LONGMONT, Colo. (BRAIN) — CrossVegas' E-Bike Challenge will be sponsored by Focus and 15 entrants will get a chance to use a new Focus e-bike for the race, the company announced.
"Focus, one of cyclocross' iconic supporting brands, is a long-time partner of CrossVegas and has helped grow the event into the fun festival it is," said CrossVegas founder and director Brook Watts. "With their growing presence in e-bikes, it's a no-brainer to add an e-bike challenge to the fun."
"Given the tough features of the course, like the sticky grass and steep climbs, it's a great place to put an e-bike through its paces," he added.
Focus E-Bike Challenge participants will ride three laps of the full course, including the Sand Dune, the flyovers, the barriers, and the Focus stairs. Former cyclocross World Champion and Focus brand founder Mike Kluge is the official ride leader. Men and women will toe the line together, but compete separately, with the top three of each earning a CrossVegas cowbell and prizes from Focus.
The Focus E-Bike Challenge is open to male and female USA Cycling-licensed riders. Foreign riders may purchase a 1-day USAC license.
"Focus is a household word in 'cross, and a founding sponsor of CrossVegas. We're looking forward to mixing in a little fun with our newest line of e-bikes this year," said Andreas Krajewski, senior brand manager for Focus. "It fits in with the festival atmosphere CrossVegas is known for."
In addition to the E-Bike Challenge, the CrossVegas venue will include an e-bike demo course featuring the Focus Bold2 and Jam2 e-mountain bikes. Spectators at the race can test bikes throughout the afternoon and evening.
The 11th annual race is planned for Sept. 20, the Wednesday of Interbike's week in Las Vegas, and is at the Desert Breeze Soccer Complex. The event typically attracts more than 12,000 spectators and racers.
