Californian bike builder to continue work with Formula 1 team’s Applied Technologies division
Californian bike company Specialized and Formula 1 team McLaren have announced an extension to their partnership. The two companies began their collaboration, mixing Specialized’s knowledge of frame design with McLaren Applied Technologies’ (MAT) experience in composite technologies, in 2010. The first product of this collaboration, the S-Works+McLaren Venge, was presented in March this year on the eve of Milan-Sanremo, and promptly won the race under HTC-Highroad’s Matt Goss.
"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.”
Since its first victory the Venge has gone on to take a number of further prestigious results, including five stages and the points jersey at the Tour de France with Mark Cavendish, prompting both companies to hail their partnership a success.
“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,” said Geoff McGrath, MAT managing director. “We’re delighted to have extended our relationship with Specialized.”
According to a statement from Specialized: “The partnership will focus exclusively on breakthrough products and technologies that provide true performance benefits to cyclists and capitalize on both organizations’ 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 prioritized by their potential impact on the rider’s performance, including bikes, equipment and cumulative rider performance on and off the bike.”