Specialized and McLaren Applied Technologies Extends Partnership for Breakthrough Cycling Technology
Posted at 2011-09-30 10:04:27 +0100
When Specialized set out to create the fastest road racing bicycle in the world, the company invested more than a year in creating an all-new platform. To provide the final carbon layup optimisation, Specialized collaborated with engineering, design and fabrication expertise normally reserved for the fastest cars in the world: Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 race cars. The culmination of the effort was the fastest road bike in the world, the ‘S-Works + McLaren Venge’. In its racing debut, a development prototype of the Venge won the longest professional one-day race Milan-San Remo and, more recently, it was piloted by Mark Cavendish to win the World Road Race Championships-validating the bike’s unprecedented combination of aerodynamics, light-weight and extreme pedalling efficiency.
Building on the success of the S-Works + McLaren Venge, Specialized has entered into a long-term relationship with McLaren Applied Technologies. The partnership will focus exclusively on breakthrough products and technologies that provide true performance benefits to cyclists and capitalise on both organisations’ considerable technical expertise. While the specific projects will remain classified, Specialized and McLaren will each bring all of their respective resources and experience to bear on the projects, and undertake projects prioritised by their potential impact on the rider’s performance, including bikes, equipment and cumulative rider performance on and off the bike.
“McLaren’s computing systems and proficiency in carbon technology is extraordinary.” said Specialized Chief Product Officer, Eric Edgecumbe. “The opportunity to splice McLaren and Specialized’s DNA to produce game-changing cycling experiences for riders is unprecedented and hugely exciting.”
Geoff McGrath, Managing Director of McLaren Applied Technologies said of the deal, “We are delighted to have extended our relationship with Specialized. This is a great example of a long term partnership with a like-‐minded company to provide breakthroughs in performance and to create enduring competitive advantage.”
About Specialized:
Specialized was founded in 1974 by riders for riders. We focus on improving everyone’s ride by delivering technically advanced cycling products with true performance benefits. Born in Northern California, Specialized now connects with cyclists all over the world.
