Race Tech and Sponsorship Shake Up Pro Cycling’s Power Structure

Performance Tech Arms Race

• Scribe launches Ultra Élan and Ultra CORE wheels, headlined by OSL8 carbon spokes with wind-tunnel-validated aero and watt savings, positioning Élan as a top UCI-legal option and CORE as a more affordable Alpina aero-steel alternative.
• Campagnolo’s Super Record 13 overhauls a criticized 12-speed group, improving front shifting consistency and shift paddle ergonomics to rebuild trust amid layoffs and questions about innovation.
• CADEX’s Aero Integrated Handlebar claims 1.2-watt savings at 40 kph, using a one-piece carbon design for aero gains and cleaner cockpit integration.
• Jank Components’ long chainstay link for Ibis Ripmo V3 and Ripley V5 adds 13 mm chainstay length, lowers BB by 3 mm, and slackens head angle by 0.5° for more stability.
• FLI’s Venturi suspension bleeder brings semi-automatic, vacuum bleeding to home mechanics at €1,249, with CO2-powered off-grid use.

Market, Media & Rider Well-Being

• WorldTour sponsorship churn sees Bahrain Victorious move from Merida to Bianchi, Scott sign a multi-year deal with NSN Cycling, and Premier Tech join Mathieu van der Poel’s Alpecin squad, modestly increasing budgets and reshaping brand visibility.
• Netflix–WBD negotiations exclude WBD Sports, leaving MTB World Cup coverage under WBD rights until 2030, with future access still unclear.
• Coverage of REDs and the rush to find the next Pogačar-level star highlights risks of under-fueling, burnout, and early professionalization.
• A serious crash case in Portland exposes gaps in traffic-law enforcement for cyclists.
• Expanded November-long e-bike discounts and helmet sales from brands like Giro, Specialized, and Troy Lee Designs show safety and value driving consumer behavior.
• Liv’s STP youth line and Giant’s migrant worker refunds underscore investments in youth participation and labor compliance.