Shimano presents: In Between the Races, a portrait of the painstaking preparation and fierce focus leading up to – and during – the UCI Mountain Bike World Series. In this episode, we join the Cannondale Factory Racing team on their journey from Lenzerheide to Leogang.

A lot can happen in a week. Especially when you’re part of the Cannondale MTB team. From the two mechanics down to Manuel Fumic, team manager and, vitally, passionate barista, everyone involved knows their role to perfection. The entire week is set up in stages, from packing up the show in Lenzerheide after the race to popping that post-battle bottle of beer at Leogang.

The route is plotted on Sunday, dinner is prepared, beers are opened, and smiles are shared. The Cannondale team traditionally invites three team members to give a reflective speech – after which, from Monday to race day, the moveable feast is locked and loaded for peak performance. 

Watch how this international team of mechanics, physios, drivers, and riders work together to bring out the human side of competitive cycling, fueled by precision, expertise, and Manuel’s delicious coffee.  

Photos by Michele Mondini

Share This Article

Related stories