Exclusive | Whyte Announce 2015 Gravity Enduro Team
UK bike brand Whyte pride themselves on their “performance by design” ethos, and since 1999 they have been building bikes that reflect the rugged trails on which they were conceived. We tested the new Whyte G-150 Works and thought it was a total rocket ship, perfect for winning enduro races. Whyte’s ears must have been burning as they have just announced their new 2015 Gravity Enduro Team and sponsorship partners. We caught up with the guys at Antur Stinog in North Wales to see what they were all about, and to experience some quality Welsh weather.
For 2015, the teams focus is clear. Team manager Neil Halcrow explains “All the Team riders are looking forward to the 2015 race season flying the flag for Whyte Bikes and our supporting sponsors, with the aim of improving on last years results in the UKGE and World Enduro events. Elite Rider Martyn Brookes aims to improve on his 4th place last year at the Trans Savoie, and Peter Lloyd to make his mark after moving up from Junior to Senior category in UKGE. We are really happy to have Carl Jennings joining the team for this year, who will be representing Whyte in Vets category at the Tweedlove and UKGE events“.
Whyte bikes are throwing both feet into enduro this year, joining forces with Scottish clothing brand Endura to headline sponsor the Endura Whyte Vallelujah Enduro and Whyte Endura Scottish Open Enduro. Considering this close partnership between the two UK based brands, it was no surprise to see the new enduro team decked out in full Endura gear. The Scottish brand know a thing or two about riding in bad weather so the team will be well protected.
Watching the guys ride, it is clear that they are a fun bunch, with serious focus.
Guy Farrant, Company Director at ATB Sales Ltd (owner of Whyte Bikes), was as excited as the team, “The Whyte Gravity Enduro team are excited to be competing again in 2015 and look forward to working with some of the best brands in their field for the race season ahead. The Whyte G-150 with its dedicated single chain ring design will be fully supported by SRAM on the drive side and suspension parts whilst Maxxis tyres will be keeping the riders firmly planted. The riders will be kept comfortable and efficient wearing Endura custom and stock garments with the new Giro Terraduro shoe keeping a firm link with the bike. The all-important head protection comes from the new versatile Bell Super 2R and the Full-9 carbon. The popular Gravity Enduro backpack, the Osprey Zealot, will carry the riders’ fuel, supplied by Torq energy.”
We caught up with the guys for a days uplift at Antur Stiniog in North Wales, where the rough slate filled trails would put the G-150’s to the test. As is typical for Wales we started in the sunshine and finished in a howling blizzard, but the team were happy smashing out the laps. The good natured banter and friendly rivalry was evident all day, and there was a clear feeling of camaraderie and friendly competition, especially when it came to big doubles. The fun and jokes could not disguise the teams motivation though, these guys have been training hard and are “in it to win it”.
For 2015 Whyte Gravity Enduro Team will be working with the following sponsors:
- Endura
- SRAM
- Maxxis
- Bell helmets
- Giro
- Osprey
- Torq
- Lezyne
- Sealskinz
- Invisiframe
- Rockguardz
- Juicelubes
- Oakley
For more information on Whyte Bikes check out their website, and for race updates and team pictures throughout the season Enduro magazine readers can follow the Whyte team action on twitter via @whyteracing14 or on Instagram at Whyteracing.
Words and Photos: Trev Worsey
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
