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| Thursday, July 30, 2009 |
Equipment manufacturers want to be in the loop
by VeloNation Press at 8:11 PM EST
Categories: Pro Cycling
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 Today the cycling equipment industry announced the formation of the Global Organization of Cycling Equipment Manufacturers (GOCEM), a means to provide a voice for the industry. GOCEM's long-term mission is to bridge the gap between the manufacturers and the International Cycling Union (UCI), by providing a medium for collaboration on the implementation and enforcement of equipment rules and standards.
"Cycling Equipment manufacturers (frames, components, wheels, drive trains, helmets, apparel), represent the largest and most influential contributors to both the cycling industry and professional cycling," said Phil White, co-founder of Cervélo and one of the coordinators of the GOCEM founding group. "Providing approximately 100 million Euros annually in sponsorship, product and support, manufacturers have the greatest investment and a vested interest in the success and growth of the sport."
GOCEM was formed as a coalition of manufacturers who are affected by the UCI's interpretation of its Rules and Regulations. Initially it will consist of manufacturers who supply equipment to ProTour and Continental Pro/Wildcard teams.
Recently the UCI announced that it was expanding its "3:1 rule" from only frame tubes to all parts and components. This enforcement, coupled with tough economic times, has motivated the manufactures to band together to highlight the financial hardship that UCI decisions can bring to the industry.
The UCI, through M. Philippe Chevallier (Manager, UCI Road Department), has expressed both its support for a single manufacturer’s association and a willingness to work with such an organization.
“GOCEM welcomes the UCI’s willingness to collaborate with us and looks forward to a mutually-beneficial dialogue,” said Claudio Marra.
Founding members of GOCEM include: A-Team (Taiwan Bike Company Association representing Merida, Velo, Maxxis, Alex, Rims, Formula, VP components, Well-go, RS-Suntour, KMC, Truvativ, Kenda, Topeak, TH Industries, Tektro, Joytec, Jagwire and RST), BH, Bianchi, BMC, Cannondale, Canyon, Cervélo SA, Cinelli, COLIPED, Felt, Focus, FSA/Vision, Fuji, Giant, GT, Hed, Look, Mavic, Orbea, Oval, Prologo, Quark, Ritchey, Rotor, Specialized, Sram, Teschner, Time, 3T and Zipp.
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