Red Bull Road Rage – Ultimate Speed and Control

The Red Bull Road Rage came off as one of the hippest and most unique road events of 2005. Nineteen invited athletes, including a high proportion of World and National Champions, were invited to test their descending skill on a winding 2.5 mile, 2000 ft. road descent in Malibu, CA.The goal was to find the fastest rider in an individual time trail format as well as a 4-up elimination. At stake was a $10,000 prize purse including $1,000 for the rider who held the highest speed through the Avid Speed Trap.

Avid, SRAM’s brake technology division, sponsored the Speed Trap and also served as technical sponsor of the event. Because the Rage’s unique race format, which would test the boundaries of traditional road brake technologies, Avid’s neutral support and Ball Bearing Seven (BB7) road disc brakes were offered free of charge to all competitors.

For full Red Bull Road Rage results go to: www.redbullroadrage.com

As riders reached speeds close to 60 mph through the Speed Trap, both racers and technicians focused on technology, specifically braking. More than a third of the riders adopted the Avid BB7 disc brake option. The greatest advantage of the Avid BB7 disc brake is superior stopping power. Additional advantages include better brake modulation, more predictable and consistent power through all conditions, and increased safety with decreased heat transfer to rims, tires and tubes. The Rage course illuminated these advantages, as perfect entry and exit speeds through the 47 hairpin turns over a leg breaking 4 1/2 minute sprint would be critical. Paul Kantor, Avid’s Product Manager explains that “riders go faster more safely on disc brakes, especially throughout longer descents when both rider and rim fatigue become a factor.”

Avid understands that better brakes don’t make a rider better, but a more confident rider is essentially that. Those athletes who rode the brakes agreed that the BB7’s made a difference in how they rode.

The UCI has yet to legalize disc brakes as an option. Avid will be organizing an effort to legalize better braking technology in racing. Avid also continues to work with leading frame manufacturers to have disc brake tabs an option on specific road models and most cross-bike offerings. Avid will continue to pursue advancements in road bike disc brakes, and other braking technologies, that will enhance the riding experience.

Avid BB7 Top Speed Trap speeds:
Steve Bauer – 57 mph
Carl Decker – 57 mph
Todd Tanner – 55mph
Devon Vigus – 55 mph
Marty Nothstein – 53 mph

For additional information please contact Michael Zellmann:
Phone: 312.664.8800 ext.1367
Email: mzellmann@sram.com

SRAM is one of the world’s largest suppliers of components to the bike industry. Established in Chicago in 1987, SRAM continues to promote cycling through its products, its advocacy, and its employees, who are all dedicated to improving the cycling experience.

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