GT press release - biggest news is brannigan on the squad
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GT Factory Racing Primed for Performance and Fun in 2018
GT Factory Racing shakes up 2018 roster; adds new team members and says goodbye to others
GT Factory Racing (GTFR) has announced its 2018 team roster. New riders George Brannigan of New Zealand, Noga Korem of Israel, and Joey Foresta of the United States join the team with current and proven GTFR riders Wyn Masters (1st at the EWS in Rotorua) and Martin Maes (6th overall for the 2017 EWS season).
This stacked lineup will be positioned to perform at the highest level, and have fun doing it, on the UCI Downhill World Cup and Enduro World Series circuits. “We’re excited to welcome George, Noga, and Joey to the GTFR family,” said Mark Maurissen, GTFR Team Manager. “Together with Wyn and Martin, they are up for a great adventure and are prepared to chase down medals all over the world.”
A two-time New Zealand National MTB Champion, George Brannigan brings his rowdy DH racing and competitive spirit to GTFR. Over the years, his speed has led him to several top finishes including 1st at the Crankworx Rotorua AirDH in 2016 as well as 2nd at the UCI-Oceania Continental Championship that same year. In 2018, Brannigan looks forward to elevating his game and earning some World Cup podiums.
“I’m stoked on a fresh start with GT,” said Brannigan. “They have been awesome in welcoming me and are so enthusiastic about everything they do. I’m also excited to work with a brand that is iconic within the mountain bike industry. Can’t wait for some good years to come!”
A former cross-country racer, Noga Korem will add her vigor and bubbly personality to the GTFR team. Acting as a privateer on her first EWS circuit in 2017, Korem showed tenacity and her passion for enduro racing as a fully self-supported rider and travelling solo. She turned heads when she received her first podium at Round 3 of the 2017 EWS in Madeira as well as the EWS Breakout Performance Award.
“I am super excited to start my first season as a professional rider with GT Factory Racing,” said Korem. “Throughout the 2017 EWS season, I saw the great vibes the GT team put out there. I knew I wanted to be a part of the team and represent the brand.”
“I am grateful for this amazing opportunity and looking forward to learning from my teammates and staff and sharing adventures around the world and at the 2018 EWS races!”
A 16-year-old ripper from Utah, Joey Foresta has been a part of the GT program since he was a six-year-old racing both BMX and mountain bikes. The young rider has already left some big footprints on the mountain bike scene with numerous national championship titles and a standout performance at the 2016 Sea Otter Dual Slalom. Foresta took 2nd place next to winner and new teammate Martin Maes. In 2018, Foresta will jump into his first year as a Junior by hitting a full UCI DH World Cup season under the mentorship of Wyn Masters and George Brannigan.
“I’ve been a huge fan of GT and everyone on the team for as long as I can remember,” said Foresta. “I’m humbled to have the opportunity to be side-by-side riding with and learning from great riders and mechanics. It’s so cool to start my Junior career and jump into the start gate as a GT Factory rider!”
Both Martin Maes and Wyn Masters are committed to continuing the good times with the GTFR team in 2018. Maes looks forward to his sixth year with the GT family. “Being part of such a legendary brand means a lot to me,” said Maes. “I’ve grown up on GT bikes, and I can’t thank them enough for the unbelievable support over the years, and I’m super pumped for another year of riding all over the world on the EWS and other races.”
Masters will once again straddle enduro and DH this season, and he is fired up. “After two years of good times, the decision was easy,” he said. “I’m looking forward to plenty more good times with the team!”
Since its inception, the GT Factory Racing program has been centered on having maximum fun on the mountains and racing at the best events. This year’s roster remains committed to the love of riding with a focus on performance and victory.
As a new chapter begins for GT Factory Racing, another ends, and GT will say goodbye to athletes Anneke Beerten, Sam Dale, Jackson Frew, and Brook MacDonald. Rachel Strait will continue with GT and bring her enduro expertise to the GT’s Wing Project joining ambassadors Hans Rey, Tyler McCaul, Ronnie Renner, Bernardo Cruz, and Amir Kabbani.
For more information on GT, its pro riders and the bikes they ride, visit www.gtbicycles.com. Check out GT Bicycles on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, and follow GT Factory Racing on Instagram.
The GT front office made good choices on their 2018 personnel. George Brannigan will definitely fit in nicely, while Korem and Foresta are both future champions (I hope they have long-term contracts). It's a leaner team, so, hopefully, there'll be a lot less injuries than 2017.
Can't wait to see the proto Sanction and Fury this season!
I can hear the looks like a Trek comments already. Are GT DH bikes really that bad?
The Athertons won with them, so it being a "bad, unraceworthy bike" is just an unwarranted array of comments. Bikes have gotten REALLY good in the past few years. According to today's standards, they're slightly outdated, super stiff, and could use a more progressive curve.
I love mine though, they just field a lot of generalized flack from the market and internet cycling aficionados for decisions the parent company made years back...
EDIT: Stoked for the GT team, sad to see Brook walk, but he'll do great wherever he ends up. As for Brannigan, give me some of this... https://vimeo.com/122842529
The GT front office made good choices on their 2018 personnel. George Brannigan will definitely fit in nicely, while Korem and Foresta are both future champions...
The GT front office made good choices on their 2018 personnel. George Brannigan will definitely fit in nicely, while Korem and Foresta are both future champions (I hope they have long-term contracts). It's a leaner team, so, hopefully, there'll be a lot less injuries than 2017.
Can't wait to see the proto Sanction and Fury this season!
Yeah, I agree. Can't wait to see how Foresta does this year and I'm stoked to see Korem get a factory ride.
Nothing against gt. I wish they had better bikes but you only need to watch video comparisons to see they’re terrible. I can see a new rider or a comeback rider signing for a year with them but you’re risking it to sign longer. Maes could get a good cheque most anywhere. He could be dominating on a capable bike. Hope he doesn’t miss the boat but he’s still young I guess
I can hear the looks like a Trek comments already. Are GT DH bikes really that bad?
Can´t really tell if they are bad but can you remember the crash Brook had 2017 in Leogang where he missed a stomp just by a few centimeters? The rear brake mount came of the rear triangle (word was that that happenend a few times) and I´ve never heard/seen any other bike doing that :-)
They got a new bike last year. They got rid of the I-drive and went to a straight basic single pivot.
As far as the Athertons...
They got a new bike last year. They got rid of the I-drive and went to a straight basic single pivot.
As far as the Athertons go, I think it speaks the level or riders they truly are to win on that bike.
FWIW, the Athertons had a big role in the design of the Fury and Sanction as we know them today. So maybe the bikes are good for the Atherton riding style and simply not good for others riding style. I do think that Gee, Dan and Brook were similar ridilers though, fast AF, slam into things hard and like air. But, who knows for sure.
It also seems like they had tons of tire trouble last year, so hopefully they get that sorted out for this season. It would have been nice to see some finishes without all the tire issues.
Athertons on full Hope setup? Cranks and seatpost on the session in the back ground
[img]https://p.vitalmtb.com/photos/forums/2018/01/08/5799/s1200_Screenshot_20180108_173853.jpg[/img]
Athertons on full Hope setup? Cranks and seatpost on the session in the back ground
Hopefully it means: Athertons + Hope = Athertons + Brayton.
Brayton deserves to not be a lone renegade in the pits.
edit: I would like to just quote the text as to not repeat the picture, is this possible somehow?
I'm not sure the change to GT 'claimed' anyone. I was actually surprised to see how relatively few podiums Brook has been on in his career, I definitely would have thought it was more than five (1,2,4,4,5). And on two tracks I'd expect to see him do well at, Ft. William and MSA, his results on GT are better than Trek all but one time.
GMBN Tech posted. I know this has been said before, but it DOES look like Greg may be on a 100% helmet next year...
[img]https://p.vitalmtb.com/photos/forums/2018/01/08/5801/s1200_0CA107B5_EA2D_4FB5_8C2F_4DC03E0F07D6.jpg[/img]
GMBN Tech posted. I know this has been said before, but it DOES look like Greg may be on a 100% helmet next year...
I'm not sure the change to GT 'claimed' anyone. I was actually surprised to see how relatively few podiums Brook has been on in his career...
I'm not sure the change to GT 'claimed' anyone. I was actually surprised to see how relatively few podiums Brook has been on in his career, I definitely would have thought it was more than five (1,2,4,4,5). And on two tracks I'd expect to see him do well at, Ft. William and MSA, his results on GT are better than Trek all but one time.
Maybe he was held back by those ridiculously small wheels back then? The jump to the bigger and obviously better 27.5" wheels must have made all difference. Or maybe it was switching from carbon to aluminum. Proof that alu is better?
I'm not sure when Trek made the switch to 650b and I'm being fully sarcastic btw
They got a new bike last year. They got rid of the I-drive and went to a straight basic single pivot.
As far as the Athertons...
They got a new bike last year. They got rid of the I-drive and went to a straight basic single pivot.
As far as the Athertons go, I think it speaks the level or riders they truly are to win on that bike.
It was more of a mule than a new bike thou to be honest take the IDrive out and change the shock position, but it was the same front triangle and rear end so nothing to ground breaking they did it and had to move quick because apparently the team were saying how crap the bike was!
Remember Slugger even won a World Cup on that hideous carbon fury that seemed short and steep, top riders these days should be able to win a race on any bike I’m sure Gwin, Troy and many others could of podiumed the GT Brook never could.
I really hope GT do have a new bike on the way, and I’m hoping it’s a modern day GT LOBO haha imaging that long, low, slack, strong, and with a new pullshock.
Nice point coming from General Lee re: race results.
Not sure if the data reflects this, but it seems Kiwi riders have not been able to get the consistency required to dominate a full season of DH or Enduro. It's certainly not for lack of talent, that's for damn sure.
Could it be because they have such a busy off-season at home? Too much traveling time, maybe, compared to other countries (NZ is far from pretty much everywhere else)?
It was more of a mule than a new bike thou to be honest take the IDrive out and change the shock position, but it was...
It was more of a mule than a new bike thou to be honest take the IDrive out and change the shock position, but it was the same front triangle and rear end so nothing to ground breaking they did it and had to move quick because apparently the team were saying how crap the bike was!
Remember Slugger even won a World Cup on that hideous carbon fury that seemed short and steep, top riders these days should be able to win a race on any bike I’m sure Gwin, Troy and many others could of podiumed the GT Brook never could.
I really hope GT do have a new bike on the way, and I’m hoping it’s a modern day GT LOBO haha imaging that long, low, slack, strong, and with a new pullshock.
Pull shocks are the way of the future. I'm telling you... C'mon Rock Shox! Grow some balls and bring 'em back. (You've done your enduro thing.) I've got the frame design all worked out.
I'm not sure the change to GT 'claimed' anyone. I was actually surprised to see how relatively few podiums Brook has been on in his career...
I'm not sure the change to GT 'claimed' anyone. I was actually surprised to see how relatively few podiums Brook has been on in his career, I definitely would have thought it was more than five (1,2,4,4,5). And on two tracks I'd expect to see him do well at, Ft. William and MSA, his results on GT are better than Trek all but one time.
Let's also not forget that Gee killed it on the 26" "new" fury and won worlds on the 27.5" version. Multiple wins and several podiums for him on Gt, and he hasn't done much since the switch to Trek (well aware he's been battling injury the last two seasons). I have to agree with General Lee, I don't think that the GT is a career death sentence for anyone, I just Think it probably rides differently from most and takes some time to get used to. A lot of people claim the session is the fastest bike of the WC, and the results show that the Fury is right there with it when under the same riders.
GT claims another
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GT Factory Racing Primed for Performance and Fun in 2018
GT Factory Racing shakes up 2018 roster; adds new team members and says goodbye to others
GT Factory Racing (GTFR) has announced its 2018 team roster. New riders George Brannigan of New Zealand, Noga Korem of Israel, and Joey Foresta of the United States join the team with current and proven GTFR riders Wyn Masters (1st at the EWS in Rotorua) and Martin Maes (6th overall for the 2017 EWS season).
This stacked lineup will be positioned to perform at the highest level, and have fun doing it, on the UCI Downhill World Cup and Enduro World Series circuits. “We’re excited to welcome George, Noga, and Joey to the GTFR family,” said Mark Maurissen, GTFR Team Manager. “Together with Wyn and Martin, they are up for a great adventure and are prepared to chase down medals all over the world.”
A two-time New Zealand National MTB Champion, George Brannigan brings his rowdy DH racing and competitive spirit to GTFR. Over the years, his speed has led him to several top finishes including 1st at the Crankworx Rotorua AirDH in 2016 as well as 2nd at the UCI-Oceania Continental Championship that same year. In 2018, Brannigan looks forward to elevating his game and earning some World Cup podiums.
“I’m stoked on a fresh start with GT,” said Brannigan. “They have been awesome in welcoming me and are so enthusiastic about everything they do. I’m also excited to work with a brand that is iconic within the mountain bike industry. Can’t wait for some good years to come!”
A former cross-country racer, Noga Korem will add her vigor and bubbly personality to the GTFR team. Acting as a privateer on her first EWS circuit in 2017, Korem showed tenacity and her passion for enduro racing as a fully self-supported rider and travelling solo. She turned heads when she received her first podium at Round 3 of the 2017 EWS in Madeira as well as the EWS Breakout Performance Award.
“I am super excited to start my first season as a professional rider with GT Factory Racing,” said Korem. “Throughout the 2017 EWS season, I saw the great vibes the GT team put out there. I knew I wanted to be a part of the team and represent the brand.”
“I am grateful for this amazing opportunity and looking forward to learning from my teammates and staff and sharing adventures around the world and at the 2018 EWS races!”
A 16-year-old ripper from Utah, Joey Foresta has been a part of the GT program since he was a six-year-old racing both BMX and mountain bikes. The young rider has already left some big footprints on the mountain bike scene with numerous national championship titles and a standout performance at the 2016 Sea Otter Dual Slalom. Foresta took 2nd place next to winner and new teammate Martin Maes. In 2018, Foresta will jump into his first year as a Junior by hitting a full UCI DH World Cup season under the mentorship of Wyn Masters and George Brannigan.
“I’ve been a huge fan of GT and everyone on the team for as long as I can remember,” said Foresta. “I’m humbled to have the opportunity to be side-by-side riding with and learning from great riders and mechanics. It’s so cool to start my Junior career and jump into the start gate as a GT Factory rider!”
Both Martin Maes and Wyn Masters are committed to continuing the good times with the GTFR team in 2018. Maes looks forward to his sixth year with the GT family. “Being part of such a legendary brand means a lot to me,” said Maes. “I’ve grown up on GT bikes, and I can’t thank them enough for the unbelievable support over the years, and I’m super pumped for another year of riding all over the world on the EWS and other races.”
Masters will once again straddle enduro and DH this season, and he is fired up. “After two years of good times, the decision was easy,” he said. “I’m looking forward to plenty more good times with the team!”
Since its inception, the GT Factory Racing program has been centered on having maximum fun on the mountains and racing at the best events. This year’s roster remains committed to the love of riding with a focus on performance and victory.
As a new chapter begins for GT Factory Racing, another ends, and GT will say goodbye to athletes Anneke Beerten, Sam Dale, Jackson Frew, and Brook MacDonald. Rachel Strait will continue with GT and bring her enduro expertise to the GT’s Wing Project joining ambassadors Hans Rey, Tyler McCaul, Ronnie Renner, Bernardo Cruz, and Amir Kabbani.
For more information on GT, its pro riders and the bikes they ride, visit www.gtbicycles.com. Check out GT Bicycles on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, and follow GT Factory Racing on Instagram.
A paycheck is a paycheck i guess. Maybe there is a new bike in the works?
Can't wait to see the proto Sanction and Fury this season!
I love mine though, they just field a lot of generalized flack from the market and internet cycling aficionados for decisions the parent company made years back...
EDIT: Stoked for the GT team, sad to see Brook walk, but he'll do great wherever he ends up. As for Brannigan, give me some of this... https://vimeo.com/122842529
As far as the Athertons go, I think it speaks the level or riders they truly are to win on that bike.
It also seems like they had tons of tire trouble last year, so hopefully they get that sorted out for this season. It would have been nice to see some finishes without all the tire issues.
Brayton deserves to not be a lone renegade in the pits.
edit: I would like to just quote the text as to not repeat the picture, is this possible somehow?
http://www.oneal.eu/en/2018-mtb-collection/
I'm not sure when Trek made the switch to 650b and I'm being fully sarcastic btw
Remember Slugger even won a World Cup on that hideous carbon fury that seemed short and steep, top riders these days should be able to win a race on any bike I’m sure Gwin, Troy and many others could of podiumed the GT Brook never could.
I really hope GT do have a new bike on the way, and I’m hoping it’s a modern day GT LOBO haha imaging that long, low, slack, strong, and with a new pullshock.
Wonder if he'll be going the 29er
https://www.rootsandrain.com
Not sure if the data reflects this, but it seems Kiwi riders have not been able to get the consistency required to dominate a full season of DH or Enduro. It's certainly not for lack of talent, that's for damn sure.
Could it be because they have such a busy off-season at home? Too much traveling time, maybe, compared to other countries (NZ is far from pretty much everywhere else)?
https://www.instagram.com/p/BdtCYRpAV6A/?hl=en&taken-by=richie_rude1
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