Cannondale Factory Racing is not only one of the foremost teams on the UCI MTB World Cup scene. They are also among the most innovative. The team’s dedication to attention to detail pairs perfectly with SHIMANO’s. Thus, when the opportunity to supply the squad with riding apparel arose, S-PHYRE eagerly stepped into the role.
Mona Mitterwallner, Henrique Avancini, Simon Andreassen and Alan Hatherly were already putting their power through the S-PHYRE XC902 mountain biking shoes, so the move to S-PHYRE bibshorts and jerseys was a natural one. The design process was not without its challenges however, as the Cannondale logo runs across four panels on the jersey. A rider specific cut was needed, in order to ensure the perfect, individual, fit while the sponsors’ branding remains perfectly visible.
To achieve this each garment is hand-stitched to the exact measurements of the individual rider. The hand-cut and assembled nature of the garments means that event the team replica jerseys are works of art. Though not made to measure, they are in no way mass produced but painstakingly hand-made.
Along with this custom attention to detail the garments represent the cutting edge of fabric technology. Made to perform in the crucible of UCI World Cup racing the race-fit jersey is constructed from 100% Recycled polyester, which is both moisture wicking and quick drying. The sleeves feature a sporty raglan cut, for comfortably support freedom of movement; while the jersey has three back pockets, smooth neck seams to reduce chafing, 45mm elastic in the front hem and silicone grippers along the back to help keep the jersey in place, even during maximum efforts.
The Cannondale Factory Racing S-SPYRE bibshorts feature a tight, slightly compressive, fit on the legs and a mesh upper for increased breathability. The white mesh uppers have the added benefit of not showing through the jersey; thus allowing the subtle design elements to stand out, rather than the bibshorts straps. The chamois is an Italian made GITA insert with 4-way stretch padding and flatlock seams, designed to move with your body. The 80% Recycled Polyester, 20% Elastane lowers are UPF level 50+ certified, to prevent sunburn in even the harsh African sun during the Cape Epic.
The strong working relationship, between SHIMANO and Cannondale Factory Racing was built on the team’s use of SHIMANO XTR drivetrain and brakes. As one of SHIMANO’s closest partners on the mountain biking circuit, Cannondale Factory Racing have been pivotal in the development of the latest generation of XTR components. Their high standards and rigorous testing are equally key to the creation of the new S-PHYRE kit.
Months of research, development, fitting, training and redesigning led to the creation of a range of products perfectly suited for the rigors of World Cup racing. The Cannondale Factory Racing S-PHYRE apparel has already featured on World Cup podiums in its debut season and helped the team to the top of the team standings after three rounds.
The jersey is available in sky blue/black while the black bibshorts feature sky blue and white decaling. Both boast reflective trim to ensure the wearer is visible in low-light to other road users. Cannondale Factory Racing Limited Edition Replica kit is available from selected SHIMANO retailers, visit MTB>Shimano.com to find out more.
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