If you’re a bit handy on a bike and think that you could do a good job of promoting an up-and-coming brand, then Vario might have a deal for you. As well as a full professional team contesting the World Cup circuit and a deal to supply bikes to the Aston Hill DeVo squad, Vario is looking for riders for the semi-supported Co-Factory team.

It’s a heavily-subsidised bike and kit deal, so you’re effectively riding as a privateer but you don’t need quite as much money. Vario’s looking for riders in DH, 4X and XC/marathon for 2005. You’ll need to be planning a comprehensive race campaign and to race “competitively, but fairly”. And Vario tells us that it’s looking for cheerful racers who look like they’re actually enjoying it, so if you tend to grump your way around the course snarling at people you’ll probably need to look elsewhere.

If you think you fit the bill and you’re looking for a ride for 2005, wander over to www.vario-bikes.com to look at the bikes, then pick up the phone and dial 0845 60 20 565. Or email [email protected].