Aaron Gwin's Official Statement

525 6

kookseverywhere FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:17)

To everyone who says Gwin is being unprofessional towards TWR, it's actually the other way around. Not talking about the situation to the media and not creating an immature argument is a highly professional move by Gwin and his lawyers.

322 2

socalbomber (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:25)

Ay Trek... no one likes a bunch of high school girl drama, move on and get over it

19 68

f2002scoob (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:35) (Below Threshold)

Zeitgeist was right. It's all a joke.

83 4

hncreature (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:08)

I have been proven wrong and I take back my "no honor" statement...best of luck to Gwin in 2013

46 4

briancahal (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:09)

Aaron Gwin gave trek all they could have ever hoped for. Trek should calm down because it seems like they gave him a contract that wasnt what they agreed to. I was a bit skeptical about Gwin when it was announced but it seems pretty clear that Trek is just mad and now they are trying to tatle tail on Gwin.

32 149

dakillerpeyton (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:14) (Below Threshold)

Specialized reacted similar too the loss of Sam. They were mad and were saying some unprofessional things.

49 5

dcrolfe (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:29)

All of this could be turned into a soap opera...

44 19

David8048 (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:32)

The thing is though, if TWR take this to court etc. and win Gwin back, that would be a horrible team environment, because Gwin simply wouldn't want to be there. TWR should simply accept, and move on.

28 5

samminett (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:35)

im pretty sure you are safe here Aaron we all here at pinkbike are behind you.

good on you for the change and good luck in the next world cup (btw please give the other top racers a chance to win) good luk dude

90 2

smike (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:39)

@David8048: if TWR takes Gwin to court, it is to sue him. Meaning, for money. Courts don't force people to race for certain teams. That would be strange.

37 7

harrisonds (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:41)

I want to like it but its at +69

16 4

smike (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:00)

To add to that... if Gwin is successfully sued by TWR, Specialized would pick up the tab on that, not Gwin himself. The only way this would affect Gwin himself is that it would tarnish his reputation as an honourable guy. Which, in the grand scheme of things, won't affect how many races he wins.

46 10

Spicy-Mike (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:06)

I honestly cannot believe the people who made all sorts of presumptions about Gwin being some dishonorable ungrateful dick leaving TWR under contract or full liability.. ESPECIALLY when both sides weren't displayed properly.
We also ALL knew that there was only a letter of intention in the mix...since when did pre-ordering a game before release date mean you HAVE to buy the game?

This still isn't the full case yet and all details aren't known, but if you BELIEVE and make quick assumptions about someone in which they HAVE NOT had the proper chance to argue their side, you're good as some bunch of highschool clique girls who gossip about everyone else behind their back...

Like I said, the worst level this is at is standing up a girl on a date. Trek is the girl, Gwin is the guy. Sure, not the best thing to do, but is it really THAT BAD? No, especially when nothing was 100% promised. Everyone lives and moves on. /rantover

3 4

David8048 (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:11)

@smike, ahhh yes ofcourse, thanks for clearing that up!

8 2

ridelife6 (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:21)

i wish i could prop socalbombers comment 100 times, if he doesnt want to ride for treck then let him go. we're talking about biking here, not f*ckin hillary clinton (american politics)

57 3

smike (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:08)

Funny how opinions are so easily swayed both ways. First everyone was against Gwin, now they're against TWR. The truth most likely lies somewhere in the middle.

Before you go dismissing the importance of contracts and the business side of biking, remember that this is what fuels the sport. Without professional racing, corporate sponsorship and athlete endorsements, the industry would be nowhere close to where it is now.

And before everyone runs to back Gwin, consider that just because his move might not be legally binding, doesn't mean that TWR doesn't have a case against him. It also doesn't mean that Gwin should have just picked up and left just because their contract didn't meet his needs/expectations. Usually when you negotiate, you present the contract, and if one party is not happy with the terms, you sit down and discuss the terms and hopefully come to an agreement. This is what you do when you have a professional relationship.

Just because another company offers you something better, doesn't mean you should just go ahead and sign with them without giving your previous employer a chance. That's burning bridges. And burning bridges never works out for anyone.

I'm not saying this is what happened. But from the reports on both sides, it sounds like Gwin was in a hurry to leave without giving much or any notice. What he did may not be considered a breach of contract, but that doesn't mean it shouldn't be dismissed as unprofessional. As I said, no one knows what actually happened. I'm just saying, it's not so black and white.

17 59

Protour (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:26) (Below Threshold)

I agree Spicy Mike, people were unjustifiably villyfying Gwin and talking lies about him before they knew the facts. Lets find the worst Gwin haters, print their names here, then we'll talk sh*t about them.

Now that we know more about Trek's lies, and how Lance Armstrong's close association with Trek was bad for Gwin, his move is completely understandable.

If Gwin is just as dominant on a Demo it will prove it's the bike not the rider, if not they might want to make the chainstays a little longer or try a different suspension design that pedals better. Especially if Sam Hill starts wining again on a NukeProof. I think Minnar might have an edge at World's in PMB, and not just cause it's his home track.

116 0

IanHylands (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:44)

I realize that many people here are saying TWR, but just as many seem to be saying Trek, and that needs to be cleared up a little. Please keep in mind that while Trek is the title sponsor of TWR they really don't have anything to do with Gwin's contract. That's all TWR and 23 Degrees, not the bicycle company itself.

14 1

dvbwn (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:47)

well said Ian, Trek as a company has a lot to clear up without this being added to it.

3 9

smike (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:50) (Below Threshold)

How so?

11 55

Protour (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:02) (Below Threshold)

Martin Whiteley is primarily representing Trek, so I just say Trek. They took half of the name Star Trek and made it bike company, thats where the name came from!

13 1

Chaindriven (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:41)

You nailed it.. No one knows the circumstances. Lets let the dust settle, then hate someone.

3 2

jdigdog (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:53)

You're right - Trek and TWR are two separate entities. I do, however, think that Trek Bikes need to step forward and say something addressing this. They have to realize that being the title sponsor of a guy that treats his team like this, reflects very badly on them. Trek makes awesome bikes and if i were them, I would b thanking Gwin and acknowledging what a winning combo Gwin and the Session 9.9 were!

11 1

gbx (Jan 10, 2013 at 2:01)

This looks like a common example of someone that is good at his job, leaving for his own reasons, to a better one. But the former employers recognize the lose and treat you like a betrayer. It happens, maybe happened to all of us here. Simple as that.

3 1

joeylongarms (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:38)

@smike: If Trek take him to court damages are only one remedy. If they really think they have a binding contract in place then they could apply for an order of specific performance. In other words Gwin would be compelled to fulfill his contractual obligations

1 0

vt6spd (Jan 10, 2013 at 4:07)

@ridelife6- yeah, cause f*cking Hillary would be soooo much worse!!!!

haha!

2 0

b45her (Jan 10, 2013 at 4:17)

@joeylongarms Gwinn doesn't have any contractual obligations to TWR ,all he had signed was a letter of intent to sign a full contract, it would appear he didn't like that contract so didn't sign it.

6 0

bryantaber (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:16)

As in any other sport, or entertainment deal.....the first deal you make when the company is taking a chance on a new up and comer, the money is usually not at the highest pay grade. The athlete or artist has to suck it up until they proove themself. Since Gwinn has obviously dominated right out of the gate, I am sure he has had time to reflect on his next deal and the substantial pay raise that comes with that. Possibly even the highest deal for a WC rider to date. If TWR /23 Degrees was not willing to pay or match any other offers on the table OR WORSE pulled a Greasy bait and Switch....then who could blame him for jumping ship. Especially when you feel like they've violated your trust.

41 5

Icculus19425 (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:19)

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4 5

a-donch (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:02)

@AmateurHour...your conspiracy theories are hilarious.

Now go back to your moms' basement and put your tinfoil hat back on...they're coming for you.

1 0

fullbug (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:25)

too bad their wcdh season starts so late. this drama would end quick if they could all just be racing. I guess sea otter should be gwin's intro party on his demo. i'd hate to be under the twr tent vibe this season.

6 5

scott-townes (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:28)

Why does everyone still care about this? This is just the business aspect of racing and has absolutely nothing to do with the fans or the sport.... so why does everyone feel the need to attach their opinions to the personal business between two parties that has nothing to do with what you'll be watching? This is about as absurd, if not more, than when Lebron left Cleveland.... is winter really this boring guys? haha

3 7

SkylineYakuzaDude42 (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:35) (Below Threshold)

I said he would be the one to join specialized! Ha!

3 0

bryantaber (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:35)

Yes...I can only re watch the NBC Rampage coverage so many times.

2 0

fullbug (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:55)

you weren't diggin' masakela in his wife-beater?! haha

1 1

ibeaver (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:45)

Good to see the real protour is back.... I was almost jealous yesterday seeing how many props he had, and thought it wasn't real, thought it was fiction.... The biggest loser is in fact whitley, as I said yesterday. I don't like to bash people honestly, but there doesn't get any less tasteless sports management except from WWF. Pity. They had something good going.

6 1

TomWatkins (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:47)

ahhh the return of the true Protour we all know and love..

4 10

Spicy-Mike (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:26) (Below Threshold)

@Protour,

Thanks man. Idk why everyone neg props you, yes you may say some other stuff but in the end it's all for discussion. And yes I believed the Lance ordeal might of had some influence, because Trek's amount of relationship with the whole thing... but obviously they are seperate.

In other cases similar to this, many athletes often distance themselves from big scandals to avoid tarnishing their own image, it's actually really common.

5 0

cuban-b (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:35)

^ or, he got a better contract.

4 2

bryantaber (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:47)

I don't wanna slam the obvious point down, but since August 2012 these suspiscions were reaching a fever pitch when LA decided to drop the fight against all his accusers and the UCI stripped his medals. But even before that, there were strong rumours in and out of the biking world that the accusations would be coming true with teammates being called before Congress. Unless GWINN his family, and his agent were all living in a cave, I'm pretty sure he would have heard about it. He would have had plenty of time before he signed the LOI to start thinking about distancing himself. The whole idea is fictional bullshit!!!

3 1

tomki (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:50)

hahaha @David8048. Win Gwin back? The age of slavery is over mate.

1 0

a-donch (Jan 10, 2013 at 13:06)

What you're actually talking about is refered to as, "specific performance". If Gwin's attorney was even the last in his class at law school, the contract Gwin signed would most likely have a clause that specifically denies TWR from demanding, "specific performance".

Meaning if Gwin does break his contract with TWR, they can go after him for monetary damages, etc, but they cannot demand that he actually ride for them.

2 0

sam93mx (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:24)

Lets just go race bikes for a year in 2013.. No legality needed, just some tape and a couples trees!

1 4

JRoe (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:39)

Oh Sh!t Greg minnar just announced he was leaving Santa cruz for trek!!!!! No he didn't, why do people belive what the teams say and not what the rider says. One minute everyone was slagging gwin off for leaving and apparently breaching his contract and now everyone's on his side only 24 hrs after the whole things started. !!!!!!

2 1

bryantaber (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:14)

Cause it's cold and there's snow on the ground and......go bite one....that's why!!!

3 1

dakillerpeyton (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:20)

I'm regretting commenting on here, way too many notifications.

4 6

nocoolnamesleft (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:22)

Not only that but you got negged soo hard!!!

2 1

EricThiessen (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:29)

well im going to neg you

4 1

robin281 (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:47)

well, im behind gwin, as are most people on pinkbike, but the REALLY important think, is that protour's comments are back to being negatively propped

3 8

Protour (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:38) (Below Threshold)

@Bryantaber At the time Gwin signed the LOI Lance Armstrong had not been stripped of his 7 TDF titles. Once he lost those his sponsors dumped him and it was not until then that his biggest fans realized he was a huge cheater. The timing actually lines up perfectly, and Gwin said when he signed with Trek that he looked up to Trek Bicycles and Lance when he was wining TDF's. Might even have been part of why he signed with Trek. Knowing the high ethical standards Gwin has it would be completely understandable that he would want to distance himself from the brand and the doper Lance that he once looked up to.

2 0

drewstinky (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:51)

he should have just stayed with yeti... no drama

2 1

dvbwn (Jan 10, 2013 at 22:39)

@drewstinky - and because yeti's turquoise paintjobs are the sh*t!

2 1

deeeight (Jan 11, 2013 at 12:13)

Protour, you're beating a dead horse. Gwin has high ethical standards? REALLY?? He doesn't like a contract as sent to him, and rather than re-negotiate in good faith, or signing it, or even telling the team management that he's unhappy with what they sent him (such that the day before the leak of the team switch, TWR still thought Gwin was to be riding for them) he goes and starts shopping himself around to other teams. That is not being ethical. That is being deceitful. And as to your whole lancenspiracy... get a life.

2 0

dingo-dave (Jan 11, 2013 at 15:32)

Or maybe Martin and him had discussed contract details at great length and then he got something totally different in the mail? Wouldn't you be less than impressed?

1 0

scott-townes (Jan 11, 2013 at 15:50)

deeeight- yeah poor Trek World Racing... I mean those guys just worked sooo hard to be where they are and as you know factory teams belonging to no name brands like Trek, have a very short career, if they don't get injured of course..... right, riders should get less than what they think they deserve because gosh darn it! That's just the right thing to do for TWR because they would always back up Gwin, even if he was out for a few seasons... oh wait, no they wouldn't. Ethics doesn't come into play when you don't have a long career, bud.

1 0

smike (Jan 11, 2013 at 15:53)

I don't think that's what he was saying. He was saying that when you receive a contract from your current employer and it's not what you expect or want, you talk to them first before you jump ship. Especially after signing a letter of intent. And I think ethical behaviour comes into play in all aspects of life.

2 0

the-vault (Jan 11, 2013 at 16:25)

As an employee or employer determining pay or wage rate is a negotiation. You are always better negotiating from a strong position. Racing at this level is very much a business and both sides are aware of how these things work. It is ethical to go out and seek work from multiple places and get multiple offers and choose the best one. That is the preferred position to be in as employee. If you are an employer, you want to get the best talent...you can afford. Usually the reason someone has multiple offers, is because they are good at what they do.....burning bridges, like threatening to sue someone when they don't want to work for you, is never really a good thing.

1 1

smike (Jan 11, 2013 at 16:44)

Yes, if you're unemployed and looking for work, by all means shop around. But if you're currently employed and just signed a letter telling them you'll stay on for another 3 years, then at least voice your dissatisfaction before leaving.

1 0

deeeight (Jan 11, 2013 at 20:42)

Another three to five, remember the video aaron explained that it was 3 plus an option for another 2 years.

1 0

scott-townes (Jan 12, 2013 at 6:20)

smike- I really don't understand why you along with other people feel that anyone is obligated to tell a former employer that you're not happy with them if you've decided to not go with them. Leaving their team is a pretty good indicator that he doesn't want to race for them... it's not like he hurt TWR's feelings or anything... it's business. Better yet, it's none of our business.

1 0

smike (Jan 12, 2013 at 6:25)

I don't think anyone is obligated, no. I just think it's the stand-up thing to do. But who knows how twr was treating him.

All of this is speculation on all sides. We discuss, speculate and gossip because it's winter and there's nothing better to do

1 0

dingo-dave (Jan 12, 2013 at 7:45)

Just because Mr Whiteley said he was surprised doesn't mean he didn't see it coming. None of you ACTUALLY KNOW that Gwin simply jumped ship without any prior discussion or attempting to come to a mutually beneficial agreement. This is borderline slander.

1 0

bryantaber (Jan 12, 2013 at 14:32)

Right...we do not know how far apart the 2 contracts were...we don't know the way the team treated him....and we do not if he even got along with his teamates and /or the organization. OR... if he even liked people he saw everyday. It comes down to money, and can you stand seeing the same people over and over again. Sometimes personalities just don't click. Might have been ready for a change and it just took some grimey business to push him over the edge. As an American I just hope he retains Tomac as his coach. Just win, Gwinn!

1 0

nwguerilla425 (Jan 16, 2013 at 10:50)

Go get em' dog nuts. I don't give a shit who you ride for, just keep your fingers off the brakes like you always do!

113 9

Rambo1501 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:16)

I SWEAR, IF THE HOME PAGE IS FULL OF LEGAL BULL SHIT AND LAWSUITS IN THE COMING WEEKS I WILL BE PISSED OFF

155 0

thecarpy (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:19)

And you know what happens when Rambo is pissed off...

48 0

takeiteasyridehard (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:23)

Sweaty machine guns!

16 42

Bmxerch (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:41) (Below Threshold)

We say hello to his little friend ?

I remember when riding bicycles used to be for the thrill of it... Who the hell invited politics in????

24 5

larryssman7 (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:06)

You obviously don't know the meaning of the word "politics". I think the word you're searching for is "business".

13 8

leelau (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:18)

Coitus interruptus res ipso biggest dickus

29 1

finnrambo (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:33)

you say hello to his lil friend? geez dude you need to see scarface and notice sylvester stallone and al pacino are different

@bmxerch

2 11

Bmxerch (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:25) (Below Threshold)

Oh well.

Either way, someone's lieing, someone's telling the truth. Since when is lieing part of business ? Trek's f*cked if that's the case. It's a mess of Political bullshit IMO.

I've always associated that to Rambo for some reason... Looks like I need to watch more movies.

10 2

tmargeson (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:32)

Did you REALLY just say, "Since when is [lying] part of business?"???? Are you for real?!?!?!

3 5

Bmxerch (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:19)

Yeah I did, deal with it.

And it seems everyone's got a problem with it... TWR/Trek shouldn't need to lie through their teeth, IMO, that's f*cking politics, not business.

4 2

robin281 (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:50)

gonna get neg propped for it, but i iagree with Bmxerch.. business is doing deals and shit.. polotics is arguing over whether a deal had been done/trying to make a deal and shit. this is politics.

2 2

Bmxerch (Jan 10, 2013 at 20:13)

Eh, when you speak your mind a lot, and it happens to be the truth/no one agrees, you get used to the neg props.

1 1

tmargeson (Jan 15, 2013 at 8:54)

But the point is, A) you think lying is not part of business, when in fact, it's been part of business since the beginning of time. Thus, it's not the truth. B) politics and business are inextricably intertwined. Nothing is new here.

1 0

Bmxerch (Jan 15, 2013 at 15:19)

The point is, a personal call out/personal attack/anything taken out personally is not business...

If it were business they would have dropped it and moved on, because now TWR look like a bunch of complaining, attention whoring twats, don't they?

Point is, this is political, not business.

1 0

Nate-Clark (Feb 14, 2013 at 11:12)

Because ain't nobody got time fo dat.

74 4

mikelevy Mod (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:46)

One point that people should remember is that Trek World Racing (TWR) and the company Trek are two different things. The infamous YouTube video that was posted today, as well as the press release from 23 degrees both came from Martin Whiteley, not Trek. Trek hasn't said anything but seem to be getting thrown under the bus in this whole debacle.

16 0

ScandiumRider (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:11)

Hear, hear! Trek is the big loser in this whole situation since it's really between TWR (23 degrees) and Aaron Gwin...

52 2

stiksandstones (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:25)

Then Trek should control outlets that represent them.

4 1

kzuma (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:46)

link to the YouTube video?

10 0

dave-m (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:54)

stikman has it right. Trek is allowing TWR to represent them, so either put a muzzle on them, separate, or take the flack as it comes.

9 0

andrew-pringle (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:57)

"link to the YouTube video?"

http://youtu.be/p8K5UUmsQJU

2 0

eluder FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:59)

^^^ for the record the official one was taken down

2 0

Im-not-very-clever (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:34)

That's also the one page contract he talked about, not the 16 page one presented in November

16 8

ionn (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:52)

Yeah, Session's still lokinng better than demo.

5 3

dvbwn (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:49)

Maybe when Gwynn gets on his new demo he'll miss the 9.9 ...

www.pinkbike.com/photo/3933241/?s3

23 0

lumpy873 (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:55)

I can't help but wonder how many phone calls and emails Martin has had from his press release... Now, if you are a rider, would you want to ride for this guy knowing that if you get a better deal in the off season, you will get publicly threatened with a lawsuit? And if you are a sponsor, how likely this will come up next time he goes shopping with a letter of intent?

Personally, if I was in Trek's marketing department, I would send out a press release thanking Gwin for what he did while riding a Trek, wish him the best in the future, and make it clear that Trek Bicycles is not involved in any legal actions against Gwin...

But, that's just me..

13 20

Protour (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:25) (Below Threshold)

Is it safe to say Trek won't be renewing Whiteley's contract next time it expires? He threw everything under the bus with his noxious behavior lately and now it sounds like he didn't deliver what he promised Gwin when it came to the final contract.

But nobody threw Trek harder under the bus than Lance Armstrong, and now that Gwin is gone it seems like a potentially fatal run-over.

4 0

Chaindriven (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:49)

Completely different bikes. Im sure he will do fine tho. Bet his bottom brackets gonna get dented up!

8 2

alexlag (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:56)

Protour: how is Armstrong related to what 23 degrees and Gwin are going through right now?

If you hate Armstrong so much this is not the place to trash him. It's pretty clear that you do NOT know any facts of what happened with Armstrong, or Gwin for that matter. You are just one of those big mouths out there feeling brave behind your computer. Get a life!

2 2

madmax245 (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:05)

^^^^I agree with alex

9 0

a-donch (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:03)

@Protour is an absolute tool.

His (or Her) rantings about Lance Armstrong and conspiracy theories don't even deserve to be dignified with a response. (And yes, I do realize I am responding.)

Whiteley's handling of this situation however, is certainly a PR case study on how not handle yourself in a crisis situation. It's also amazing that Trek, with all it's marketing & PR prowess, allowed this buffoon to sully the good name of their brand like this. This isn't rocket science...it's PR 101. In the grand scheme of things, those who follow World Cup downhill racing are a very small percentage of the bicycle buying public, so Trek (not TWR) might not even care.

No one, other than those directly involved or close to the situation, obviously has any idea what really went on between Gwin & TWR, but if Whiteley's handling of this situation is any indication of how he conducts himself and runs his businesses, I for one can't blame Gwin for bolting.

2 1

madmax245 (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:42)

^^^^^^^I agree with you to

1 0

boogaloo77 (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:50)

does the video look fake as hell to anyone? the handshake kills me. it looks too fake

53 1

ambatt (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:16)

Thanks go out to Gwin for even making a statement -- I believe in him as a person and as a rider... For such a talented, hardworking guy, he's humble, straightforward and honest yet never minces words.

9 5

takeiteasyridehard (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:27)

He has a lot of great coaches, including lawyers and PR people. Makes it easier. But the man is the greatest we've had since palmer in my book, and its almost turning into the same story.

1 0

mountainbiker24 (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:59)

Except that Palmer's issues came from too much partying and a lack of commitment. The opposite of Gwin. I would also argue that he is much better than Palmer ever was. Perhaps the greatest since Tomac, who also was a different type of rider... Gwin is quite unique, given his talent and personality and beliefs.

56 5

patrickdemo9 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:16)

GWIN IS A BOSS AND I STAND BEHIND HIM 100%

12 0

Azamac (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:21)

yeaaaabudy!

14 2

yetiking303 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:53)

its going to be a good year for the USA.

19 5

8stringamateur (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:16)

Merica!

3 0

dirtworks911 (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:14)

..

53 2

UncleCliffy (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:18)

imgur.com/3RMZv?tags

12 48

Protour (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:04) (Below Threshold)

Entertained but not satisfied. I still think Lance Armstrong's association with Trek was a significant part of the reason Gwin left Trek. But if he doesn't want to talk about the Lance factor it's understandable, he is a DH racer and not a roadie. We all understand, it would be uncomfortable for Gwin to talk about Lance.

Here is how this all went down:

End of summer, everything is going good for Gwin so he makes verbal 3 year commitment to Trek. Soon after USADA releases 1000 page report about Lance Armstrong doping, then eventually UCI validates report and strips Armstrong of 7 Tour wins. Trek says "oh shit" and finally dumps Lance as a sponsored athlete. Gwin, who grew up admiring Armstrong, is disgusted with all the doping Trek knew about and decides he wants nothing to do with the brand anymore and starts asking around mid December and starts ignoring Trek. He hears Sam Hill might be leaving Specialized, so he respectfully waits for Sam to leave for NukeProof then announces he signed with Specialized. Trek shits their pants when they realize they lost their only marketable athlete, and Martin Whiteley cries like a hypocritical baby. Gwin wins again.

48 0

IanHylands (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:45)

A lot of interesting hypothesis, but unfortunately it's all fiction. I can't really say anything about it, but I will say that you have a very creative imagination...

3 0

lumpy873 (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:48)

Except for the fact that technically, Gwin didn't ride for nor was employed by Trek. Gwin rode for a team that was heavily sponsored by Trek. Someone else could come along and put in bunch of money into Martin's pocket and it would no longer be Trek World Racing. I am willing to bet Martin asked Trek as well as all the other team sponsors for more money based on Gwin's letter of intent. Now, any deals that haven't been signed yet just became less valuable and I am sure the deals that may have been already signed based on a two time world cup champion being on the team have some people a little hot under the collar.

You theory about the Gwin/ Lance connection is about as good as my boss blaming a drop in road bike sales because of the Lance deal..

8 41

Protour (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:12) (Below Threshold)

Yeah, it's ALL fiction. Gwin never signed a letter of intent with Trek...USADA never issued 1000 page report...UCI never validated it...Lance still has 7 tdf titles!...Hill never left Specialized, yep, he's still there....Gwin never signed with them....apparently. I think your post was actually more fictional than mine.

5 0

kerberos FL (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:29)

I don't know if this is worth a discussion, but with Gwin coming from BMX and motocross prior to mountainbike, that's a completely different path with no connection to road biking at all.

6 0

matt5311 (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:54)

protour, just drop your daft idea. Yes the two things happened around the same time. But where is the proof that one caused the other.

38 0

orientdave (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:32)

Protour, By your logic then so is this possible... End of summer, everything is going good for Gwin so he makes verbal 3 year commitment to Trek. Soon after I lose my phone on the train. By a stroke of luck a mate finds it again, logs on to my FB page and changes all my likes etc, including removing my like of Gwin, Gwin sees this, gets depressed and misconstrues that his loss of an FB like means he must be losing it so starts asking around the pits for a new ride... etc etc. Many of your ideas on PB are ridiculous in my opinion, but worth reading for the entertainment value so keep it up and have a nice day,

4 0

juanpkumicho (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:14)

megaLOL, what a good post orientdave

6 1

togood2die (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:00)

@Ian -
This is Protour we're talking about here...
He had one week of the new year to hold to his resolution to not be a controversial douchecopter, and he's hopped off that bandwagon already!

6 0

bryantaber (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:12)

This is how it REALLY went down. Protour spoke out his ass........it all fell in the toilet........PB'ers all collectively flushed.....and down it went. :-)

1 0

Jhou (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:15)

Good for Gwin and sucks for TWR. I have a feeling this isn't over yet. All it takes is a little PR and people will stand behind you really quick.

3 16

Protour (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:16) (Below Threshold)

Yeah I like how Ian pretends to have some inside info that he can't reveal. Saying you can't talk about it is exactly the same as saying you know absolutely nothing from an information point of view. Just say'in. Even if he asked Gwin if Lance Armstrong was a factor Gwin wouldn't have told him because he works for the media and would share Gwin's secret about Lance being a factor. It sounds like money was a factor also. Gwin probably figured, hey, I Trek isn't giving me what they promised me in August, Trek is a tainted brand now because of its affiliation with doper Lance Armstrong, so I should try to get more money elsewhere and distance myself from this roadie shit show.... and he did. Gwin may never publicly admit to anyone that Lance was a factor but it still doesn't mean that it wasn't. The timing of everything makes too much sense for it not to.

12 1

kwymore (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:30)

^^ **graduated with a master's in guessology** ^^

3 0

bigburd (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:30)

flag Protour (9 hours ago) (Below Threshold) show comment
" I agree Spicy Mike, people were unjustifiably villyfying Gwin and talking lies about him before they knew the facts "

Much like saying he left because of Lances convictions?

19 0

fraserbritton (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:26)

Holy shit, Protour is mental.

8 0

togood2die (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:35)

Protour is Pinkbike's lovable Kanye West.

2 1

a-donch (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:46)

@Protour is an absolute bag of d*cks.

More likely than your half cocked hypothesis...is that between Gwin siging a term sheet (Letter of Intent) with TWR, Trek was finally smacked in the face with the USADA's sanctions against Lance Armstrong and decided that is was backing away from the financial support of all it's highest profile athletes.

Since the letter of intent was most likely non-binding on either party, TWR then presented Gwin with a scaled back contract far reduced from the terms of the LOI. Whether is was monetary, years, press obligations, etc, who knows? But Gwin wasn't happy and bolted for greener pastures.

Obviously just a theory, but far more plausible than this crazy d*ck bags half-brained conspiracy.

10 0

z05m (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:52)

No, Protour has just sobered up. Frankly, I was getting tired of reading his logical comments last week when he was drunk but this Armstrong Aaron conspiracy is just over the top. Please can someone ship him a bottle of Jack.

2 0

kwymore (Jan 10, 2013 at 13:17)

@donch- that's exactly what i thought when i heard this news. any prudent corporation would pull back the reins on unnecessary
spending in the face of possible litigation costs, and possible decline in sales.

4 0

fullbug (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:10)

@kwymore- i spit my drink out laughing when i read your "masters in guessology" comment. funny as shite! nice work!

10 0

chrispaulcx (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:31)

Pb community to protour: did you eat paint chips when you were a kid?

Protour: why?

2 1

a-donch (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:57)

@Kwymore...it must have been an online degree...b/c Protour never leaves the basement of his mom's house.

2 0

chase873 (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:26)

Post of the topic hahaha. @protour you got smoked mate! Haha I'm still a fan o your flamboyant and rediculous rants though. Never change haha

5 9

Protour (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:17) (Below Threshold)

I got smoked? Really? Nbody has yet to make a valid point in response to my posts. Most of the clones are just calling me names or pointlessly pushing the neg props button, neither of which bother me the least.

@kerberos Gwin said when he signed with Trek that he was a fan of Lances when when Lance was winning Tour de France races, and that he looked up to Trek because of it. It might even be part of why he signed with Trek. It makes sense that if he was disgusted by Lance's doping he would be disgusted with Trek, especially since people at Trek knew Lance was doping. He probably doesn't want to talk about this reason because it would be unprofessional and uncomfortable to do so. That's fine, he doesn't need to talk about it, we all understand.

1 0

bigmouthahole (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:40)

lance, lance, lance, lance. So protour what do you think about a certain governing body allegedly covering lance's tracks for 10yrs?

4 0

EricThiessen (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:55)

Even though Protour has the most obnoxious comments in all of Pinkbike and gets more neg props in a day then all users will get in a century, his dumbness is hilarious to read

7 0

orientdave (Jan 10, 2013 at 19:34)

Protour, You really don't understand the nature of reasoned argument and the use of evidence as a basis to draw conclusions I am afraid. What you have suggested is conjecture based upon your belief that a set of circumstances are related. No-one, including you, has brought forward any evidence that your suggestion is any more than Ian suggests as the product of a vivid imagination. It is not the responsibility of those who disagree with your conjecture to prove the opposite, instead it is your responsibility to bring forward evidence to show what you believe to be true. It is my belief that there are many others who are better connected or directly involved with the current news than you, and that includes Ian Hylands and the genuine's horses mouth himself, Mr Aaron Gwin. Both of those people's words conflict with what you hold to be possibly true. Yes, you are free to believe that the Armstrong issue has been a key influence on Gwin's decision but please, understand that even in the world of vitriol filled, talk-first-think-later net forums, ideas are just that, ideas, and not facts until proved otherwise. I await your proof and until that point reserve the right to think you are wrong. Oh, I forgot to say have a nice day,

3 0

a-donch (Jan 10, 2013 at 19:53)

"even in the world of vitriol filled, talk-first-think-later net forums"...protour is still a nutbag.

1 6

Protour (Jan 10, 2013 at 23:52) (Below Threshold)

The truth is in the timing and common sense. It just makes sense that he would not want to ride same brand that was associated with so much negativity last year. The fact that he only is changing frames and tires also points to the change being due to dissatisfaction with the Trek brand name. Some things in life are obvious to the extent that they are not talked about or openly acknowledged, It's better for all parties involved to not acknowledge it and just move on. You either just get this or you don't, the people who don't remind me of the religious people who say you can't disprove God because there is no evidence that he doesn't exist. There is no evidence Gwin bolted Trek because of Lance and there doesn't need to be. All that is needed is common sense, something that is severely lacking in these quarters, apparently. Why would a dominant bicycle racer with high ethical standards and a squeaky clean image want to be associated with
a bicycle brand that was just embroiled in the biggest sports doping scandal the world has ever seen? Common sense tells you he wouldn't want to be associated with that brand, especially since Gwin must have felt betrayed by Lance since he once looked to him. He also wouldn't want the negative publicity Trek has been receiving from the Lance scandal to somehow cross over and affect him somehow, however minor it might be. A racer like Gwin wants to have pride in the brand he rides, nobody wants to look down at their bike and be reminded of a doping scandal, especially one where one of your childhood heroes let you down and turned out to be a complete liar, and the brand Trek had gone along with lie the whole time to profit from it, and even gone out of their way to silence Lance's critics who accused him of doping. I'm sure once Gwin realized all this after Lance was striped of his 7 TDF titles he realized it was time for a new kit. That's my reasoned argument.

1 0

matt5311 (Jan 11, 2013 at 2:49)

so he could be part of the specialized brand that asociates its self with people before, during and after they have doped......hmmm

2 0

Joeypalmer (Jan 11, 2013 at 3:48)

@protour ...maybe you can contact the FBI and make your case.

2 0

Stuuriaan (Jan 11, 2013 at 3:50)

www.pinkbike.com/photo/8736642

1 1

orientdave (Jan 11, 2013 at 7:34)

Look Protour, you make a good case for your ideas, however, Aaron gives different reasons, so for all your "common sense"s and "would"s and "wouldn't"s, you are still left with nothing but conjecture. I for one do not look at TWR and think "doping" so don't assume others do please. What makes you able to say with any conviction that "A racer like Gwin wants......."?? You are not Gwin, neither am I nor are any one of the armchair "experts" that plague the net into which it appears you wish to be included. Aaron has given his version of events that basically boils down to a difference between what he thought he signed a letter of intent to and a contract that turned up. Are you calling him a liar? You have some guts if you do for Aaron appears to me to be someone who falls into the category or "believable", which in many cases here on PB, you don't, You can think what you want; go ahead. To you it makes sense, fine. However may I say that you have a lot to learn if you believe that what you think is "common sense", in fact, if you think there is any such thing as "common sense" may I suggest you get out and travel a bit more. My 44 years on this planet living in various locations in Europe and Asia tells me there is no such thing. And please don't get me started on the philosophy of religion and the nature of the existence or not of God... you wouldn't like me when I get on one about the nature of religion and how humans rationalize that that cannot be, especially since it is your good self that is suggesting that until someone (Aaron Gwin??) turns up and says "Sorry Protour, you are wrong", you hold your ideas up as being true until it's falsehood be proved. Good night and take some time to think about the possibility that you have created such a strong case in your own head that you cannot see all those around you in better positions than you saying "Hey, Protour, nice idea, nice reasoning but no, that's not the case".

3 4

Protour (Jan 11, 2013 at 8:15)

Well, thanks at least acknowledging that I made a good case for my argument. You make some good points also, but I think this might be another one of those cases where the evidence comes out years later and everybody says "Oh wow, Protour was right all along, he should be a professional detective".

So if there is a God, which religion do you think he is actually associated with? Does this religion just happen to be the one your parents raised you to believe in?

2 0

IanHylands (Jan 11, 2013 at 11:45)

I think you'll probably find that when and if the details come out it probably came down to contractual details that couldn't be, or weren't willing to be ironed out. Concessions that weren't willing to be made by either side...

3 0

a-donch (Jan 11, 2013 at 12:20)

I think you'll probably find, that when and if the details come out...Protour will still be living in his mom's basement.

1 0

deeeight (Jan 11, 2013 at 12:31)

The last few seconds of the video Gwin is in signing the LOI... isn't there a quote of "maybe now I'll get more than one free bike a year".

Nice to know world cup champions now at least get a free bike. Twenty years ago, most pro/elite riders still had to actually pay for their bikes if they wanted to keep them after the race season was over. I suspect a lot of the kids on here don't understand that aspect of sponsorships... they just think the racers get lots of free stuff and tons of money and so on... it just doesn't happen that way in real life though.

2 0

suicycler (Jan 11, 2013 at 12:44)

I think he said "i've come a long way from getting a free bike once a year"

1 3

Protour (Jan 11, 2013 at 12:45)

The concessions Trek wasn't willing to make at least in part were to present themselves as a brand that associates itself with high ethical standards. Gwin couldn't ride that tainted brand after Lance soiled it so badly.

@Donche: you really are a childish Douche and all the points you try to make show a lack of knowledge. If Trek is scaling back their racing program to prepare for a lawsuit with Lance, then why did they recently add some enduro and xc rosters to their lineup? Besides, what they spend on mtb racing isn't close to what they spend on their road racing teams, and they aren't scaling back that. And there isn't going to be a lawsuit, idiot. That would be a PR disaster for Trek and they would almost surely lose anyways since he only signed a LOI. If you are going to present a theory in a public forum at least do a little research. Now go back to douching.

2 0

a-donch (Jan 11, 2013 at 13:00)

@AmateurHour: Good lord...I can only imagine how amazing your life is. I appreciate your insults, b/c if someone like you agreed with me...I would have to kick my own ass.

I don't think I ever said that Trek was, "scaling back their racing program to prepare a lawsuit with Lance."

I don't believe I ever made any mention of a lawsuit of any kind.

I simply proposed a theory that at face value, is far more plausible than the incoherent assemblange of unrelated "facts" you claim to know as being true. You sir...are a moron and clearly lack the mental capacity to engage in an informed conversation or debate using any medium, let alone an internet forum.

Best of luck to you and congratulations on the obvious enormity of your success.

1 0

matt5311 (Jan 11, 2013 at 13:46)

I have come to the conclusion that protour is in fact a very accomplished troll. My argument's for this are 1: he can structure a sentence and express his point of view meaning he can not be the total cretin he tries to portray himself as. 2: he has leaned the one thing that pisses people off most of all. An inability to accept that his theory is almost certainly flawed when logic is availed of

1 2

Protour (Jan 12, 2013 at 8:04)

I'll accept thday my theory is flawed when somebody makes just one dent in any of the points I use to back it up with, and I have al admitted that money was likely a factor also. But I don't think it was the only factor, I think part of it is Gwin being concerned with the image of the brand he ride, and Trek certainly has an image problem these days.

@Donch51 Sorry, I misquoted you and insulted you. No need to hate, bro.

2 1

bryantaber (Jan 12, 2013 at 14:37)

I'm sick of protour bashing.....it's getting boring....this whole thread is getting boring. It's been 3 days now.

1 0

chase873 (Jan 14, 2013 at 3:21)

i upset him...

2 0

epavichthesavage (Jan 15, 2013 at 2:00)

Don't scare Protour away, his comments and the reactions are like 29% of the entertainment here on Pinkbike

4 0

a-donch (Jan 18, 2013 at 15:23)

Vital MTB Exclusive Interview:

Q: Did the Lance thing have any thing to do with your decision?
A: Hahahahah....Dude no, oh man, I crack up at that.....It's a totally separate sport, separate deal. I am definitely not in the know enough to even start to make a judgement on who did what, or what's right or wrong...yeah, I am fully separated from that deal.

@Protour...Aaron Gwin is literally laughing at how stupid you are.

38 5

originalpinche (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:13)

sucks for trek.

16 2

will-castaneda (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:16)

they are in the position specialized was when sam left

31 2

will-castaneda (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:17)

tables turned bitch

23 5

Azamac (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:18)

YOU DA MAN AARON, fuck the haters!! yeeehaaaa

22 0

ncrider5 FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:19)

It does suck for trek, but at the same time, its the dude riding the bike that is going to win the races, not the company, I dont care what bike Aaron Gwin is on, I'm sure it will be moving fast

4 23

TrekSession8 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:26) (Below Threshold)

Lol I like that specialized paid him 10million to leave trek.. I think I would leave for that too

14 1

hoolydooly (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:27)

Where did you pull that figure from?

9 17

suicidedownhiller (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:31) (Below Threshold)

Yeah no shit, the bike industry as whole doesn't have that much money

65 3

sherbet (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:31)

Sucks for Trek? BS. Sucks for Gwin. He did awesome promotional work for their brand, and this is how they thank him?

It sincerely burns me that companies can do this sort of media whoring with no repercussions. They can lie, point fingers, and generally attack anyone they want without basically any fallout.

Here's to you Gwin. Keep on Gwinning for us!

Trek. Please be the grown up company we all know you can be, and stop the litigation and lawyer BS. He was your rider, not your dog.

13 6

sie7e (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:32)

dont think its tha same that happened with Sam, my bet is he was dropped. Lets be honest, his golden days are over and he ways filling specs spectations.

5 7

matthewtongue (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:45)

where the hell did you see that he got paid 10mil? i doubt specialized's gross sales on mtb's in a year would be that high. he certainly wouldnt be living in temecula if they did pay him that much though

2 11

originalpinche (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:52) (Below Threshold)

would* temecula is such a boring town. Being payed ten million you think he would move to laguna or something.

3 10

DaddyWhite (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:56) (Below Threshold)

Sucks for Trek? Trek sucks. Nickel and Diming never got anyone anywhere.

11 0

trailjunkie12897 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:57)

Are you kidding? Cycling is a multi billion dollar industry. Specialized as a company is pulling in hundreds of millions every year from all of their sales.

7 3

flamshmizer (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:02)

Specialized also make road bikes which pull in some rather substantial dollars.

5 19

Jonny-Only (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:16) (Below Threshold)

Ha ha ha, "Specialized as a company is pulling in hundreds of millions every year from all of their sales." I'd love to see those books!

These threads never cease to entertain. Here, let me make something up now: Aaron Gwin's new contract is $40 million/year to ride for Specialized plus a bike for every day of the year. Also, his race bike is made of Adamantium, so you KNOW it's gonna be fast!

2 1

finnrambo (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:36)

I could believe hundreds of millions, they do after all make cruisers and kids bikes which do sell far better than demo 8s/epics/venges/tarmacs

7 0

slc-ripper (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:39)

Why no unobtainium?

24 0

smike (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:45)

According to Forbes, Specialized sold an estimated $500 million in bikes and accessories in 2011.

www.forbes.com/forbes/2011/0523/opinions-rich-karlgaard-innovation-rules-hippie-capitalist.html

2 7

Jonny-Only (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:46) (Below Threshold)

finnrambo, you're totally right. The examples you've provided make it crystal clear. Specialized may even be approaching sales figures closer to... billions of dollars annually. Probably off Tarmacs alone.

4 0

smike (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:48)

Half a billion.

5 1

Jonny-Only (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:00)

Way to put me in my place smike. I guess I'll just leave my foot in my mouth. ; )

"Specialized's brand of hippie capitalism has lifted the company to an estimated $500 million in sales of bikes and accessories."

Maybe Gwin should ask for an unobtanium ride...

15 0

smike (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:09)

The lesson to take away from this is that while it is dangerous to state facts without checking them, it is equally dangerous to dispute them without checking as well

1 0

Chaindriven (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:52)

Bah hahahaha!

1 0

davek86 (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:41)

So over all this bullshit now, buying people out of contracts happens all the time in other sports if that is what has happened, and if it is not what has happened according to Gwin, then more fool TWR for missing the opportunity to keep him on.... Gwin seems to think that they messed up on the their paperwork, which is the part that TWR are saying is the bit that Gwin broke. Anyway, he is at a new team and time will tell if it was a good move, he has got some big results to live up to!! Lets get racing!!

2 1

dhpig (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:42)

Who said Gwin's contract was in US$? He is getting paid 10M peso.

3 0

Goatryder (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:11)

Golden days over? World champ in 2010 coming back from injury. A healthy Sam working his way back in 2012 was 5th overall. Here's to more in 2013.

1 1

finnrambo (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:16)

I doubt billions off of tarmacs, everybody I know has a crappy bike to get around town of some sort, only a few have dedicated road bikes

1 0

matthewtongue (Jan 10, 2013 at 20:17)

@trailjunkie i meant in downhill sales. should have been more clear

1 0

wesdadude (Jan 10, 2013 at 20:54)

Trek is definitely the one to loose out here. TWR (who aren't a factory team) go on winging and everyone associates it with the bicycle manufacturer and not the team. With Lance and the doping then this, Trek's reputation is in deep trouble.

1 0

konacowan7 (Jan 10, 2013 at 21:57)

trrek is clearly not hurting for the moolah either look at there current and previous rider lineup

1 1

humblegirlscout (Jan 10, 2013 at 22:40)

Gwinny be da best mon, and he ain't gon let nobody tell im wot to do. Restecp mon!

13 2

snl1200 FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:34)

TWR and Trek are two different things. Aaron won a lot of races on a Trek rig so regardless of what he is signed to ride next year, Trek's bikes have proven capable. Shame all this stuff has been thrown to the public in such a classless way regardless of whose made the mistakes. TWR may have done more harm to their program with how they've dealt with this than losing Gwin would have caused. Can't wait for people to stop talking and start riding.

1 1

nico100 (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:41)

Thank you TWR the team maybe being a bit petty I think here. but the Session is a freaking mean bike and Trek itself puts good money and effort into the sport. The more firms putting money into World Cup racing just makes the sport stronger. People need to relax a small amount and realise that everybody and every team is needed to keep the whole thing firing. A little drama on the way is a sideshow.

1 0

finnrambo (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:17)

feel bad for trek, the best thing they could do now is fire whitely publicly and apologize for TWR's actions

1 4

Protour (Jan 11, 2013 at 8:19)

Trek sucks for letting Armstrong bully them and they deserve to die as a bicycle company.

1 0

snl1200 FL (Jan 11, 2013 at 9:23)

There are few company's to race in the tour without riders who have been busted for doping. Specialized is no exception.

10 0

Dhrmoto (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:23)

Sounds like he's just taking charge of his career so not to get stuck in a bad spot. There is a real ugly side to pro cycling . I would believe AG over any corporation and especially over a management company. Agents only job is to sell you to companies and broker the the highest salary not what's best for you or your career. Higher salary equals more of a cut for them I stand behind AG no matter what !!!

19 6

cuban-b (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:28)

Trek World Racing = wankers

17 6

mrgiggs42 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:50)

sam kick his ass this year...GO SAM!!!!!

7 2

dvbwn (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:17)

yeah right -

4 2

jaybird951 (Jan 10, 2013 at 4:17)

yeah right, second that.....

4 0

EuanBisset145 (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:56)

Sam has as much chance as any other rider in the top 10 of winning, could go any way at this stage. Also there's extra time until the first world cup this year so things could get interesting!

1 1

konacowan7 (Feb 17, 2013 at 1:09)

go steave smith go

7 0

Tjswa341 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:25)

Gwin is the man, and I wish him the best. At the end of the day TWR sounds like a bunch of sore losers. Giving Gwin a discount contract in November...... What did you expect? lol

10 0

Sp-Lit (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:52)

All the hate towards Trek should really be directed at TWR if anything.

1 0

burt-reynolds (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:13)

That's the thing, Trek sponsors TWR so in turn it is Trek that is responsible. TWR is the one that made the mistakes, but Trek is responsible for them as well. I could be proved wrong, however having "Trek World Racing" as a separate entity might be only a business decision to split the company into other companies in case the shit hits the fan.... which it did.

5 0

pedalposer (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:23)

id like to pose the question.....if your boss came up to you before your 1 yr review and talked about a salary increase and possibly benefit increases, but when the time comes for the review and what is written down in the review is not the same as what was talked about, are you going to sign the review anyways? how would you feel? would you start to look else where? or keep your options open? perhaps this is what went down between Gwin and Trek.

1 0

jaybird951 (Jan 10, 2013 at 4:18)

well said, pedalposer. this happens all the time.

1 0

bryantaber (Jan 10, 2013 at 6:57)

Allegedly......but I 100% agree. Looks like Gwinn had an equally shrewd agent in HIS corner. I am sure we all eagerly await the next golden nugget to fall out of 23 Degrees/ TWR's a*shole to stir the pot. You know they cannot resist and honestly...The suspense is killing me!!!!

7 0

JustRideP3 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:18)

Any publicity is good publicity right? Look how much Gwin's name just came up heading into a new season

4 0

hollowing2000 (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:29)

WOW!! Downhill racing has never been this exciting in years!! Before, news was just of one man dominating (Hill, or Vouilloz). People wanted excitement. New winners. Now we already have it - and some drama to boot! I mean high profile changes and transfers. Overall I think this is a good direction that the sport is heading. More people will be interested, more ruckus and more publicity. And we have a very good top ambassador (Gwin) too! I'm so excited for 2013!!! LETS START RACING!!!!

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Old-Man-Eggy (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:04)

Dear Trek Bicycle Company, perhaps it's time to have a "word in the ear" with TWR ? Seeing as they make heavy use of your company's products, name and money they should be reminded that it makes them in some ways ambassadors for your business. All this current "business" is not good business at all.
......is your marketing dept still on their Christmas holidays?

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boxxer27 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:46)

Trek and 23 degrees are different companies. It wasn't necessarily trek behind all this and really they shouldn't be taking as much heat as 23 degrees should. And to Aaron, as a fan, I appreciate this. It goes a long way. I hope no legal stuff gets involved. It would be a shame to see this go downhill. Sad to see you go but good luck in the coming season! And I wanna see that new signature tld lid!

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dutchflick (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:12)

Am I the only one here thinking it's still FISHY, even after Aaron's statement:

1: if I get a full contract late November, which is not to my liking or what has been agreed on orally, I would aim to set that straight (with Trek). Hey guys listen, this and this and this...and we have a deal.

According to this statement, it sounds to me that Aaron was just waiting for the slightest reason to breach or not sign his contract with Trek, because he kinda made a deal with a company which offered him more money (supposedly) or whatsoever after he agreed staying with TWR...

2: I doubt that Trek is a shitty contractual partner. I have never ever heard of crap like this before, and besides TWR they also support Freeride pros for years now (Semenuk and the likes).

Of course one could argue that 23degrees is to blame, but even those guys have a f%$#^&@ clean reputation. They're not in the business since yesterday, and screwing people (which is what this statement makes it look like) can't be their core competence.

Under normal circumstances Aaron would have worked out a contract with 23D/Trek that WAS according the deal they initially made. If that would have been impossible he would have said: Thanks, my time here is over, and Trek would have announced sometime end November/ begin December that Gwin isn't riding for them anymore.

Getting these statements mid January can't be just the fault of one big enterprise. And the fact that Whiteley is so upset tells me that there's more going on here.

Think people...why would it take Aaron seven weeks to communicate that he didn't like what's in the contract? Gettin' what I'm saying?

I would like him to come forward with the true motivations for his move. I for my part don't eat the big crap being served here...sorry...

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Nobility (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:32)

Exactly, he should just tell what his true motivation for not honoring an agreement is (contract or letter of intent whatever legal bullshit you call it), and if that turns out to be money, good for him but just be honest about it.

All the mindless uninformed bashing of either Trek, Specialized or Gwin is just downright ignorant!! the only people that really know what went down are the people involved.

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sino428 (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:08)

The first point you made is one that has kind of been sticking in my head a bit too. Based on the statements released by both parties, this Letter of Intent was more than just some handshake agreement to sit down later and work out a contract. They clearly had agreed to some fairly detailed parameters of a deal.

But like you said, if the contract he received wasn't what he thought it was going to be, wouldn't he call TWR to address his concerns? If he was making a good faith effort to work out a deal, how do you not even return any calls? Hiding for weeks while working out a behind the scenes deal doesn't seem like the professional way to handle things.

At the end of the day, no one knows what happened. But from the mile away view which is all we have, I'd guess that neither side is squeaky clean here. But that's business, its not always smooth sailing. Gwin is looking out for Gwin, and TWR is looking out for TWR as they both should be.

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burt-reynolds (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:18)

Why would you give them a chance if they low-balled you? I sure as hell wouldn't after winning two overall titles for them and what, like 9 WC races?! I think that the contract issue is only part of the situation. It's only speculation as was stated. Money talk and bullshit walks.... especially when risking your life for a paycheck rather than only fun.

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sino428 (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:40)

First, how do you know they low-balled him? Maybe he was looking for any reason to bolt?

Second, even if they did low-ball him why not call TWR and say that? Why not call them and say, F-you, you low-balled me, no deal. To simply not return phone calls seems unprofessional. If your going to walk away, just walk away.

The only reason to be shady and hide would be because he wasn't sure if he could get a better deal and he was playing both sides here (it was smart). He was probably shopping himself while avoiding TWR knowing full well he had their offer in his back pocket if he didn't find anything better. Specialized lost Hill and likely came calling with a better deal so he took it.

Like I said this is business, relationships fall apart. Just my point of view based on what I read is that both sides were looking out for their best interests (as they should), but both could have handled it a bit more professionally. No one is evil here, it just is what it is. It happens sometimes.

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thecarpy (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:15)

Now that some more light is being shed on the situation, it really doesn't look like Gwin did much wrong.

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Nate-Clark (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:19)

Someone switching teams really should not be that big of a deal. Especially not something for 23 degrees to sue over.

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AlexRose (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:25)

Why is everybody making so many assumptions!? We haven't heard the OFFICIAL story from BOTH sides yet. This is how fake rumors start... I know I speak for many of us when I say i don't want stupid drama to be apart of this great sport/lifestyle. If you want to create drama, then go hang out with a bunch of 13 year old girls...

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cuban-b (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:32)

I think alot of the hate is a result of Trek World Racing's responses in the past few days regarding Gwin's departure

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eluder FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:04)

"then go hang out with a bunch of 13 year old girls..."

Isn't that the user profile here?

23 degrees, isnt that some boy band?

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Calicopter (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:08)

AlexRose, the answer to your question is that sooo many people these days suffer from Cranial Rectalitis.

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AlexRose (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:21)

What do you mean "Isn't that the user profile here?"

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Paul-h (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:39)

I have to laugh at all the Trek bashing, Gwin if one of the worlds best riders he is at the hight of his career there is no argument to be had with this, he road for one of the worlds best bike manufacturers there is also no argument to be had with that. Trek will be on top this year there is no doubt about it, as will Specalized WHY well yes in part to the riders who ride them but the real reason is there bikes run by a huge machine, mechanic, engineers, scientists and manny more professionals the rider is only a part of this machine an important part but none the less a part. Every body is loosing sight of the fact riders are riders they exisist at the top of there game for a short time then they move on bike manufactures have been there for years and will be there for years to come........

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Waldon83 (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:22)

All this to the side Mr Aaron Gwin, I still want Sam Hill to win all the races this year. It's nothing personal, I just like him winning

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a-r-c (Jan 10, 2013 at 4:18)

I know how to settle this. Pick a track, any track. Gear up Martin Whitely, Seam Heimdal and Nigel Page and let them race for pinks.....I assure you that Mr. Page would blow their socks off. Now I am not saying that Nigel Page is the best team manager, but he has been the most professional and humble through this whole thing. Personally, I feel the 23 degrees and Mr. Whitely should pack up their shit and hit the road for being such a bunch of a-holes. Does that fat prick even ride a bike or just eat?

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trillot (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:48)

Funny, everyone here seems so black and white in taking sides as new info is released. AG says he didn't sign the contract because it wasn't the deal they had made... however no details on how different the precise terms were. Notwithstanding his lawyers have advised him not to comment - those details are critical. Are we talking something so trivial as changing the color of his bike or something as fundamental as reducing his compensation by 20%. Probably something in between, but until I hear details like that, it's hard to make an informed opinion and pick a side here. Just sayin'.

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Ruaridh1 (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:47)

I don't wish to be the party poop here but
C'MONN !! Get real please is he Gwin really saying that he & them (specialized) never got together prior to all this shit hitting the fan !!

He was cooo'd away from TREK no danger he was flirted with & good on TREK for standing firm as he has totally made an ass of TREK

My opinion is he thinks he's the daddy but beyond the uci he thinks he can do what the hell he likes !! TREK should sue his ass after everything they done for him ! Look don't be fooled we will probs never find out the truth but my weight is firmly with the belief here that something don't add up !! "That dog don't hunt Gwin" bullshit

I ride an ORANGE Alpine 160 /2012.
Nothing to do with bike / team shit

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timkoerber (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:26)

Chill the f*ck out man. TWR (not Trek) has no grounds for a lawsuit. Read the story, understand the facts, and take the word from the man who has never said anything to let us doubt him. If anyone has reason to be concerned about a lawsuit, it would be a counter-suit against TWR for libel/slander/mudslinging.. but I doubt we will see that. Gwin seems to be one of the most stand up/straight up riders out there and has done absolutely nothing wrong or unethical.

Just when I thought teams and racing was beginning to get stagnant things have really shaken up and its looking to be an excellen year for racing.

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Karpiel073 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:17)

Can't wait for this years WC!!

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JanRusko (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:59)

YEAHH mee too can't wait to see the outcome of those huge transfers between team's Go Sammy,Go!

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ibis09 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:26)

Enough said. Go show us how you ride the demo now for TWR to drool on.

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slag-society (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:05)

Anytime a brand loses a champion they get pissed- it's the nature of every brand wanting to be number 1. In the end it's about $$ for both parties, Aaron as an athlete making a living and Trek as a brand continuing they're image/ product.
Best of luck to Aaron and Trek- I am sure they will be just fine.

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monstertiki (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:22)

Whoa... trek better think things through or they could end up doing some pretty hefty damage to their rep that will hurt their bottom line. imho they should wish gwin the best of luck on his career and move on.

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lostcanuck (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:44)

As this saga goes on, there is still something I don’t understand.

Both Greg Minnaar and Brook McDonald are managed by 23 Degrees and therefore Martin Whiteley, is it just me or isn’t that a huge conflict of interest between Santa Cruz, Trek and Mondraker?

As for Gwin, he was just doing what all professionals do (if we work for money we are professionals) in getting the best deal with in his means.

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bryantaber (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:52)

What is Whiteley's relationship with TWR. Is he a completely seperate entity or are the 2 companies joined?? Does he work for the riders or does he work for TWR? Is he a management company or an agent??

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lostcanuck (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:16)

This is directly from 23 Degrees's Website

This dynamic Sports Management company was founded in Spain in the year 2000 and takes its name from the fact that planet earth spins on an axis of 23 Degrees, giving it the four seasons. The company was founded by Mr Martin Whiteley, an Australian who had previously worked in the sports administration field for more than 15 years. For the five years prior to forming the company Mr Whiteley was responsible for all offroad cycling disciplines at the International Cycling Union in Switzerland, with direct responsibility for the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup (1996-2000). Prior to this he was the CEO of Cycling Australia for 10 years. In recent years 23 Degrees has managed some of the world’s greatest mountain bike athletes, designed the 2004 Olympic XC Course, and run three of the most important teams on the World Cup circuit. Global Racing Team (2001-2003), Team G Cross Honda (2004-2007), and presently Trek World Racing.

It goes on to show a list of a athletes under their management, therefore there rep both TWR and the competitions main athletes.

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dirttrailsociety (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:42)

This is all about business, there is no loyalty, so each have to look out for their best interest. But for sure one will be a bitch about the situation. I like watching Gwin do his thing, so no doubt he will also give Specialized the full hundred.

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dutchflick (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:50)

glad I don't have to do business with you...if it was like that you'd be screwed tomorrow by your local grocery store, the power supplier, your wife/girlfriend...

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Robgraham (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:19)

still think its nasty he left trek this late on, I dont things there anything wrong with him leaving but doing it this late aint right, why did it take a month to realize the contract wasnt the same? also if there were specific terms he was looking for why sign a letter of intent? After leov retiring and now gwin leaving its left them deep in it and that the team that just helped him to 2 overalls....
Sean Heimdal did seem very sly in his interview an didnt seem bothered about loosing a rider hes had on his roster for 10 years i reckon hes had all this on the cards way longer than they make out - would explain why specialized had such a patchy team last year an why they wouldnt give mitch a full contract straight away, makes sense not to sign people up before they know who they got. I say shame on you specialized - thats desperate that they will let a rider determine the name of their team.
Either way cant wait for next season

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timkoerber (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:36)

I'm pretty sure that if @teamrumours had an idea that Gwin might head to Specialized, then TWR probably knew that he was also looking elsewhere, it would be naive to think otherwise really. It would seem foolish to assume that a Free Agent wouldn't (and couldn't) shop around for the best deal available, especially when his current contract is coming to an end and he is at the height of his career.

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Robgraham (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:46)

why shop around?????
He signed the intent letter so he wanted to stay with them then, please lets not forget he just won 2 overalls so why change anything?
He wasnt a free agent he signed an intent letter - thats him saying dont worry guys im staying with you. Fair enough he has his right to look around but thats a sly sneeky thing todo.
If hes the saint your making him out to be why didnt he release a statement like everyone else saying bye and thanks, its not un common Paul Genovese posted one today - yet after 2 of probably the best years of his life with trek he leaves without saying anything.
Btw just because some rumours didnt get out dont mean they werent talking - maybe they didnt wanna piss people off an get law suits involves..............

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rockin-itis (Jan 10, 2013 at 19:43)

see's Protour comment....hits down-prop arrow..."props already given".........damn............hit's down prop arrow.......damn........hits..........dammit all......gives up.......buys seatpost from BillyM.......feels much better about life........see's Protour comment.....dammit........

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dfiler (Jan 11, 2013 at 6:05)

Wow, how easily people commenting here are swayed. First there is a lot of Gwin basing, now that's changed over to TWR bashing. The thing is... we don't know jack shit yet. Either side could have acted immorally or illegally. Or perhaps just one side did. Or perhaps neither side did anything that bad. That's right, we know pretty much nothing.

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miketat594 (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:36)

Honestly, I thought 1 of the key things that kept DH racing exciting was the simple fact that it's not a team sport. It's rider against rider not bike company vs bike company, it's a sport to test the ability of the rider vs terrain vs time. I see all the blaa blaa blaa from everyone so concerned if Aaron rides a Trek or a Specialized , and how this bike is shit or that bike is shit. Well to sum it up !! It's an oppinion, which is why you have a choice in what you want to spend your money on to ride. Aaron will do well on whatever he rides whether you agree with his bike choice or not, so unless you are giving him his bikes or signing his checks. Why is anyone giving a shit???? You either like him as a racer or you don't and since he didn't screw you over , there is no reason for Aaron to have to give any of us an explanation for whom he will ride for. I ride with people with different brands of bikes and some people are faster than others, and it has nothing to do with what brand they ride but more to do with how they ride. In other words none of these bikes suck, He can win or lose on any bike and unless you pay for any of his stuff!! Your opinion is as worthless as titts on a bull, so just go ride whatever bike you choose and stop spending so much time worrying about things that don't concern you.

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dvbwn (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:19)

yeah, except a few bikes do suck

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miketat594 (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:12)

In it's own way your correct, example Jamis Dakar Bam 2..An aggressive rider will kill them all day and now where your incorrect, The Dakar may be great for a begginer or an easy going female rider or light weight rider, so you won't hear me bad mouth the Dakar or the Jamis company or any of it's riders , for the exact matter of fact that if your bike was a perfect set up for you and your riding style and it performed perfect for you every ride then there is nothing bad about your bike. Now if you lend me your bike for a week to say. Now every time I ride your bike the rear dropout snaps with half a day of rocks, drops n jumps that my bike handles on a regular basis. So if you and I go ride and you ride my bike without problem with only minor fit issues and lack of full confidense because your bike your more used to and also never does you wrong, and yet I tell you your bike sucks am I then correct in telling you your bike sucks. People all have their own budgets and where I may put more into my bikes than most and still be beat by the guys on the lesser bike that works flawless for him. By no meens am I saying going to Walmaet and buying the full suspension Pacific is in the comparisons here, I'm talking mid to high end DH rigs from reputable companies,

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dvbwn (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:03)

a little overthought/overexplained - I was only joking. but I get what you mean

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nouser (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:32)

I didn't realise so many solicitors and barristers logged onto Pinkbike...next time I have a legal issue that needs resolving I'll be straight on here

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droyles92 (Jan 10, 2013 at 2:08)

to be fair its been a tough year for trek on the whole, with lance armstrong admitting to doping and losing the best mountain bike rider they have every had. They have lost 2 of the greatest riders they will have ever had in 1 year and i dont blame them for putting up a fight but i do wish gwin the best at specialized im sure they will look after him very well

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GingaCal (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:43)

I think this could have been handled a bit more professionally from all parties.

The way that specialized released the news was terrible... A 30 second cell phone quality video of Troy Brosnan picking Gwin on the pinkbike poll with no details at all for another three hours, is not the way to announce the signing of the most dominant rider in the world at the moment, especially when the whole biking community was under the impression that he was riding for TWR for another 3 years. Then, when the press release came out, there were no details at all as to how the deal came about which led to some negitivity toward their newly acquired rider. I think it would have been smart to hold off on the news until all of the crap between TWR and Gwin had been sorted out.

Then, the 23 Degrees announcement... While on the team, Gwin was super professional and represented the sponsors so well. For 23 Degrees to turn around and publicly announce that they may peruse legal action on their most successful rider yet is childish. It also seems like they tried to low-ball him when the actual contract arrived. That's not how you treat someone who has brought the team 9 World Cup wins in the past 2 years with a 100% podium average. I'm not surprised that Gwin decided to leave if that was really the case.

And lastly, Gwinny himself... I feel bad for him. He wasn't given the contract he was promised by TWR and I understand that must have been a huge slap in the face after his performance over the past 2 years, but an effort to contact 23 Degrees to sort it out would have been good.

Either way, I hope Gwin kills it next year, and I hope that TWR can put together a solid team as well. Maybe this is a good opportunity for Brook McDonald to ride for a great team and find that consistancy he's been missing.

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pencil-sr (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:15)

With all of this crap going on, I feel that TWR is acting like a jealous ex-girlfriend. Specialized is obviously a more classy company. Their top rider left them for another team, and what did they do? Complain? NO! They released an awesome video to thank him for all that he had done with them. That is classy!

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ajayflex (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:42)

I think most of, if not all, the contraversy has risen because Gwin is the best rider on the circut, he's the man the to beat. It attracts a lot of attention. TWR will snag another top rider, GwIn will continue to dominate, and we'll all forget this ever happend. (what ever "this" is).

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chatel44 (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:17)

EVERYONE KEEPS TRYING TO SEPARATE TREK FROM TWR....BUT, AS THESE NEGOTIATIONS WERE GETTING CHALLENGING, SOMEBODY AT TREK DROPPED THE BALL BY NOT STEPPING IN AND MAKING SHIT HAPPEN TO PROTECT THE WORLDS TOP DOWNHILL RACER AND KEEP HIM HAPPY AND ON THEIR BRAND. THE ONLY COURT CASE HERE NEEDED TO BE BETWEEN TREK AND WHITELY BECAUSE THEY FIRED HIS ASS FROM TWR AND DECIDED THAT WHAT THEY REALLY WANTED WAS TO KEEP A STOKED GWIN ON A TREK FOREVER. BIG MISTAKE TREK. NICE OFF SEASON VICTORY BY SPECIALIZED.

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chase873 (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:32)

Your caps lock is on

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bmxf1 (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:36)

Wow AG put it straight as far as I'm concerned, interwebs have been blowin up the last couple a days and of course everybody thinks they know what's happenin behind the closed doors. What Gwinny did was give us all just a pinch of what's really goin on. He's the the one being professional about the whole thing meanwhile over at Trek it seems they're butt hurt cause they missed out when they had the chance, and now they've publicly hit the "UH OH!!!" button. Best of luck AG get that 3rd tittle and keep rewriting history MOTO STYLE!!!

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dfiler (Jan 11, 2013 at 13:18)

What? Both parties have been acting basically the same. They have a legal dispute and both believe they are in the right.

I have nothing against Gwin but it would be naive to blindly believe one side of this argument. We don't know anything at this point.

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deliriumlee (Jan 10, 2013 at 23:16)

bunch of soap opera... TWR crying over spilled milk. I cant wait till the race season starts. Gwin on the demo carbon with Troy and Sam on a Nukeproof. Rob commentating. ahhhh good times.

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melsie (Jan 11, 2013 at 3:11)

All of this is hype is Fickle........why even care what the truth could be? Preceding this statement was a great wrap up from 'no $$$$ but love riding' Death Grip racing....epitomising for me what riding is all about.....screwing up lines, nailing lines, having fun hanging out with mates...riding bikes. Less comments but more relevant I think.

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butcherboi (Jan 11, 2013 at 16:04)

At the end of the day trek are just pissed off because they have lost the best rider on the circuit at the present time ! Trek have been un professional about the way they have gone about it and need to put their dummy back in and get on with it !! All the best gwin for 2013 and I look forward to seein what u can do with the demo 8

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konafox14 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:18)

I can't wait for him to "demo" the demo for us

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dvbwn (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:21)

ha demo this demo!

www.pinkbike.com/photo/3933241

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hwipwill (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:21)

Trek's managers and team can go cry to mommy, the limited edition Gwin trading card is lost in the win, the big rich bully Spec just grabbed it up. DH PRO riders, the new fad in trading card games.

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ButtonPusher (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:38)

Well, if what he's saying is true (and I don't doubt it) then he had every right to leave. Not being contractually bound and having something less than what was initially agreed upon be the new contract, then by all means leave...
Seems like TWR used the fact they had a letter of intent to make his contract less than discussed, which is a low move on TWR's part. But, not an uncommon business move. Either way, it's especially low considering he gave them the name that's been held in such a huge regard the past few years in the DH scene (outside of SS)...

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teamdescent (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:03)

A letter of intent is not legally binding and just means "I intend to sign a contract IF I like it" Clearly they changed the terms and he didn't and went with a better offer. I have had the fortune to meet Aaron and spend some time talking with him. He was patient and friendly to everyone from the kids to the nosy grown up fans like me. I was a fan before I met him and after even more so. I am glad he is moving to a team that will do everything they can for him and I cant wait to see what he does on a full carbon Specialized. Not to mention having a hand in new product development.

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Fastjohn1 FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:30)

i back gwinny on this for sure. trek wants to make aaron look like the bad guy, but all he has done is rejected his deal and signed with specialized. go gwinny make it 3 overall titles in a row!

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Downhill340 (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:48)

Have always had respect for Aaron but now I seem to have even more for him . Everyone's on Aarons' side now so if Trek pursued legal action , even though it seem they have no grounds for it they'll destroy their image and reputation.

They're just scared because he left while he's still on top and now that he's "excited to race than he's ever been" he could possibly do even better.

They should just accept the fact they've lost him and try find a rider that can fill his shoes.

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jor4s FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:49)

In the uk things like this happen all the time in the premier league...

A football player doesn't sign his contract as he isn't happy, the contract expires he then becomes a free agent and in some cases the player leaves your beloved club half way through the season and then is playing for your rival team the very next week.

Everyone just needs to get on with it, it's life!

If trek were not quick enough to meet gwins demands/needs then more fool them...

They've just let the best thing that ever happened to trek world racing go with no-one to blame but themselves.

Good luck gwinny, all the best for the 2013 season.

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BeerGuzlinFool (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:12)

Twr should have worked out a new contract with Gwin months ago. Offering him a contract he hasn't originally agreed to at the last possible moment shows they where trying to low ball him. Trek needs to get twr under control. They are giving trek a bad name with the way they are behaving.

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cragus-t (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:20)

I never used to like Gwinny, I always took him as some kind of podium robot with no personality. Now I see him for what he is: A pure professional with personal drives to be the best he can be. Great bloke!

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dhpig (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:20)

Don’t be so quick to throw Martin Whiteley under the bus. Notwithstanding his role with TWR, he has been one of the main driving forces behind the marketing, development and growth of the DH World Cup circuit. Remember when Freecaster bailed on providing coverage, it was Whiteley who negotiated replacement coveage.

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EuroinSF (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:02)

Frankly, how do we know that Gwin really wasn't given the contract he bargained for? You almost have to say that as an excuse for not signing the final agreement. As far as i am concerned, we really don't know the facts yet. Was Gwin promised more money, smaller wheels, different outfit, more days off, .... Were the supposed differences material or minor? If the contract really was materially different from what had been negotiated, did Gwin actually object to Trek and say this is not what we agreed to? Or did he just go with Specialized without addressing the problem? Gwin may well be the innocent party here, but we should know all of the facts before vilifying either party. Sadly we probably never will know.

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scriz (Jan 10, 2013 at 16:12)

I posted something along these lines on Vital: Gwin said pretty plainly that they changed the terms, and I'm inclined to believe him. In the end it doesn't really matter what made Gwin want to jump ship. Yes TWR has to have time to make their final budget and shop around for sponsors ( using AG as leverage ), but that's the game of being a promoter. Sometimes you have to eat a loss, sometimes you profit hugely by underpaying a rising star. That is why teams hedge their bets with multiple riders. The fact that TWR has attempted to publicly defame Gwin's character is what is completely *unprofessional* in this whole scenario. Martin has been in the game long enough ( and been on the other side of the coin ) that he should know how to handle his business. Win some, lose some.... he should have just kept is trap shut and tried to poach Gwin back next season.

Also, it's not like Specialized is not taking a big risk either. As we have seen time and time again, there are no safe bets in DH. For all we know Stevie Smith ( cross fingers ) will dominate next year and TWR will be trying buy him from DeVinci!

1 0

galliwasp (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:33)

Rouge opinion and useless anecdote to follow. Were 23 Degrees to sue and win, how could Gwin in good conscience ever ride for Trek World Racing and actually want to win for them? "Screw you guys, I'm going to ride slowly this year, ya goobers." It just wouldn't work. It seems Trek is shooting itself in its own foot. Politics aside, I'd still ride a Trek. Realistically, however, I can't afford one anyhow. I'm going to throw an Angleset into Belladonna's head-tube, chopping the b!tch down to 64.4 degrees, and I'll happily ride her this year (I realize that no one here gives a crap what I think -- *smile*).

Come on, summer!

Give 'er the biscuit, Aaron!

Wee-hoo!

1 0

yozer13 (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:53)

its a lot like this:
say you went for a job and they said you start on a 3 months probation period you will be on X £ per hour during this time.
After this if you get taken on you will be on the big bucks so Z £ per hour.
you do the three months and they then say we will take you on but its still X £ per hour...

you would just give them a F**k off tablet and get a job that pays what you want....

2 1

andyd2506 (Jan 10, 2013 at 13:36)

at the end of the day he signed a letter of intent, a letter of intent to stay with Trek he should of upheld his end of the deal and not jump ship at the last minute he is unprofessional how would he like it if trek had waited till the last minute then said oh sorry gunny but your dropped? Gwin is behaving like a girl here not Trek.

2 0

ajayflex (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:31)

You should differentiate between signing a letter of intent, and upholding his end of the deal. Sure there is a bit of a black hole, interms of time frames of information going public, but it would do everyone a here a great service to hold your tongues while the full story comes to light. A few fishy things from both sides of the fence, sure, but like Gwin said in his statement, he cant divulge more information at this point. So until that time comes, keep a hat on your emotions, your conclusions, and your insults.

1 0

phobospwns (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:39)

A letter of intent doesn't really mean much... essentially "I'm most likely going to end up with you". Think of NCAA Football. HS players sign letters of intent, and then go back on them constantly. Usually a change of coach, or something of that nature is behind it, in that case.

There's a strong parallel here. Gwinn basically said, you're my first choice, Trek, and when something changed to his dislike, he went with his second choice... Specialized. It wasn't like Trek didn't sign him away from Yeti in the first place... Trek got the good end of that deal, and Yeti bowed out respectfully. Trek should take a lesson from Yeti here, and bow out respectfully.

The drama alone is just another reason to turn me away from Trek products... never liked them as it was, having worked at a Trek dealer myself.

1 0

PatMcG (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:08)

i havent been the biggest fan of gwin in past years, but i have big props to him for the way hes handleing all shit strom thats going around. and look forward to seeing him sherd on the demo! i love the fact that about 5mm of my scroller bar is the pb story and the other 20cm is all just comments. shows evey ones pashion for the sport.

1 0

Gawdodirt (Jan 11, 2013 at 15:20)

Lets look at it this way. If he rides for Specialized and wins, it will prove the he truly is a great rider and that the bike doesn't make the rider. If he does poorly it will prove Trek makes a better carbon downhill bike and will probably boost Treks sales. Either way, average people, like me, can use his coming events to learn.

4 0

noeleon (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:44)

I think Gwin could do well despite what team he's in

1 1

tonnel2000 (Jan 10, 2013 at 4:34)

Martin Whiteley…. Massive FOPAR, very poor show. In a vain attempt to under hand and then, muddy the reputation of your ex-rider, you seem to have bought a degree of shame too your whole organisation? It would not surprise me if Trek distance themselves from your outfit at the earliest opportunity. I’m sure both parties have a hand in the whole issue; that’s just business, But getting all bitter and twisted is a little sad. Mr Gwin will defo be going out of his way to beat his old team, now you have threatened him with legal action. Poor Business practice on your part… Shame on you.

1 1

Night-Spirit (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:03)

This is my first time every commenting on any post or video, but due to this I had to. Aaron did the best move possible, he signed a temporary contract, received the final terms that were not what was agreed to. Then moved to Specialized since they honored the terms of negations. Great move great respect, and massive props on the honor for keeping ya mouth shut and not disclosing the corporate greed. This just solidify s my love for specialized even more and now I am turning my nose to the corporate slugs who try and ruin people for financial gain.

2 2

Ruaridh1 (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:52)

And another thing !! Do you really think that TREK would be stupid enough to get in their lawyers if it was as open & shut as Gwin says --- really ?

"I didn't sign" C'mon Man !!! Bullshit guys

If it was that simple why in the hell would they be perusing his ass

Reality check for all u saddo's !!!

C'MONN Gee & Danny H kick the scabs butthole !!

1 0

cyrix (Jan 10, 2013 at 13:01)

There's a reply button, it allows you to nest your comments in line with your other comments instead of just starting a new comment tree. I can take a a screen shot and highlight it for you if you'd like me to my good chum.

That said, you're talking out of your ass without all of the facts. How about we wait until everything is aired out before you go and put on your tin foil hat and start carrying a pitch fork and torch?

1 0

dutchflick (Jan 10, 2013 at 23:56)

talking out of your ass...like 96% of all comments here, you mean?

1 0

iketaxi (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:02)

The very best of luck for the 2013 season to both Aaron Gwin and Specialized. Regardless of what is going on, thousands of us will be cheering you on and looking forward to watching you race ;-) All the best at Specialized.

1 0

superpowerphil (Jan 10, 2013 at 16:54)

wow, that's whole lot of stuff written on pure speculation.... I just came back from a nice ride on my favorite ''after work'' trail and open up the computer to this. You guys need to chill out and go ride.

4 0

DemoB (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:15)

Good on you Gwin, clear the air for us.

4 0

Cyphereza (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:50)

Let's move on. Now, where are the spyshots for Gwin's bike?

1 0

Kapricorn (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:36)

Hint: it's the one without Sam Hill on it.

2 2

tylerthegiant (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:26)

this is turning in to the armstong drama. obviously trek cant stand by there riders. trek drops lance cause every one says he is doping, gwin wants to move on to bigger in better. this just shows how trek treats there riders.

7 2

erikthefatty (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:56)

Who cares?

4 0

mikeinjasper (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:03)

I also retract my former Gwin-bash, Im a dick! Best of luck in 2013.

2 0

klerric (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:46)

Bottom line...Gwins gonna kill it this year. Also he is happy which speaks volumes. Keep all that legal shit behind as it will lead to the dark side.

5 1

Arin (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:32)

Aaron,You're a STAR. Support from Israel!

1 1

airsoftesneeto (Jan 10, 2013 at 2:40)

You would think that trek would give aaron whatever he wanted after winning 2 world cup championships. I am happy for you Aaron, I pray that you are able to focus on your training more and more and give all your worries to God.

1 1

neimbc (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:33)

Hey Trek had the fastest guy on the planet - an American for an American company to boot - and they blew it! They have the pockets to have matched Specialized, but waited too long and came up short. That's the world of Sports Athletes. Anyone of us would have done the same thing.

1 1

nf99 (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:48)

Funny that everyone is quick to blame Specialized, yet Trek gets a free pass. When Sam left Spec, it was Spec's fault. When Aaron left Trek, it was Spec's fault.....hmmmm OK.

TWR has a close enough relationship with Trek to blur the line between them for most fans. The fact that the Youtube video even exists is at least circumstantial enough to cast doubt on TWR/Trek's intentions with Gwin. I mean, social media is one thing, but the video sounds like an interrogation where the purpose and dialogue is scripted such that it might be evidence for future use. Is that playing out now?

When Sam left Specialized, regardless of the terms of the deal, they created a respectful media piece to thank him and send him on his way.
When Gwin left Trek.............

1 0

ajayflex (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:37)

Whos blaming specialized?

3 0

Schmitty (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:36)

Pin it to win it, Gwinny!
Stoked to see you on Specialized and in a full TLD kit.
F%ck politics! Just race!

2 0

yvidal (Jan 10, 2013 at 14:27)

Ok...now I want to see Gwin exploding a Demo in epic race runs face to face whit Sam on the Nukeproof. And everybody was hapy!

1 1

ErwinR (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:00)

I see alot of post sayying that they know Gwin got paid $10 million by $pecialized. That is inacurate.

I know a guy who knows a bike shop janitor that has an aunt that is a fortune teller.

They said Gwim got $ 189 billion a year.

1 0

aljoburr (Jan 11, 2013 at 1:32)

It sucks when good riders get pushed around by manufacturers wanting to sell more bikes
here is a bike that would be an advantage in muddy conditions
www.flickr.com/photos/91970417@N02/8359493418

2 0

EJ4444 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:28)

Gwin's Trek jersey that was sweepstaked on here, just got a lot more valuable

2 0

pankuucinjsh (Jan 10, 2013 at 6:23)

How I hate when good riding becomes to contract signing and money grabbing.

2 0

williamrudy (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:59)

so,still you think that Gwin was paid more by Spez to move to specialized DH Team ? hmmm

2 0

thetev (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:30)

gwin contract www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=p8K5UUmsQJU

1 0

cuban-b (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:50)

hah, this was posted on Trek World Racing's youtube channel yesterday. then they took it down, probably realizing it's not good publicity to air this out in public.

1 0

sir-digby-chicken-caesar (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:23)

ha ha i'm loving this. exactly what is needed in the sport, bad guy/good guy, lets fight/ride it out. its not a f**ckin love in in. this is compitition. lets 'ave it

1 0

Stuuriaan (Jan 11, 2013 at 3:43)

I can't wait to see Gwin snap those demo's in half like little twigs XD the guy is brutal on the bike I'm very interested how that carbon demo will hold on rough tracks

1 0

intensevpp (Jan 12, 2013 at 5:49)

let it go Trek this makes me want to buy Specialized even more. I don't like to see large corporations push the little guy around. Good luck this year Aaron

2 0

mojojojoaf (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:57)

MAN this has all the ear markings of professional wrestling. The hero and the heel, good vs bad. Lots of drama. GO AG!

2 0

chris9888 (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:18)

If AG won 2013 DH World Cup, it goes to show that biker's count and it has nothing to do with bike.

1 1

ridethree (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:08)

it is all about the rider i`ve known that forever

1 1

flowyridestilltherestofmylife (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:25)

It`s always about the rider. I ride S but I`m not affraid to say it.

2 3

kootenaycycles (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:58)

thought us bikers were better than multi million dollar race car and dirtbike dudes. i ride bikes because mountain biking didnt have selfish fucks bitching over a dollar. not kool not kool, oh and steve smith for the win gotta have my canucks back

3 4

rainan (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:03)

II think all of us Pinkbike readers are with yuo Aaron. It's wery bad that things went this way; it was disgustive to read "Mr. Gwin" instead of "Aaron" in Trek's statement few days ago and it was even disgustive to read about legal action and lawyers. That's not the way our sport have to go.
I think all of us will wait that things get clearer with time and heard the full truth on Pinkbike's "pages".
You are Americans (Trek, you Aaron, Specialized, etc), you have such weak employment laws that it's very easy that one can lost its job in one day so I don't understand the disappointment when things are in the opposite way (one decide to move in one day instead to be fired the day after).

Good luck Aaron (or I have to say Mr. Gwin?)

1 0

OlSkoolJake (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:06)

I guess this season we will all finally be able to tell if it was man or machine, behind all of Gwin's wins on the World Cup.

3 0

brazilian-monkey (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:56)

G-win=G-money!

No one knows the truth!

2 0

felipearaujo (Jan 10, 2013 at 7:47)

cala a boca o macaco, vc q nao sabe de nada!!!

1 0

brazilian-monkey (Jan 14, 2013 at 5:23)

kkkk,,,,,sou advogado e sei que o gwin assinou uma carta de intenção, apesar de não ter implicações legais isso da um certo suporte no sentido de organização da equipe em questões de estrutura, com a quebra da carta de intenção ele prejudicou a equipe TREK-World, e com certeza a specialized deve ter acertado com ele o pagamento de eventuais indenizações decorrentes da carta de intenção.

2 0

ridethree (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:06)

trek still makes awesome bikes as well as specialized and thats all that counts

2 0

Mirks (Jan 10, 2013 at 5:48)

just goes to show two in the hand is worth more than one in the bush (or in this case a letter of intent)

4 1

ryantheodore11 (Jan 10, 2013 at 6:56)

whatever you say Aaron, I believe you!

1 0

mattsavage (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:13)

I wanna know if he's still on Fox Racing Shoxkcs...? Since Spesh is only providing frames and tires, does Sram come with the deal like Hill had?

5 3

thisusernameisnottaken (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:28)

Trek is doing great lately...Lance, now this debacle

4 2

WillCaldwell3 (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:07)

Gwin will win this if they sue.

4 2

J-Train (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:16)

GWIN UR A FREAKIN STUD!!!! Keep being the person I look up too!

8 0

dvbwn (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:28)

^ this post : taken from the back page of Aaron's high school yearbook

5 3

csthomas (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:17)

Gwin's the man, USA for life!

2 1

Apookjumper (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:35)

I hope you do awsesome this season man!! always been a fan and we share names

1 0

Mike3300 (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:07)

Specialized better hire a few bouncers to secure Gwin's bike during the events, just saying.

4 1

bikingrhino (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:09)

Hands Up for Gwin! :-)

1 0

chillzrace (Jan 10, 2013 at 6:35)

It is almost like the hockey lock out debate here. Who cares just ride your bike.

1 0

jamesjcook10 (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:04)

It doesn't matter what company he rides for as long as he enjoys doing it still and makes it down. The hill fast

2 0

senderlikebender (Jan 11, 2013 at 2:51)

I swear protour has no life he just argues with people on pinkbike

4 1

chochocho (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:15)

yay.

2 1

rockin-itis (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:26)

Do what you have to do Aaron. It's all good. Take care of number one, and that's you man.

3 0

elchap (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:32)

STand up guy rite here!

3 2

nouser (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:37)

Trek shouldve given gwinn anything he wanted , the guy made trek relevant again!!! Keep ridin strong gwinny

2 0

JCSmith (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:17)

Trek World Racing not Trek its self.

6 3

gavlaa (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:25)

WHO GIVES A SH*T?

1 0

randybadger (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:32)

I was going to say something really clever. But after seeing that I am truly speechless.....

2 1

mountianbikebelgium (Jan 10, 2013 at 2:59)

gwin also signed with TLD incase you were wondering

i got an email from them!

2 0

rubbman (Jan 10, 2013 at 6:15)

HEY GWIN can i have your old trek???

1 0

suicycler (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:55)

It's for sale, it could be yours www.pinkbike.com/buysell/1253729

1 2

benstrain123 (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:06)

Trek need to chill and be more like Specialized, do a farewell video or something. Take ideas from the market leaders trek- being a woman about it isnt helping your reputation.

2 1

Hardstyler (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:48)

Lets start a petition to send to Trek to tell them to grow up n stop whining!! Ill start... Hardstyler

1 0

MooMoo2323 (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:32)

The background of the POD page still says, "Great athletes ride Trek...Aaron Gwin, TWR" - hahah love it!

3 0

GeeDempo (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:38)

Aaron Gwin RULES!

2 0

michael-douven (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:45)

Ok.. This was fun for a few minutes. Lets move on.

1 0

jsmurthwaite (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:47)

My thoughts on this storm in a teacup. I hope you enjoy jamessmurthwaitedh.blogspot.co.uk

2 0

galambas (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:03)

you're the next world champion. Cheers to you buddy

2 0

panaphonic (Jan 10, 2013 at 13:33)

I don't know why I read these comments anymore.

1 0

BangDalish (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:39)

I am looking for the next announcement....Blackbox rider for SRAM! Cheers Gwin! Have a good 2013 buddy! Braap

1 0

lilstud852002 (Jan 10, 2013 at 18:34)

good luck finding another downhill winner TREK Fricking love Specialized they understand how i want to ride a trail

1 0

shawnca7 FL (Jan 11, 2013 at 18:38)

Great statement from Gwinny. Still showing class, as far as I'm concerned.

1 0

as-capture FL (Jan 11, 2013 at 21:37)

its not official yet, but brook bulldog macdonald was spoted at redwoods in rotorua on a session 9.9 in full TWR outfit!!

1 0

Ben-Harrison (Jan 12, 2013 at 13:05)

I dont care who's done what or who rides for who or who slept with some ones mom - lets just ride bikes and enloy it!

4 3

EJ4444 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:22)

You tell em Aaron! #Gwin4Prez

2 1

TheCanuck (Jan 10, 2013 at 6:09)

He's still on two wheels, why does it matter who he rides for?

1 0

Idyllix (Jan 10, 2013 at 6:26)

gwin pooped OMG we must do a news

1 0

zeroack (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:54)

Ahhh Hello drama, I haven't seen you in awhile. How have you been?

1 0

maxcv10 (Jan 10, 2013 at 10:57)

I'm just gonna let the 2013 season do the talking

1 0

madmax245 (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:11)

love how many negative props protour has got

1 0

mountainbikematt (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:27)

Letter of intent does not = contract. Case closed!

1 0

nakamuchid (Jan 11, 2013 at 7:22)

good luck Aaron with "SPECIALIZED" we still behind you till the end

1 0

DownhillisChill (Jan 12, 2013 at 3:18)

Well Trek now has Brook McDonald not too bad!

1 0

De5tr0yer (Jan 12, 2013 at 18:29)

Internet is full of shit.

3 1

novajustin (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:15)

Awesome

5 3

surgesunday (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:36)

AG for President!

2 0

Relentless211 (Jan 10, 2013 at 19:49)

itd be better than the stupid f&*k thats in office now..

3 1

n1ck FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:25)

Looks like a TREK.

3 1

medina (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:19)

Gwin for meme, now!

2 0

dnlparr (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:29)

your the man gwin.

2 0

jclnv (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:43)

Go Troy!

2 1

demrgo69 (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:32)

Are we support the athlets or the brands?

2 0

fedz (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:50)

you decide !!

2 1

bok-CZ FL (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:24)

who cares? go on Aaron, ride it like you stole it!

2 1

Keskiyo (Jan 10, 2013 at 0:47)

Guys, where can i find those awsome Red Bull full face helmets to buy?

2 1

Pr0-Moo5e (Jan 10, 2013 at 3:18)

You can't, they're for Red Bull sponsored riders only

2 0

mattsavage (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:15)

Here you go: www.ebay.com/itm/Fox-V3-Helmet-Red-Bull-Full-Face-V2-DOT-Protective-Gear-DH-TLD-D3-661-Shoei-D2-/221175724192?pt=Apparel_Merchandise&hash=item337f19b8a0&vxp=mtr

1 0

Keskiyo (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:23)

Thanks Matt, but that one isnt looking so cool as the one we see on rampage and other competitions(and is a "bit" expensive)...i think the only way will be pay some artist to paint my helmet.....

1 0

fedz (Jan 10, 2013 at 13:53)

I don't know if there's anything in it but Gwin has just developed a new helmet with BELL. It's called the Full-9 Helmet and has a custom design including a Hollywood scene-scape designed by Gwin's helmet painter 'Tagger'. It's a carbon lid and comes complete with the new Helmet Eject Removal System. Comes with integrated GoPro mount.

Until now Bell helmets did nothing for me...

$349.99 from Madison.co.uk

4 3

Aibek (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:04)

Sorry, for being an ass!, Trek you SUCK!

4 2

fedz (Jan 10, 2013 at 1:50)

Gwin's a true pro !

3 1

Oscarmonk (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:04)

go Gwin go!

3 3

a-r-c (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:43)

Maybe martin whitely will lose some weight now that his paycheque is about to shrink, get a life MW!!

1 0

mattsavage (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:11)

You wanna sell me your old Sessions you don't need anymore? PM me!

1 0

PoeticThreeD (Jan 10, 2013 at 9:51)

imgur.com/3RMZv

nuff said

1 0

LukeTrek85 (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:17)

This years rider moves to new teams has more drama than a soap opera!!!!

1 0

dansands (Jan 10, 2013 at 15:51)

i want to see gwin v.s trek on jeremey the kyle show!

2 0

canadiandude1974 (Jan 10, 2013 at 20:06)

I blame the parents.

1 0

mikebike69 (Jan 10, 2013 at 21:01)

haha jokes on you Trek, no one wants your bikes anymore

1 1

Brubug (Jan 10, 2013 at 4:40)

It seems like the TWR and 23 Degrees are only aiming for the fines......

1 0

Ruaridh1 (Jan 10, 2013 at 12:04)

Hey where's my post !!!!

1 0

Relentless211 (Jan 10, 2013 at 16:28)

Either way go gwin!!

1 0

symon666 (Jan 12, 2013 at 9:33)

i love lamp

8 8

justinhartney (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:16)

trek is being so butthurt

18 2

justinhartney (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:52)

Trek World Racing*

3 2

skippy888 (Jan 9, 2013 at 21:37)

DEATH to 23 Degrees?

2 1

gnarbar (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:04)

meh.....soap opera

3 3

mudmandhbrazil (Jan 10, 2013 at 8:13)

this soap opera is brakin my balls!!!!!!!!!!! this is not Downhill r

1 1

chase873 (Jan 10, 2013 at 17:34)

Who cares?

3 4

kurmo FL (Jan 9, 2013 at 22:16)

How do I get all my negative props back? I atoadaso, l fn atoadaso.

1 4

cikudh (Jan 9, 2013 at 23:57)

yeah!!

"looks like a Demo8" sounds trendy right now.

"Danny! stay on bike!" never get old .........nuff said! now, where is my bike??

6 8

Xc2dh1 (Jan 9, 2013 at 20:24)

I love you man.

2 5

a-r-c (Jan 10, 2013 at 11:53)

Whitely is a douce bag!