Since 2006 the cycling company SRAM has partnered with Volvo by using Volvo XC70’s for the Neutral Support Program. This program is unique in that it travels the nation to selected professional and high profile cycling related events.
SRAM designs and manufactures cycling specific components such as shifters, cranks, brakes, cassettes, chains, chain rings, derailleurs, and even wheels. From humble beginnings in Chicago during the late 1980’s, SRAM has grown into one of the most innovative and successful companies in cycling.
As in any business or team sport success really comes down to the people involved. I have had the pleasure of spending some time with the crew of SRAM Neutral Race Support by seeing them in action at America’s most successful cycling race, the Amgen Tour of California.
At first glance you might be shocked at how the SRAM crew makes use of the 72.1 Cubic Feet of cargo capacity in the versatile XC70. The amount of equipment that can be safely stored is incredible, The SRAM Volvo fits 5-7 complete sets of Wheels, various tools, equipment and supplies related to cycling. On the roof is six complete race bikes that are ready to go.
The stock 300hpT6 engine is equipped with the newly released Polestar software package which adds 25 horsepower and 30 lb.-ft. of torque, bringing the already stout T6 engine to 325 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. Equally impressive is that the added power does not affect fuel consumption, as the efficient tuning of the engine only increases the power output when it is needed.
The amount of time, preparation and effort that goes into race support is quite impressive. The skills and the level of seamless communication between the SRAM Neutral Support crew is astonishing. Throughout any event there is close monitoring of the race, riders and environment. Neutral Support is a mobile unit that is literally prepared for just about any type of circumstance that may arise during a race or event. To put this into perspective imagine an auto racing pit crew that is mobile and follows the race in a separate vehicle ready to assist anyone in the race at a moments notice. It’s a common practice to change any component or even a complete bike within a matter of seconds. The Neutral aspect of what they do is that they are ready to assist any professional rider, there is no designation by team, sponsor, or manufacturer.
I am a big fan of the people, products and humanitarian efforts of SRAM which is a driving force behind cycling related humanitarian assistance throughout southeast Africa. Since 2005 the World Bicycle Relief foundation has directly impacted over 500,000 lives by providing 100,000+ bikes with support from over 700 mechanics that share the gift of transportation with students, health care workers, entrepreneurs and disaster victims.
Cycling is one of the oldest sports in the world! Many people have fond memories of riding a bike during their childhood. I personally enjoy the fact that it’s one of the few outdoor activities that you can enjoy throughout a lifetime. My hat’s off to those of you who enjoy your Volvo by transporting gear and people whether it’s camping, riding, boating or simply just a road trip, have a wonderful time with your Volvo vehicle this summer.
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