Saracen has just revealed it has signed 2008 Nissan QashQai winner Lance McDermott in a three year deal.

UK distributor Madison Cycles bought the Saracen brand recently and have set about relaunching it, with a fresh new range of bikes for 2010. The signing of McDermott should go a long way to getting back the status Saracen once enjoyed in the UK.

Lance will be looking to repeat his successes riding the new Saracen Amplitude alu and cromo bikes, as well as working with the Saracen design team to develop a signature range.

Madison’s chief executive, Dominic Langan said: “I am delighted to get Lance on board with Saracen and believe he is the ideal ambassador for the brand in the dirt jump category. We have some great looking bikes and strong consumer and retailer demand for the brand but competition success at an international level will further enhance the image and reputation of the brand. We have great aspirations for Saracen and you can expect more professional riders joining the team in the future. This is just the start!”

Lance added: “I am pleased to announce that I have signed for Saracen bikes. I can tell you this was the best decision I have ever made as the bikes from Saracen ride amazing! So easy to ride, with low BB and short top tube, the Amplitude line up cannot be faulted and as I have said to lots of friends and riders that have asked me my true opinion on the bikes and I can honestly say you won’t have to change a thing! The bikes have an amazing spec and ride perfect, so perfect that I am proud to be riding for Saracen in 2010!”

McDermott is the first signing to come to Saracen under the new Madison ownership who have plans for the future as the brand seeks to reestablish itself. Find your nearest Saracen dealer at www.saracen.co.uk.