In the hype surrounding the spectacular new Flash and RZ products from Cannondale, the fact that Cannondale is also coming up with major innovations in distribution was almost overlooked a little at the trade fairs. From the 2010 model year, the European subsidiary in Basel will take over the sales and marketing of Schwinn and Mongoose in France, Italy, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Like Cannondale, GT and Sugoi, the two bike brands belong to the Cycling Sports Group (CSG) of the Canadian conglomerate Dorel.

The reason for the change in the distribution structure is that Schwinn and Mongoose have hardly been present in Central Europe in recent years. CSG now wants to use its own well-established distribution network to help Schwinn and Mongoose make a strong comeback. The other two Dorel brands GT and Sugoi are to remain in the range of their existing distribution partners for the time being, as they have done a good job for the brands.

The current Schwinn range is mainly geared towards the entry-level segment and includes mountain bike hardtails, trekking bikes, racing bikes, fixies and electric bikes in addition to the legendary cruisers. As a mountain bike brand, Mongoose focuses on long-stroke fullies and dirt bikes, but the range also includes some hardtails, cross-country fullies and urban bikes.