SRAM neutral race support starts in 2006

As SRAM has introduced two new componentry groups and will soon announce the sponsorship of two professional teams, the company has also committed to a SRAM Neutral Race Support (NRS) program through 2007. The agreement puts five SRAM decaled 2006 Volvo XC70's on the road, providing neutral mechanical support, at more than 80 events nationwide.

SRAM's Global Marketing Manager, David Zimberoff, said that the program was "simply furthering our commitment to the road segment." Program Manager Butch Balzano expects to travel nearly 250,000 miles in the coming year and oversee as many as 15 technicians. "SRAM is excited about the road and is demonstrating that through their strong support of this program."

The SRAM NRS appearance calendar will include the Sea Otter Classic, the Pan Mass Challenge, the International Cycling Classic and the Fitchburg Longsjo Classic. "We enjoy working with every type of road event and, no matter where we are, it's really just about supporting riders," Balzano added.

Other sponsors of the program include Volvo cars of North America, Colnago frames, Thule rack systems, and Michelin tires. SRAM's NRS will work together with other neutral support programs and when asked, Mavic's Director of Sales and Marketing Chris Zigmont said, "This program is complementary to what we do, and we're excited to see another road program supporting cycling at core events."