(BRAIN) — The BikeAid app is a global bike store locator with thousands of bike stores listed. The app is available as a free download for iOS and Android mobile devices. 

It helps users find the closest stores based on their current location, complete with directions to get to those stores. The app, from a New Zealand-based developer, already has store listings from Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., Canada, U.K. and South Africa, with more stores and locations being added weekly.

Bike stores can upgrade their store listing to a premium listing, giving app users more information about their store (group ride details, brands carried etc.) and the ability to tell users about any store specials or deals available exclusively via the Bikeaid app.

The app also has a "News & Info" section with a list of the most popular bike-related websites from around the world. Users can also submit details for a bike store from this section of the app.

More information and app download links at bikeaidapp.com.

SIMI VALLEY, Calif. (BRAIN) — Haibike plans to show a new Yamaha motor-driven collection of e-bikes at next week's Sea Otter Classic, which will mark the one-year anniversary of the Accell brand's introduction to the U.S. market. Also at Sea Otter, the brand will launch its new global marketing campaign, called "The Next Big Thing," and it will introduce its new U.S. sales director, Ken Miner.

"We accomplished amazing things in the U.S. in our first year," said Susanne Puello, the managing director of Haibike parent company Winora Group. "From successfully launching our initial seven models here, to winning the prestigious Interbike "E-Bike of the Year" Award, to exceeding our U.S. sales projections, it's clear that Haibike IS the next big thing!"

"In response to our strong start in the U.S., we've appointed sports industry veteran Ken Miner as director of sales of Haibike USA. He'll work closely with German headquarters to manage the growing U.S. business," she said.

Miner helped introduce BMC's Stromer e-bikes to the U.S. market and most recently worked for Mahindra GenZe as its e-bike category sales manager. He also founded and ran the independent sales agency 365 Sports. He said he plans to use his sales and management experience to expand Haibike's existing distribution, support IBDs, and open additional channels.

"Haibike's offerings are impressive," said Miner. "I encourage everyone to visit our booth at Sea Otter and take one of our 2015 XDURO models out for a ride — and a lucky few will have the chance to test our prototype 2016 SDURO models." 

WILMINGTON, Del. (BRAIN) — Blue Bicycles continues to expand its U.S. salesforce with additional reps in key territories.

"We continue to grow and see our independent reps as a critical way to serve our customers," said Steve Harad, the CEO of Blue Bicycles.

Blue's Sales reps now total eight and growing. "I am very excited about our rep team," said Orli Chinea, Blue's western sales manager. "Our sales group is very knowledgeable about the bike industry and excited about our products. They have the experience and a lot of energy and we are ready to expand the brand and serve our IBDs. We are continuing to add to our team in specific areas where we need more representation as the company grows."

Current reps include Michael Nyquist (Washington, Oregon, Northern California), Trevor Whitehead (Southern California), Rob Johnson (Idaho, Montana and Wyoming), J. Turd'L Miller (Utah, Nevada, Arizona), JD Allen (Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky), Jeff Winnick (Connecticut, Massachusets, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine), Wes Spruell (Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Chattanooga), and Chinea (Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Minnesota, Iowa, Hawaii, Mississippi, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska).

Blue is currently searching for independent reps for open territories. 

OLATHE, Kan. (BRAIN) — Garmin released details of the next generation of its Virb action cameras on Monday. The two new camera models will be available this summer.

The new VIRB X and VIRB XE models have a new form factor allowing more mounting options. They have a one-inch display, are waterproof to 50 meters and don't require a case for underwater shooting. In addition to enhanced video and audio modes, both cameras feature a plethora of built-in sensors, including a GPS, an accelerometer and a gyroscope. The cameras can access even more external sensors wirelessly and integrate the sensor data in their videos. The cameras offer ANT+, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless options.

As an example of the use of the external sensors, cyclists can overlay power data from their Garmin Vector power meter, or show other data including G-loading during flight, the vertical feet covered while downhill skiing (with a connection to a Garmin Fenix 3 watch) and more. The data is integrated with videos via Garmin's new G-Metrix system.

"With the updated design, enhanced recording options, built-in sensors and the introduction of G-Metrix, VIRB X and XE represent a bold step forward in the evolution of action cameras for consumers and professionals alike," said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of worldwide sales. "We are extremely excited to bring these cameras to market, and see not only the content that users share, but also how far, how fast, and how crazy their adventures really are."

The VIRB XE shoots at 1440p/30fps and 1080p/60fps with super slow-mo, image stabilization and different zoom levels.

The VIRB X shoots at 1080p/30fps and 720p/60fps with slow-mo and zoom options. Both versions can capture sharp still photos and photo bursts with up to 12MP image quality.

Additionally, VIRB XE has a Pro Mode with more advanced manual camera adjustments such as white balance control, sharpness control, color profile control, ISO limit and exposure bias.

Both models have improved secure mounts with a non-slip Allen-head tightening system for impact and vibration resistance.

Through the built-in Wi-Fi, users can now connect VIRB X and XE to the VIRB Mobile app on smartphones and tablets. With the app users can get a live stream of video to set up shots and see what's being recorded, control and view multiple cameras, or even quickly edit and overlay G-Metrix data. The app also records the last known GPS position of the camera for easy recovery.

The VIRB X will have a suggested retail price of $299.99, and VIRB XE will have a suggested retail price of $399.99.

More information at garmin.com/outdoors.

KENT, Wash. (BRAIN) —  Seattle Bike Supply has launched a new program to support cycling advocacy organizations that are focused on growing participation in North America.

The first recipient of support from the program is Trips for Kids.

SBS will donate $2 for every Selle Royale Saddle and Basil Bag sold to its accounts between Monday, April 13 and April 30, 2015.

"We believe in fun on the bike, and great starts for the next generation of riders – so we can't think of a better partner who facilitates these experiences. We're proud to be a partner of Trips for Kids," said Chris Speyer, the CEO of Accell North America, SBS's parent.

Trips for Kids, founded in 1988, helps underserved kids experience the joy of cycling.

Marilyn Price, the director of Kids for Bikes, said, "Without a doubt Trips for Kids is most appreciative of both the current and past support from Accell North America. Bicycle industry sponsorship is so very valuable to the continued pursuit of our mission to get more underserved kids on bikes."

SBS will launch several sales events throughout the summer that will generate donations and visibility to groups like Trips for Kids that support cycling advocacy, access, and youth cycling. Qualifying brands will include: XLC, Pryme Protection, Seattle Wheelworks, Basil, and Selle Royale.

BOULDER, Colo. (BRAIN) — Members of The Bike Cooperative will soon be able to tell what products are selling at retail across the Co-op's membership, via data from participating Co-op members aggregated by The NPD Group. Co-op members will also have access to industry-wide category-level sales data from the NPD.

The sales data from Co-op members has been "long sought" by the group, according top a NPD press release announcing the agreement. 

"What The Bike Cooperative has needed, and now has through our partnership with NPD, is accurate and actionable market intelligence," said Nat McAllister, the Co-op's director of supplier relations. "NPD's reporting is based on real data that will help us learn more about our own buying behaviors and identify future opportunities for The Bike Cooperative. This partnership will provide another impactful way to serve our growing membership and supplier partners while increasing profitability for both."

Effective immediately, The Bike Cooperative's management team and its participating member stores will gain access to industry-level reporting for all categories of cycling-related products. In the coming weeks and months, The Bike Cooperative and NPD will collaborate on recruiting retailers to participate in a data exchange program as NPD develops a custom reporting platform that specifically addresses sales within the group.

"Many of The Bike Cooperative's members have supported NPD's programs in the cycling industry for years, but the formal partnership with the cooperative extends our products and services to a broader audience of independent bicycle dealers," said Greg Shoenfeld, the manager of the NPD Retail Business Group.

"Now, The Bike Cooperative and its members receive enhanced reporting and situational awareness facilitated by NPD's data exchange program, while NPD gains more contributing retailers to enhance its industry reporting."

BOULDER, Colo. (BRAIN) — Specialized and Shimano were the top vote getters in multiple categories in BikeRadar's 2015 Most Wanted Awards.

The website's readers voted on their most wanted products in several road and mountain bike categories, choosing from a six nominees chosen by the site's editors in each category. The editors chose the nominees based on their experience with the products and measured reader interest.

“The great thing about the Most Wanted Awards is how it reflects global demand for product,” said BikeRadar's U.S. editor in chief, Ben Delaney. “In the past month alone we’ve had more than 2.6 million readers on BikeRadar, from the U.K. and the U.S. to Germany and France to Singapore and Japan.”

BikeRadar received more than 69,000 votes for the Most Wanted Awards. 

BikeRadar Most Wanted Awards

Road

• Aero road bike: Canyon Aeroad CF SLX
• Endurance road bike: Specialized Roubaix
• Road race bike: Pinarello Dogma
• Time trial/triathlon bike: Cervélo P5
• Road group: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2
• Power meter: Garmin Vector

Mountain

• Cross-country bike: Specialized Epic
• Trail bike: Specialized Stumpjumper FSR
• Enduro bike: Yeti SB6c
• Downhill bike: Santa Cruz V10
• Suspension fork: RockShox Pike
• Mountain group: Shimano XTR Di2

GREENVILLE, S.C. (BRAIN) — Women’s-specific bike shop Pedal Chic will host a series of events for female riders during the Bikeville Classic Pro Criterium and Team Trial in Greenville, S.C., April 17-19.

Pedal Chic will hold a pre-race meet and greet with elite female riders and race day pampering tent offering spa services. Raffle items include a Fuji Silhouette and ticket proceeds benefit the Women’s Cycling Association (WCA).

“Our vision is drawing more women to the sport by making it fun, educational and welcoming,” said Robin Bylenga, founder of Pedal Chic. “These events celebrate that philosophy and we’re thankful to have such supportive sponsors to make it happen at a national event.”

All events take place at Pedal Chic’s store located at 651B South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601. The schedule of events is as follows:

Friday, April 17, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.:

• Meet and Greet with Women’s Pro Teams
• Q&A with the Pros
• Autograph signings and photo opportunities
• Wine and cheese
• Kentwool Socks Introduction
• Major announcement

 Saturday, April 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.:

• USA Cycling women’s “Cornering Clinic” (8:30 a.m.)
• WCA membership drive/raffle
• Fun photo ops
• Meet USA Cycling Team Ambassadors
• Kentwool sock promo
• OSMO Nutrition new product launch
• Onsite clinics
• Auction to benefit WCA

Giveaways and event sponsors include Fuji, Hincapie, Nelson Mullins, Osmo Nutrition, Action Wipes and others. 

For more information visit pedalchic.com and bikevilleclassic.com.

ORANGE, Calif. (BRAIN) — Sport legends Chris McCormack and Timo Bracht will each speak at this summer's Global Conference, an event produced by Triathlon Business International.

The event is July 9-11 in Roth, Germany, in conjunction with the Challenge Roth triathlon.

Bracht is the 2014 Challenge Roth champion and eight-time Ironam-distance winner; McCormack is a two-time Ironam World Champion, 2012 Long Distance World Champion, 2007 Challenge Roth champion, and 1997 ITU World Cup Series winner.

Other speakers and panelists at the conference include: Jack Caress, President, Triathlon Business International; CEO, Pacific Sports LLC; Bob De Wolf, Uplace-BMC Pro Triathlon Team; Dan Empfield, Founder/CEO, Slowtwitch.com; Peter Hurley, CEO American Bicycle Group; Julia Polloreno, Editor-in-Chief, Triathlete Magazine; Klaus Presler, Founder & CEO, Lapio; James Robinson, Global Head, IMG Mass Participation Sports; Gary Roethenbaugh, CEO Multisport Research, Triathlon Industry Assn.; Zibi Szlufcik, CEO, Challenge Family; Felix Walchshöfer, CEO, TEAMChallenge GmbH; Frank Wechsel, CEO spomedis GmbH, Triathlon Magazine, Germany.

Online registration will be available through the morning of July 10. Online registration is available.

FERNDALE, Wash. (BRAIN) — Bicycle Technologies International will distribute Anvl Components' full product line, the companies announced Monday.

"A lot of exciting things are happening at Anvl with an expanded product range, new team members and a freshly updated website. Partnering with BTI was a natural fit. They offer extensive dealer coverage and parts from lots of like-minded brands. We are confident that they will help us reach all the right dealers." said Kevin Menard, the company's owner.

"Anvl Components is a brand to watch in 2015," said BTI's marketing director, Bill Lane. "Though a new line, they have a deeper understanding of the industry than most and a great design aesthetic. Their commitment to getting all the details right is inspiring. BTI is pleased to have been selected as Anvl's wholesale distributor of choice. "

ORANGE, Calif. (BRAIN) – Southern California retailer Mark Smits has announced his partnership with Sho-Air Cyclery and Ridebiker Alliance, marking the first expansion into Orange County for Smits' Incycle Bicycles.

Smits and his partner Dominic Galenti, who own and operate four Incycle Bicycles locations in Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties, have taken an ownership stake in Sho-Air Cyclery in Orange, Calif.

Sho-Air International president Scott Tedro opened the store last summer. It has been rebranded as Incycle/Ridebiker Alliance Presented by Sho-Air to reflect the new partnership.

A fixture in the Southern California mountain bike race scene for several years, Tedro also founded Ridebiker Alliance, which helps cyclists establish and manage clubs and riding groups, as well as Team Cannondale Sho-Air.

"Tedro has done so much for mountain biking in Southern California," Smits said. "He puts endless amounts of energy and money into supporting racing and events, like the US Cup at Bonelli Park last weekend, and we share the same passion."

"This is a good way for us to join forces and give back to cycling," Smits added.

The Ridebiker Alliance Presented by Sho-Air moniker will be added to the branding at all Incycle locations, but Smits said the partnership with Tedro is solely for the Orange County store. Cannondale will remain the store's main supplier, but Smits said he plans to bring in other brands.

While Smits will be heavily involved in the day-to-day at the Orange County location, he said he has no plans to change staffing or management.

"They have an awesome staff, so there is no reason to change that up," Smits said. "But we'll help with balancing inventory, etc. It's a small footprint, with the Sho-Air Team and Ridebiker Alliance also working out of that space, so we'll keep it boutique-style."

"It's a big challenge, but it'll be an awesome one," Smits added.

LUGANO, Switzerland (BRAIN) — Effetto Mariposa has hired Aspekt Brand Communications, a new PR and marketing firm headed by industry veteran Suzette Ayotte, to handle its public relations in the USA.

Known for its Caffelatex tire sealant and its Giustaforza torque wrenches, the Lugano-based brand has just launched Carogna, a double-adhesive tubular tape product that replaces glue.

"Effetto Mariposa recognizes the opportunity to gain North American marketshare particularly on the heels of interest in Carogna. We needed someone who understands brand exposure through both media engagement and influencers," said Alberto De Gioannini, EM's founder and product engineer.

"Caffelatex, the market leader in Italy in the sealant category, recently underwent a formula change, not only based on feedback from our professional sponsorships but also to ascertain that all of our products were of the highest quality," De Gioannini said.

Effetto Mariposa is distributed in the U.S. by Cantitoe Road, Quality Bicycle Products, Hawley USA, and Bicycle Technologies International.

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (BRAIN) — U.K.-based lock brand Hiplok is now being distributed in the U.S. by QBP and Cyclone Bicycle Supply.

The two distributors will carry the brand's wearable locks, including the new Hiplok GOLD and DC.

The Gold model is the brand's most secure wearable bike lock to date, with a 10mm hardened steel chain at its core. The GOLD model has reflective details and a coded key replacement program and is intended for cyclists in high-risk urban areas such as New York or San Francisco.

Hiplok co-founder Ben Smith said, "We are really excited to be expanding Hiplok in the U.S. Working with such respected partners as QBP, Cyclone and current distributor HASG, we are looking forward to seeing more cyclists across the country wearing and using Hiploks to keep their bikes safe."

AIGLE, Switzerland (BRAIN) — The International Cycling Union (UCI) has decided to allow teams to test disc brakes in a limited number of road races this season and next, with an official introduction of road discs scheduled for the 2017 season.

The UCI announced Tuesday that teams will be allowed to test disc brakes at two events of their choosing during August and September this year.

"The testing will continue in 2016 at all events on the UCI professional road calendar and, if the experience is satisfactory, disc brakes will be officially introduced to the UCI WorldTour in 2017. The aim is to eventually introduce disc brakes to all levels of road cycling," the UCI said in a press release Tuesday.

The UCI has been working with the bike industry via the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry to bring discs to the road.

"Although disc brakes have been used for around a decade in mountain biking and for the last two years in cyclocross, their introduction to road cycling must be carefully studied in collaboration with all those who are directly concerned," said the UCI's president, Brian Cookson. "That includes riders, teams and manufacturers. This step is part of the UCI's desire to encourage innovation in order to ensure cycling is even more attractive for spectators, riders, bike users and broadcasters."

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (BRAIN) — QBP is now the exclusive U.S. distributor for Birzman's tools and accessories. QBP has distributed the brand for about 18 months; the exclusive agreement is new.

"Birzman places great importance on our relationship with QBP — so much so that we chose to work exclusively with them in the USA. We identify with QBP's strong emphasis on supporting IBDs as well as their firm commitment to preserving the positive image of the brands they carry. Formalizing this exclusivity reflects our shared values and commitment to brick-and-mortar stores. We look forward to working closely with QBP and their dealer network to add meaningful value to IBDs," said Ricki Nethercote, Birzman's account manager.

Birzman has created a new minimum advertised price and online sales policy. The MAP policy will prohibit advertising below MSRP and will bar the listing of products on third-party websites such as Amazon, Wal-Mart, Sears or eBay.

QBP has added Lauren Ziedonis as sales manager to support the brand. Ziedonis' previous experience is as a demo coordinator for Liv/Giant, marketing manager for Mellow Johnny's, sales representative for Shimano, Pearl Izumi and Poc, and most recently the global sales and reservations coodinator for the Aspen Skiing Company. She can be reached at LZiedonis@qbp.com. QBP will also handle all Birzman warranty service in the U.S. 

NEW YORK (BRAIN) — Eddy Merckx Cycles USA has launched an outside sales team following its transition from consumer direct sales back to IBD sales in the U.S. The company said the transition has been successful as it now has more than 80 retail locations.

"A strong emotional connection to Eddy Merckx himself along with recent raving reviews from the U.S. and global press are certainly helping the brand re-establish itself," said Heather Rizzi, the brand's national sales manager. "We're committed to raising the service standards to our IBD clients by providing timely response, successfully directing consumer inquires to IBDs, assisting with product sell-through, and delivering continuing education on our brand and product"

The company is still hiring reps in several territories. Those interested should contact the brand's director for the Americas, Phillip Lucas, at phillip@eddymerckx.com.

Eddy Merckx Cycles' current U.S. reps:

• For Southern California: Jim Bremner
• For the Rocky Mountains (Colo., Utah, N.M.): High Country Velo Advantage sales
• For the Midwest (N.D., S.D., Neb., Kans., Minn., Iowa, Miss., Wsic., Ill.): In Gear Representation
• For Texas (Texas, Okla., Ark., La.): Ali Tajiran, Josh Hubbard & Marc Fuentes
• For New England (New England and Eastern New York): Ryszard Szumski
• For the Southeast (Tenn., N.C., S.C., Ga., Al., Miss.): Gerald Greene

OXNARD, Calif. (BRAIN) — Nalini's new summer Black Label road cycling clothing collection has features and materials identical to what the brand provides its sponsored pro racing teams.

Nalini sponsors and supplies several top pro teams, including Astana and Cofidis, and the company said it produces some pro team kit that is labeled with other brands. Astana's Vincenzo Nibali won last year's Tour de France wearing Nalini apparel. 

Nalini clothing is manufactured in Italy and is imported and distributed in the U.S. by Albabici. 

The Black Label collection includes two lines with matching accessories, depending on the technical features and purposes. The Aeprolight line is characterized by extreme lightness and aerodynamic performance, plus design features to enhance comfort in warm climates. The Nanodry line includes outerwear with a water repellent coating, suitable for year-round use in different weather conditions. 

The Aeprolight line includes the Body Aerosuit, which is constructed from five different fabrics, each one with specific features. The top front features a windproof, ultra-flat and stretchable material  for a slim fit and aerodynamic shape. The striped, slightly rippled fabric on the sleeves and back is said to reduce wind turbulence. The anti-abrasive fabric on the crotch helps to avoid saddle abrasion. The hydrophilic and antibacterial fabric on the short panels has Schoeller's Coldblack treatment, which is said to reduce skin temperature by 12 degrees C under the sun.

SAN DIEGO (BRAIN) — Goggle and casual sunglass brand 100% has expanded into performance sunglasses with the introduction of the Speedcraft and more compact Speedcraft SL.

"The Speedcraft carries the same DNA as our goggles, featuring striking design aesthetics with TopView lens technology. This technology significantly increases vertical visibility in the riding position, giving the rider a distinct advantage when cycling," 100% said in a release.

The glasses feature a single-lens shield to increase peripheral view and UV protection; a wraparound design to minimize movement on the face; Megol rubber-coated nose pads and temple arms; and lower air scoops to increase ventilation and reduce moisture on the lens. They are also CE and ANSI certified.

Each sunglass comes packaged with an extra low-light lens, EVA-molded carrying case to hold glasses and spare lenses, sublimated micro-fiber bag and two interchangeable nose pads (one standard fit, one small/Asian fit).

Interchangeable replacement lenses will be available at the end of April in 10 colors for all light conditions.

MSRP: $195 (mirrored lens); $175 (smoke lens). Replacement lenses will retail for $30-$50. For more information, contact info@ride100percent.com.

BREMBATE, Italy (BRAIN) — Component brand 3T is branching out with a new handlebar-mounted device that mirrors smartphone apps.

Similar in concept to Wahoo's RFLKT device, the 3T Eye wirelessly links to the user's smart phone and displays information from fitness tracking apps including 3T's own new app, called 3T Cycling. The free app is available now in the Apple App Store and will be available soon for Android devices.

The 3T Eye can also receive data directly from hardware including power meters and heart rate monitors. The 3T Eye can be mounted with a Barfly 2.0 mount or with a special faceplate adapter that works with 3T's ARX II stem. 

The 3T Eye retails for $130. The 3T Eye is distributed in the U.S. through VINA and QBP.

More information at 3tcycling.com.