Team Axeon and SRAM

by Paul Horta-Hopkins · 27/01/2015

Team Axeon and SRAM

Paul Horta-Hopkins

SRAM Ready for Axeon in 2015

We’ve seen how SRAM are sponsoring World Tour and Pro Continental teams, now it’s for time for the young guns of the Axeon Cycling Team (that’s pronounced Ak-shun). SRAM have been involved with Axel Merckx’s team in different guises, for six years now. The squad’s focus is on developing and improving young riders for a life in the pro peloton. And to this end Axel has been very successful, with eighteen riders graduating to full time professionals, an exceptional hit rate.

Axeon, new team, new bikes, but same plan – to develop new riders

SRAM is expanding it’s commitment to the new Axeon Cycling Team and for 2015 Axeon – owned and directed by Axel Merck – will be riding Cipollini frames equipped with SRAM components, Quarq power measurement and, for the first time, Zipp wheels, bars, stems, seatposts and aerobars. As well as supplying the team SRAM will use any feedback to help further develop their components.

“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.”

The Axeon Cycling Team will have the pick of SRAM, Zipp and Quarq’s top components to help them in the coming season

Axeon, which went under the name of the Bissell Development Team last season, will be looking to feature in races such as the AMGEN Tour of California, USA Pro Cycling Challenge and the U23 Paris Roubaix. Riders such as Britain’s Tao Geoghegan Hart will be hoping to benefit from Merckx’s experience and SRAM’s support.

“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,” 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.”

Team roster for 2015

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).

Axeon have produced a short YouTube video, showing their new kit and clothing.