Feb. 9, 2004 – USA Cycling, the national governing body for the sport of cycling, has gained support from two new sponsors for the 2004 Olympic year. Continental Tires will be a supplier to the U.S. Track Team and Kinetic Trainers will supply thirty five trainers to the entire U.S. National Team.

Continental has signed on to support the Track Team for one year. The company will provide tubular tires, clincher tires, tubes, and glue. Continental produced its first bicycle tire in 1891. “They have been in business for over 100 years and continue to lead the international race scene,” said USA Cycling Team Operations and Equipment Manager Alan Sekowski.

The production facility is in Korbach, Germany and the seasoned staff uses the most advanced equipment and know-how to produce the highest quality tires available. “They are considered the industry standard in tubular tires for track racing,” Sekowski commented. The knowledge of professional teams and athletes provide the company with the real-world conditions with which all tires are tested.

Kinetic Trainers, made by Kurt Manufacturing, will provide thiry five trainers and power sources to the U.S. National Team. The revolutionary design of the Kinetic Trainer was awarded a patent for its leak proof fluid resistance unit. Fluid trainers provide riders with the ability to maintain indoors the same feel and resistance that an outdoor ride would give them. One major issue with fluid trainers is leaking. The Kinetic Trainer is engineered not to leak, and the fluid chamber is totally sealed. The cast aluminum housing is also designed with over 80 cooling fins. The trainer is engineered so that the beginning of the workout feels the same as the end, and it maintains a consistent ride and delivers the proper amount of resistance. One of Kurt's main goals was to exactly replicate the power required when riding outdoors under standardized conditions.

“Their constant professional attitude and dedication toward building the best training for each athlete,” said Sekowski “puts them head and shoulders above any trainer on the market.”