some great pictures from Eurobike left too!)
Tim
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