SRAM is proud to expand its commitment to the newly branded Axeon Cycling Team, the premier U23 development squad in men’s cycling. Axeon (pronounced “ak-shun”) and SRAM will collaborate more closely on product development, testing and refinement as the world’s top young racers push their limits on the latest technologies from SRAM, Zipp and Quarq.
The focus is on development and improvement for the future. Axeon, owned and directed by Axel Merckx, has succeeded in this goal since its creation with SRAM as a founding partner six years ago. With 18 riders having graduated from the program, the team has positioned itself as the premier development program in cycling. For 2015, Axeon rides Cipollini frames with SRAM components, Quarq power measurement and, for the first time, Zipp wheels, bars, stems and seatposts. For time trials, the team will use Zipp aerobars.
“This season marks our seventh year with SRAM. They’re a vital partner that shares our passion for rider development and constant improvement,” Axel Merckx said. “Our staff works closely with technical consultants at SRAM to ensure our riders have the best performing and most dependable bikes in the peloton.”
“SRAM is very pleased to not only continue, but to grow our support of the Axeon Cycling team, its mission and its captain, Axel Merckx,” SRAM Director of Road Sports Marketing Alex Wassmann said. “In 2009 we joined as a founding sponsor of this international development project and over those years the team has proven to be instrumental in SRAM achieving both our sporting and product ambitions. All of us at SRAM are very proud to play a supporting role in a program that grooms and graduates model athletes into the professional peloton.”
Axeon, which operated as the Bissell Development Team last season, showcases young talent in races including the AMGEN Tour of California, USA Pro Cycling Challenge and the U23 Paris Roubaix.
“SRAM supplies us with the lightest and fastest components. However they also work with us to make sure we, as development riders, get the most out of our equipment,” Axeon rider Tao Geoghegan Hart said. “SRAM as a company invests in our future, from bike set up to product development. Experiences that are all a part of each rider’s goal of becoming a fully fledged professional rider.”
Roster
Geoffrey Curran (USA), Greg Daniel (USA), Daniel Eaton (USA), Tao Geoghegan Hart (GBR), James Oram (NZ), Logan Owen (USA), Chris Putt (USA), and Keegan Swirbul (USA) are returning members. New riders include Ruben Guerrero (POR) and Justin Oien (USA), as well as club riders Will Barta (USA) and Phil O’Donnell (USA).
Technology Highlights
SRAM RED 22 is the world’s lightest and fastest drivetrain has fit and gearing features including Reach Adjust and WiFLi as well as the largest range of aero shifters.
Force 22 is loaded with all of the key innovations of SRAM RED 22 with its own fleet looks, ergonomics, efficiency, and lightweight design.
Zipp Firecrest wheels are pro-proven for aerodynamic efficiency, crosswind stability and durability. Zipp’s Service Course SL handlebars, stems and seatposts and Vuka aerobar systems designed through pro rider and fitter feedback.
Quarq RED 22 power meter provides 1.5% accuracy, Power Balance™ and OmniCal™ — cutting edge technologies to amplify rider performance and training.
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