Maxxis with overseas race team again in 2004

Rumors circulated over the winter that Maxxis' overseas racing team would merge with that of Giant. But "Team Maxxis" will also return in 2004 with Turner bikes as its main partner. New Zealander John Kirkcaldie and American Colin Bailey will be competing in the downhill, and Canadian Geoff Kabush and multiple Colombian champion César Grajeles in the cross country. In addition, downhill rider April Lawyer will be supported on an individual basis.

Small but mighty: the Maxxis team may only have four riders, but they have already ridden to impressive results. New Zealander John Kirkcaldie, for example, is one of the most consistent and fastest downhill riders in the NORBA racing series. It is only logical that he took the overall victory in 2001 and 2002. His neo-teammate Colin Bailey finished third on the podium twice in the 2003 US Championships and in the Grouse Mountain rain lottery. April Lawyer is not officially part of this team: However, the blonde US downhiller has signed her own outfitter contracts with Maxxis and Puma.

Kabush: Challenge to Green, Hesjadal
Long-time KONA rider Geoff Kabush, who rode for Canada at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, is doing everything he can to be at the starting line in Athens. In view of the strong competition in Canada, this is an ambitious plan, as Kabush will have to outdo either Roland Green or Ryder Hesjedal in the battle for an Olympic ticket. The Colombian César Grajeles, a proven climbing specialist, will not only be competing on the bike, but also for the US third division road team "Jittery Joes".

After the downhillers rode Turner bikes last season and the only cross-country rider Kashi Leuchs rode a Trek "Fuel", the "Maxxis Team" is relying on uniform equipment in 2004. The frames will be supplied by Turner, with some hardtails being made especially for NORBA short track races. The gears will be supplied by SRAM, the suspension elements by Rock Shox and the wheels by Sun-Ringlé. The package is rounded off by SDG saddles, Truvativ components and ? of course ? Maxxis tires.