Halifax built Orange downhill bikes will be the chosen weapons of the new Global racing DH squad.
The new team – Missy Giove, Greg Minnaar, Markolf Berchtold, Mick Hannah, Naoki Idegawa, Daisaku Kaneko, Sean McCarroll, César Rojo and Marielle Saner were originally all going to ride whatever equipment they chose which sounded like a mechanics and logistics nightmare, but they’ve now plumped for a a more regimented approach, choosing Orange as their bike brand over a huge number of (mostly American) contenders.
Team Director Martin Whiteley confirmed that all the products had been carefully considered by the team members before determining which would best serve the interests of Global Racing. “It was very important for us to have a list of Official Suppliers that we could confidently claim to be our products of choice, globally. The riders were consulted and have given their resounding support for this list of suppliers”, said Whiteley today.
He continued “After seeing Greg Minnaar’s (Team Animal) excellent performances in 2000, we sent our Head Mechanic Patrick Griessen to make an evaluation of the Orange program, and he was extremely impressed. They are very committed to making the best bikes possible, and will be making Global Racing new Downhill bikes in 2001 based on rider feedback, including a whole new model that Missy will be helping design”, said Whiteley.
The Orange frames will be completed with componentry from the following top line suppliers; Shimano – Official Bicycle Component Supplier, RockShox – Official Suspension Supplier, Azonic – Official Competition Clothing Supplier, and Official Supplier of Handlebars and Stems, Michelin – Official Tire Supplier, Mavic – Official Rim Supplier Tioga – Official Supplier of Seat Accessories, Head Stems and Fenders, DT Swiss – Official Supplier of Hubs and Spokes and Pedro’s – Official Synthetic Lubicants Supplier.
No word on the supplier of the team teepee’s and environmental messages that were promised at the team launch, and no confirmation that the Oranges they’ll be using are organic.
The team will be racing the full world cup season, but have not yet confirmed their appearance at the always popular Hebden Bridge evening duel events. However we reckon local Halifax riders had better keep a watch out over their shoulder for “Missile Giove” out testing in the Pennines sometime soon.