Manufacturers battle in new Constructors Championship

The non-profit International Mountain Bike Teams, Tech support and Organizers (IMTTO) association has created a Constructors Championship, modelled after a similar competition in various motorsports. The contest recognizes the participation of different brands in the UCI's World Champmionship and World Cup events.

Points are awardedfor each men's and women's cross country, downhill and four cross World Cup and World Championship event, excluding junior and Under 23 categories. Points for men's events are 20 for first, 19 for second, etc., down to one for the 20th place. The women's points are the same except are only awarded for the first 10 positions.

After the World Cup in Fort William, Specialized leads the standings with 309 points ahead of GT with 213 points and Intense with 191 points. Trek and Santa Cruz round out the top five with 189 and 174 points respectively. 48 manufacturers are currently ranked.

The winning brand at the end of the season will take home trophy.

To following the rankings, visit IMTTO's website at www.imtto.com/news.php.