When we started using this hashtag, the intention was to echo Felt’s heritage in racing. It made sense. Our first frames were created for Kona World Champion Paula Newby-Fraser. Since then, we’ve always supported athletes through sponsorship and have used rider-testing input in our product development since we began. Racing (or competition) inherently beckons one to push oneself beyond his or her limits, whether that's from a mental, physical, or equipment standpoint. As a manufacturer, we’ve always understood this and have made it a central part of our guiding ethos.
But "racing" isn't just about formal competition. For many folks, toeing a start line isn’t important, or just doesn't fit in with schedules or lifestyle. The excitement found in a daily ride or an upcoming challenge with your own Start/Finish is key. At any level, in its purest form, "racing" is about the thrill. We honor that.
We all remember the sense of freedom and escape our first childhood bike ride gave us. Now, we have new reasons, new escapes, and new rushes to fuel our inner racer: set a new PR in your next triathlon, crack the top 10 on a Strava segment, descend that knuckle-grabber route, beat your buddy in a city limit sign sprint, or complete your first century ride. For us, the thrill of competition is there to grab wherever and whenever you want. And, as such, #racingmatters.
Selecting a high-end road bicycle for racing is a significant investment that requires careful consideration, but there are some clear-cut ways to better understand the various frame materials and component specs in order to cut through marketing hype and allow you to make an informed buying decision.
The time of year is fast approaching when many athletes will fly to their annual target events. When competing at a major event, it's important to arrive not only physically prepared, but also psychologically calm and critical to achieving this mental state, is to arrive at the race hotel or host-housing with your equipment intact.