The involvement of Honda G-Cross in the sport of Down Hill Mountain Bike has been a great success story, bringing a new, exciting, element to the sport. Greg Minnaar, twice former World Cup Champion is the ‘Leader’, the ultimate professional and smooth operator of the Honda RN-01 downhill mountain bike. But Greg is not content with his performance and results from last season. While consistent with his riding, no wins at the World Cup rounds in 06 means that you can bet he is determined and hungry to win back the title in 07.
On the flip side, young Finnish rider Matti Lehikoinen, fresh from the icy Finnish winter, had an unbelievable season in 06, the highlight being his first ever World Cup win in Brazil. Matti will be eager to further improve his results and will be a contender for the overall title with the likes of Minnaar, Peat, Hill, Hannah, and Kovarik.
Also for 07, Honda has made a new addition to the mix with 06 World Cup Jr. Champ Brendan Fairclough. The flat pedaled rider has shown that he has the ability and talent to compete at the world level and the ride with Honda G-cross will give him the opportunity to tame the RN-01 iron steed.
On the female front, Alpinestars rider Helen Gaskell, riding for Halfords Bike Hut, will be threatening for podium finishes. After coming off one of her best seasons in 06, finishing 5th overall in the UCI World Cup Rankings, she’ll be on the hunt for the title giving Tracey Mosely and Sabrina Jonnier a run for their money.
Another lady to keep an eye on is 4X/BMX rider and Beijing Olympic hopeful Anneke Beerten. She has been putting herself through vigorous training during the off season, preparing to take the World Cup 4X title away from Jill Kitner, who was unstoppable last year, winning every 4X championship on the race calendar.
The 2007 season is going to be the most eagerly anticipated and closely battled World Cup to date. With so many talented riders on the circuit, it will be difficult to call who will come out on top each race. But the great thing about the World Cup series is that anything can happen, races can be lost on a corner, a flat tire and with only 5 rounds to claim the World Cup title, the pressure will be on.
Somebody needs to give young Adam Cianciarulo a chill pill
Friday Night, Ronnie Renner won the whip contest of the X Games in Dubai.
