Madison Saracen 2013 - Episode 1: Preparation

2013 sees a new era for the Madison Saracen DH Team, with a new rider lineup complete with a new look and of course, a new bike.


 
Last season saw the team claim their first World Cup podiums, as well as securing a Bronze World Championships medal and two National Series titles. This year top British racer Sam Dale joins Manon Carpenter, Harry Molloy and Phil Atwill on the Madison Saracen team, with Will Longden continuing his role as Team Manager.
 

Once again, the team will be racing aboard the Saracen Myst. Since the formation of the team, the Myst has been the weapon of choice, knocking up some impressive accolades including titles and podiums at both national and international level.
 
Last season the team tested a prototype carbon rear end, shaving some 400g off the frame weight, reducing the amount of un-sprung weight and allowing for an increased level of suspension performance.  Thanks to the team’s feedback the carbon rear end is now a production feature on the Myst Pro and Myst Team models and will continue to be ridden by the team in 2013.

 
The Madison Saracen team bikes are based around the Myst frameset featuring an exclusive team paint job. Suspension duties are handled by Fox, with the team running the DHX RC4 shock, complimented by the legendary 40 RC2 DH fork. Cockpit parts come from PRO, who have kindly created bars, stems, saddles and seat posts to match the team colours, making Madison Saracen one of only two teams on the World Cup circuit running a custom colour-way.

Shimano handle drivetrain, shifting and braking duties with a smattering of Shimano Saint components., including Shimano Saint hubs running on DT Swiss FR600 rims. Gamut finish off drivetrain duties with the presence of their popular new “S” guide – the perfect guide for the team’s off-season training in the beautiful British weather!


The team is also proud to announce, new for the team in 2013, Continental will take care of rubber, including the brand new Kaiser Project tyre which is an exciting addition to the range and already a firm favourite with the riders.

The Madison Saracen team also continues to represent Madison Clothing, Dragon Alliance, 661, Finish Line, Park Tool and Mojo. As well as having the pleasure of announcing the support of nutrition and hydration sponsors Mule bar and nuun, alongside clothing giants Animal for the 2013 season.

Photography & Videography: Laurence Crossman-Emms (www.laurence-ce.com)