Dean Lucas and Charlie Harrison Part Ways With Intense Factory Racing

Jan 2, 2019 at 5:04
by James Smurthwaite  
Lucas and Harrison aboard the infamous IFR soul train .

Dean Lucas and Charlie Harrison have both confirmed they will be parting ways with Intense Factory Racing for 2019. The past three years have seen the Californian brand became a a podium force once again with one of the prettiest bikes on the circuit in the M29 but it seems it's time for this era to come to an end.


bigquotesCheers everyone for an awesome 2018 season! Farewell to our boys Charlie Harrison and Dean Lucas, they surely are gonna be missed! And also to our Team Manager, Bernat Guardia, good thing is that he will still be involved with us at Intense Cycles. We will keep you updated soon with the 2019 team rosterIntense Factory Racing

Dean Lucas

Lucas and the IFR boys had a bit of mare out there today with 2 crashes and red flag between the three of them. Still Sunday is when it counts.

Dean joined the Intense team three years ago from the Devinci Global Racing Team. Despite being struck with injuries a number of times, he finished second at Mont Sainte Anne last year, third at Losinj this year and followed it up with another top ten in Mont Sainte Anne.

Dean said: "All good things must come to an end at some point and god this was a good thing! From being on a team with a close mate I grew up racing with since we 14 to being surrounded by young positive America teammates, we had a lot of good things going.

"It definitely became more of a family than a team and that’s why it saddens me to say that 2018 will be my last year with Intense Cycles.

"It’s been one hell of a ride though over the last 3 years with lots of ups and downs through injury’s and podiums but there’s still not a lot of stuff I’d want to change!"

Charlie Harrison

Team rumours are swirling and Charlie Harrison wants a big result to end a season as a mainstay top 20 rider.

Charlie joined the team two years ago and was soon consistently delivering top 20 results. He backed it up this year with his first ever top ten in Mont Sainte Anne and a Crankworx podium in Innsbruck.

Charlie said: "Intense Factory Racing has made these last two years unbelievable. My first factory team, my first time racing a full World Cup season, first top 20 overall, first top 10, and tons of other firsts. The people that helped contribute these last two years have given me smiles and laughter to last a life time. The relationships and bonds that we formed will go far beyond the race track. Not only was I blessed with a fantastic staff, but I was lucky enough to call some of the most special people I know on this earth not only teammates, but brothers. We went through ups and downs, individually, and as a team.

"I wouldn’t trade the experiences we got to share for the world. Thanks to Intense, I was able to reach the next level in my racing and progress as an athlete. My gratitude goes beyond words. With that being said, I have decided to move on for 2019 and beyond. It’s been one heck of a journey. I’m ecstatic to share with you guys within the next few weeks of where I’m headed for the future. I honestly couldn’t be more confident and excited to see what the future holds with my new team!"

Author Info:
jamessmurthwaite avatar

Member since Nov 14, 2018
1,770 articles

141 Comments
  • 264 1
 Gwinters Coming.
  • 63 3
 Nah he’s just breathing hard.

You know, from all the zeros on the check and stuff
  • 10 4
 I was thinking Athertense. If the trio are still unsigned.
  • 14 19
flag thesharkman (Jan 2, 2019 at 12:11) (Below Threshold)
 @JmtbM: if Intense didn't mind mediocre results they could just save money and keep Harrison and Lucas instead of bringing on Gee, which comes with Rachel. They want instant cred like YT got. It's good business.
  • 11 1
 Gwin puns are the Gwintesence of Pinkbike
  • 5 0
 @thesharkman: gwin is gonna be top 5 overall next year
  • 3 0
 @szfetbb: The wait is gonna be GwIntense
  • 2 5
 @thesharkman: but gee is gonna win it
  • 5 0
 @thesharkman: Yeah why would you want the guy that came 9th overall last year, with overall and world championship winning history on your team? Clearly mediocre results...
  • 4 0
 Gwin Neko and Charlie riding for intense would've been a pretty epic team America
  • 4 2
 Its beGwinning to look alot like christmas????
  • 2 0
 Holy hell...they still have 2016 complete bikes for sale on their website for $5000!!!
2016???
Maybe the new team will ride 3 year old bikes to prove how timeless their bikes are???
  • 1 0
 Fak yea man
  • 65 1
 Seems like a win-gwin situation...
  • 31 2
 You all know what it means
  • 16 9
 I gwin't know.
  • 8 2
 wrongn't
  • 77 5
 As much as I like Neko and respect AG's riding, I hope Shark Attack has a killer comeback year and smokes them both - YEAAAAAAAAAAH
  • 14 1
 @endlessblockades: YYYEAAAAAAHHHH!
  • 18 3
 I'd love nothing more for Dean Lucas to join the Devinci team once more (Especially since he has a decent presence in the Vic riding scene) . Especially if Gwin goes to Intense and loses a race to him by a bee's dick . All the best to these guy's. They're just a couple of good ol' boy's throwing some dust in others faces
  • 2 0
 Dean is not going to Devinci ... (Rhymes with Trek).
  • 12 0
 @racecase: Shrek?
  • 3 0
 @racecase: heck?
  • 3 0
 @racecase: scott to be kidding
  • 1 0
 @ddddhhhh: Yeh, it is SCOTT- his teammate will be going to Trek...oops, did it again.
  • 5 0
 @dbc3 They're a couple of good guys, it's true,but INTENSE wants to try to win, they are results, it is sport and business.... climb the level, increase sales and enter the Legend of the MTB with a local broker that can overcome Vouilloz in World Cup. These guys are young and they can be in a good team winning races in the next few years, but right now they are not. To me as a fan of Aaron that I am, I'm excited to see him with INTENSE :-)

Sorry my English is not too good.
  • 2 0
 @MilleniunFalcon: i very much agree with Intense's stand point. I may just be idealistic. Your English is good my friend, don't worry
  • 29 12
 Best looking dh bikes in the business.
  • 8 71
flag Krzymndyd (Jan 2, 2019 at 5:28) (Below Threshold)
 Because they look like a session!
  • 11 3
 @Krzymndyd: I know this may be hard for you to accept... but the Session joke has finally been put to rest.

Ironically there are more and more bikes that are always released that actually do look like one, but that is besides the point.
  • 13 2
 @Krzymndyd I’m confused, are you saying the intense M29 looks like a session? If so, they literally look nothing alike...
  • 9 4
 @SonofBovril: lol no it looks nothing like it. I am going for most down voted comment because most people on Pinkbike think it’s to old of a joke
  • 3 9
flag Krzymndyd (Jan 2, 2019 at 9:10) (Below Threshold)
 @chillrider199: easy Pastrana fan. I know going for most down voted comment
  • 13 0
 I think the Intense team of Charlie, Dean and Jack was a really positive group of guys who had a real team-like approach. They pushed and supported each other. Sad to see it come apart. Charlie and Dean have huge futures wherever they land. Best of luck boys!
  • 19 3
 this will be a Gwintense season!
  • 14 1
 Gwintense.
  • 9 0
 After seeing how quickly YT's business transformed, it's a no brainer. Bring in the big gun!!!
  • 8 4
 Or is it more that Gwin is Redbull sponsored rider and finishing in the top ten in 2018 still guarantees him and associated team bike television time thus giving a much broader appeal, both intense and Gwin are big in their respective back yards, I have yet to see any of their current model line up on a UK trail, here in North Yorkshire the loyalty seems to go to SC, Orange, Whyte, and Specialized, personally I ride an Ibis Mojo HD4 as I prefer something different, I think that Gwin / Intense only has appeal in the US, elsewhere I don't think people give a fu*k as Commencal is the brand to beat in 2019.
  • 3 2
 He didn't finish top ten.
  • 3 0
 Gwin finshed the 2018 season in 11th with 499 points.

www.scribd.com/document/387037155/Men-s-overall-2019-DH
  • 4 1
 The Gwin Factor adds value to any brands as long as he keeps gwinning. People may know YT offers good value but it's their athletes that brings real credibility to the brand. GWIN itself is already a good brand name, wonder if the man himself aware of it...
  • 8 1
 Gwin DEFINITELY knows he’s a good brand name. That’s how he commands such a huge pay packet.
  • 4 0
 New Primer and Recluse this year, then new tracer later in the year or next... lots of new bikes going to get released and promoted by gwin is a winner. Look at what he did for the jeffsy and new tues...
  • 3 1
 I know it probably to do with Gwin most likely now looking at going there, but how come Neko? Lucas and Harrison both had much superiorer World Cup season to Neko who looks well past his best. Why not keep at least one of them.
  • 8 2
 Neko won us national champs last season and is a major face on east coast mtb scene. His chainless run is in my top 10. He’s just as highly respected as Gwin at testing components or frames. Current wc results aren’t only thing that sells bikes or that sponsors are looking for. But i’d Bet Neko gets on podium again before he retires.
  • 2 0
 @bulletbassman: he's only 24 isn't he?
  • 2 0
 This was one of my favorite teams to watch this year. They always seemed to be having a good time on the bike and riders looked supported and positive. Excited to see what this season brings and all the best to Charlie and Dean.
  • 3 0
 Gwin riding an Intense Frameset, but labeled Mongoose. It’s been done before because of $$. Just saying. Laugh, Laugh. ???? ????
  • 5 0
 Gwinning
  • 4 0
 I wish he had a dance move or something for this. Or some well known ritual.
  • 6 0
 @sirsamwellingtonthefirst: His ritual is winning...
  • 12 12
 I don't get Intense decisions to sign Gwinn. it sounds like a bad business decision just based on the fact they are neighbors. Intense stands for American racing thru their history. They have not much to prove in the US especially in So Cal. Gwin stands for the exact same things so more of the same doesn't really give a bigger reach to a brand. It would have been a better idea to develop their market in Europe or other places in the world. Imagine the Atherton on Intense or even any European racers. It would make wonders to give some breath to euro sales. Their previous formula sounded right to me, some young american blood to stay true to their heritage and some aussies to spark some love and sales over there. I assume their sales in Australia looks better now. Gwin should be used to sell bikes in the US and that's exactly what YT a euro based company did to put their feet on the new world and it sounds like it worked well. Gwin on Canyon, Cube or any european brand would be a smart move but here I don't see anything good coming
  • 15 1
 Trek put the Athertons on their payroll and moved away a contract later. The UK market is particularly flooded with competition and a single high profile athlete (or 3 siblings in that case) is unlikely to put you over the top. Especially when most euros are going to by euro before buying american just from an economic standpoint.

However the American market is much more open, especially with Intense's move to add a direct sales system. A lot of Us kids are going to buy an Intense instead of a YT or Commencal with the market presence that both Gwin and Neko bring. I love watching Gwin ride a bike, and Neko is hero in the east coast MTB scene.

In one move Intense managed to put them back in the conversation as one of the top US brands, a position they used to hold and certainly have fallen from despite their bikes improving at the same rate as Santa Cruz, Trek, or any of the more dominant US brands. Also I'm sure intense remembers if paying top dollar for Shawn Palmer was worth it or not.
  • 2 0
 We do have the intense uk World Cup team. They’re much loved over here just really expensive although new direct sales has made them a lot cheaper
  • 3 0
 @Bigwill13: I'm not saying Intense shouldn't pursue UK sales. Intense has a style that is unique to the industry and there will always be a market for their bikes worldwide. Just that from a marketing standpoint it makes a hell of a lot more sense for them to focus on the US especially in terms of sponsorships.
  • 1 3
 It’s a money thing more than anything. It’s no secret that AG is going to ride intense bikes, it’s what they’re giving him to make it happen is the weird part. @bulletbassman:
  • 3 0
 @max2max what if they just want to boost sales period? Irrespective of geographical location. Maybe they'd just like to take a chunk out of Specialized's market share?
  • 1 0
 I'd bet a lot of used Intense bikes in the buy/sell section of pb would be snapped up by the time we finish Leogang next year.
  • 1 1
 @brihep: it must be a secret because Gwin isn’t going to Intense. He’s going to Rocky Mountain
  • 1 0
 @Patsplit: Ha, good luck putting a dent in that pie...either way excited if the rumor turns out to be true.
  • 2 0
 It ain't about marketing son. Its about stars and stripes and balled eagles.
  • 1 0
 @Ryanrobinson1984: I’m 100% sure that’s not happening.
  • 1 0
 @Ryanrobinson1984: see that announcement today?
  • 1 0
 @brihep: it’s a big elaborate conspiracy that you’ll soon see the point of...again, he’s going to Rocky mountain
  • 1 0
 @Ryanrobinson1984: uh no, he’s not. The intense deal has been done for a month, it’s just now being made public. I was sworn to secrecy.
  • 1 0
 Wow, what did I say three weeks ago about what they were giving him?

AG makes around 3m USD/Yr. it’s certainly about money especially now that he gets a cut from both ends.
  • 1 0
 @brihep: yes he is, idiot. Again, you’ll have to wait and see. Stop arguing with me
  • 1 0
 @Ryanrobinson1984: we need not resort to name calling and other childish nonsense. The news is obvious, the formal announcement and photo shoot are about as obvious as it gets beyond that, I’ve spoken with three of his sponsors directly before the announcement.

Stop making an ass of yourself.
  • 1 0
 @brihep: hey man, please stop arguing with me. Thank you my brother
  • 1 0
 @Ryanrobinson1984: than please stop trying to spread bad information when the truth is so blatantly out there. FFS do I need to go out to my local DH winter series and get pics with AG in his Intense Kit from the team that he now owns?
  • 1 0
 @brihep: hey man.....stop arguing with me. Where do you live? Do you live in NC by chance??
  • 1 0
 @Ryanrobinson1984: Southern California, 30 minutes from AG and Intense Cycles HQ. AG rides 20 mins from my house and Jeff Streber visits my shop occasionally.
  • 1 0
 @Ryanrobinson1984: BTW Jeff S is who told us, before the formal announcement. That’s also how I knew AG owns the team, again before the announcement.
  • 1 0
 @brihep: I gotcha man. I was mistaken and apologize about that. Intense is an awesome company and always has been, in my view. I think it will be an awesome team
  • 4 0
 money for Gwin
  • 1 0
 2 spots open up at intense with gwin and mullalay rumored to go there leaving 2 open spots for there predecessors to fill at yt... coincidence? I think not.
  • 2 1
 Fuck you pinbike!!! Always removing shit!!! What happen to freedom of speech. Neko does suck. No WC shit in forever a lucky chainless run.
  • 1 0
 Savage47- Pinkbike said- hey fuck you too Bittch!!
  • 3 0
 Shark attack staying put?
  • 2 1
 Hes going too
  • 4 1
 Actually, he could be staying. He said on his instagram that he is going to miss the crew but misinterpreted that he meant because those two are leaving. Still could be leaving but now im not sure. Id be surprised if they kept jack with gwin and Mulally
  • 7 0
 I'd assume he's staying, as otherwise they probably would've also included him in the farewell message to Dean and Charlie.
  • 2 0
 @BranGoe: He probably is not on the same contract schedule as Harrison and Lucas. Intense isn't about to tear up his contract.
  • 4 2
 @BranGoe: I’m surprised they aren’t keeping Harrison on with again and Mullaly, that would be the all American dream team. Just add DVO as a suspension sponsor...
  • 1 0
 @BranGoe: I took Moir's Instagram post as a farewell to Intense, but the Intense farewell to Charlie & Dean makes it look otherwise.

The DH world is a game of Plinko
  • 5 2
 Moir has left intense, announced last night unfortunately. I hope he lands on a good team because he is a good bloke and a talented rider. Same for Lucas.
  • 1 0
 @Brasher: you can interpret his post in several ways and I took it to mean he will miss working with some of the guys he has in the past. Time will tell....
  • 2 0
 @RCederholm: interesting thought, just re-read it and I can see how you came up with that.... My money is all 3 are off the team to afford the Gwinster and his buddy Mr Mullaly.
  • 1 0
 @Brasher: see what you mean. That said, if all 3 are on the team, it will be a good one
  • 8 1
 Yes i am staying put
  • 2 1
 @thesharkman: well there you go! Good luck mate. Yiewww
  • 2 0
 @thesharkman: Hell yeah brother
  • 1 0
 @thesharkman: If this Moir, you should have let this shit stew of guessing go on a while longer before chiming in. ????
  • 1 0
 @bizutch: No, its a troll
  • 1 0
 @Y12Sentinel: ahhh... good. Pot stirred
  • 1 0
 @bizutch: Yeah it threw me, does not look like moir from his comments
  • 3 0
 The power of christ compels you.
  • 1 0
 Gwin and Mullaly with Intense sound possible now !! many rider will change color in next week I think
  • 3 0
 make room
  • 2 0
 I think its a mustache thing
  • 1 0
 This gwintipation is killing me!
  • 1 0
 This is very gwintresting to read!!!
  • 1 0
 This year is going to be pretty Intense
  • 2 0
 it could be a long trek
  • 2 0
 Yeaaaaahhh
  • 2 1
 Was this photo taken in Movember?
  • 2 0
 oh my Gwin Big Grin
  • 1 0
 If you wanna win take Gwin! Gwin for a win!
  • 1 2
 Jack Moir also announced his departure last night. Clean slate for Intense. It's a shame because they were 3 guys on the way up!
  • 5 0
 Jack did not announce his departure.
  • 1 0
 jacks staying bro
  • 2 0
 @creativefletch: I just re-read his 'gram post... Very cryptic. Depends on what angle your head is when reading it how his intentions come across. I dunno!
  • 1 0
 @Brasher: he's staying for now - he confirmed it a bit higher in the comments here (thesharkman)
  • 1 1
 Can't be that good if it came to an end...at least not good for both parties...
  • 2 1
 Wtf!!
  • 1 0
 Big gulps huh...
  • 1 0
 GwinTense?
  • 1 0
 Frown
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