Exciting Changes for 2018 Season!
First, for those of you who took the time to fill out our multiple surveys, thank you. Opinions varied widely on bike brands, shop affiliation and clothing and didn’t provide a clear consensus, but clearly there was opinion and passion.
Socrates said, “The secret of change is to focus all your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” With that in mind I’m excited to announce new direction in 2018 which I know will bring renewed strength and vigor to our team!
Our relationship with Cannondale was long and fruitful, but their business model changed and our team requirements along with it. It was clear we needed to look at all our options.
Specialized Bicycle Components and Shimano will be our new sponsors for the next three years. Of course we all want to be on a new Dura Ace Di2 Specialized bike as soon as possible, but there is no immediate requirement and Specialized will aid in the transition for all of us. For 2018, Specialized has revamped their road and mountain bike lineup and are clearly leading the charge with high technology and innovation, so check out their website (https://www.specialized.com)
Perhaps even more important is our shop affiliation. Please join me in welcoming Rock & Road as the “Official Shop of Cycles Veloce” The Rock & Road family of stores has been part of the So-Cal cycling scene for many years. Matt Ford and his team are all enthusiasts, competitors and advocates for the sport of cycling. The four Rock & Road stores are strategically placed to service a significant portion of our membership.
On Saturday, January 27th 2018, 6PM, we’ll hold our inaugural meeting at the Rock & Road location in Irvine, CA. There will be many opportunities to discuss. (RSVP and complete details coming soon. Please check back.)
Reminder: You’ll have to be a 2018 member of Cycles Veloce to take advantage of the great benefits so tell your fellow cycling enthusiasts.
Please also remember to join People for Bikes to advocate your rights as a cyclist!
Finally, I want to thank Jeff Hyder, Simple Green; Matt Ford, Rock-n-Road and Jeff McGuane (Specialized) whose support was vital in making this team a reality in 2018!
See you on Jan 27th and don’t forget to RSVP for the meeting and dinner!
Mike Okano
Team Simple Green/Rock-n-Road/Specialized
