February 18, 2013 (Montreal) – Argon 18 is proud to announce its new collaboration with UCI Continental Tour team Amore & Vita. The Italian squad will now benefit from the Quebec, Canada-based bike maker’s vast experience and technological prowess. This new agreement is remarkable because it links Argon 18 with one of the oldest cycling organizations in the world, Amore & Vita having been founded in 1948.

Thus the partnership will create a complementary blend of Argon 18’s cutting-edge technology mixed with the team’s long, rich history and forward-looking programme. “We’re really happy with this new partnership, which confirms our growing presence world-wide,” commented Argon 18 president and ex-olympian Gervais Rioux. The Amore & Vita riders will obtain all the benefits of our know-how and technologies, putting them in the best possible position for success from an equipment standpoint. We are proud to be part of this new adventure.”

Created in Tuscany by Lorenzo Fanini and with a 30-year history as a pro team, Amore & Vita has allowed more than 5,000 riders to participate in the world’s most demanding and prestigious races. The organization is truly a pillar of cycle sport, boasting 60 national titles, 13 world championships, 15 stage wins in the Giro d’Italia and having seen exceptional riders come through its programme, such as Mario Cipollini (12 Tour de France stages, World Champion 2002) and Miguel Martinez, Olympic Cross-Country Champion, 2000.

“This is great news for Amore & Vita”, says Christian Fanini, manager of the Lucca-based squad. “This collaboration with Argon18 brings us to a whole new level: these bikes are incredible, I’m convinced they will let our riders make that crucial difference at key moments during races and will help them achieve great performances”.

With the Gallium Pro’s perfectlybalanced blend of rigidity, comfort and light weight, Amore & Vita are well set to launch their 2013 race season, during which the team will be a noteworthy presence at many high-profile events.

A Pro Continental team since 1990, Amore & Vita presently includes Israeli Road Champion Niv Libner, UCI Asia Tour 2012 winner Hossein Alizadeh, as well as the very promising Canadian David Boily (2nd, Tour de l’Avenir 2011). Boily first made his presence felt while aboard an Argon 18 as a member of Team SpiderTech and is happy to once again enjoy the Gallium Pro’s outstanding performance on his way to further racing success. Last but certainly not least, Argon 18 is particularly pleased and proud that its new associate Amore & Vita has stood out on the scene as a model programme in the fight against doping.