CHICAGO (BRAIN) — Steve Brawley has left Bicycling magazine, where he has spent the past 11 years of his career, most recently as national cycling manager. His last day at the Rodale publication was Friday.

Brawley's position in Rodale's Chicago office was eliminated this week, according to a statement from the magazine. Jordan Scheibe will now represent both Runner's World and Bicycling for non-cycling advertising in the Midwestern territory, and Bicycling's Alex Jarman will assume coverage of cycling industry advertisers in the territory.

"Steve has been an ambassador for Bicycling and a trusted counsel to many of our advertising partners; and his contributions have been instrumental to our success," said Bicycling publisher Zack Grice. "Saying goodbye to a smart colleague and a good friend is a sad consequence of an intensely challenging advertising environment, and a radiating effect of sustained cost-cutting inside the cycling industry. Bicycling's success correlates directly with advertising support from the cycling industry we serve and celebrate, and we'll keep working hard to be an indispensable marketing partner to help our clients' businesses grow."

"I've been fortunate to talk to Steve just about every day for the past decade," said Grice. "He has a positive energy and outlook that makes everyone around him feel good. I hope the best is yet to come for him."

MANCHESTER, N.H. (BRAIN) — Primal is the latest brand to join The Bike Cooperative's network of supplier partners. Effective immediately, members of the retailer co-op will earn rebates on direct purchases of Primal clothing and accessories.

"Primal provides our members with a complete line-up of apparel, from the first-time club rider to the enthusiast," said Bill Heins, supplier relations manager for The Bike Cooperative.

"While they're known for their high quality clothing and original designs, Primal is also a huge supporter of the cycling industry, sponsoring many major events and non-profit organizations. They are a brand that is definitely worth supporting and our members can get behind."

Primal president Dave Edwards added, "We're excited to partner with The Bike Cooperative. The Bike Co-op provides significant growth and exposure opportunities for Primal. We're looking forward to building relationships with their strong dealer network."

LONGMONT, Colo. (BRAIN) — Gore Cycle Wear's new GORE Fiber Socks are made of a material that combes ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) fiber with Merino wool and other fibers. The company said the technology directs moisture away from the skin. The ePTFE fibers also add durability, the company said.

The socks also feature a metatarsal gripper belt for snug and unmoving fit, compression support and a supportive arch, flat seams and protective cushioning for impact at the heel and toe, and a low bulk design that creates less opportunity for chafing and bunching. 

"Due to the inherent stability of PTFE, its resistance to chemical, thermal, UV attack and its good abrasion resistance/low friction attributes, both matrix-spun and paste-extruded PTFE fibers are valuable in a wide range of applications, including filtration (woven fabrics, scrim, sewing threads), marine awnings/sewing threads, bearings, gaskets," the company said. 

The unisex socks come in short, mid and long crew lengths. MSRP: Mid: $25.99.

More information: goreapparel.com/gore-bike-wear/men/gore-fiber-bike-socks-mid.

PARK CITY, Utah (BRAIN) — Time Sport has hired Simbol Communications as its agency of record for public relations and marketing services. 

Simbol is a new agency formed by industry veterans Nic Sims and Scott Boulbol. The agency said it will provide the French brand with PR and media relations outreach, plan and execute promotions and event exhibitions, and expand its stable of pro athletes and ambassadors, including pro team sponsorships, among some other services.

"We feel strongly that Time products have never been better, and the timing is perfect to start aggressive marketing and PR campaigns," said Ryan Green, Time Sport USA's director of sales and marketing. "We know Time could use a little boost in these areas to get us back to household-name status with a whole new generation of riders across all major disciplines. Nic and Scott at Simbol are highly experienced at this, and they seem to know just about everyone in the industry! Simbol is the perfect team to help us craft the right message and get it out to the masses."

Sims said, "Growing up as cycling fans we all wanted Time pedals, and we drooled over their gorgeous bikes ... Now we're in a position to help the brand maintain and grow their status in the industry as one of its most coveted brands."

Boulbol said, "We're looking forward to helping put Time pedals back into the pro peloton on a large scale, and we'll also be working with local pro cyclists and triathletes to get them on their frames as well. And we hope to considerably grow the brand recognition and increase their market share for all products."

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif. (BRAIN) — Interbike has released the content schedule for its third annual Fit Symposium, which will be held in Las Vegas the day prior to the opening of this year's Interbike Expo.

The 2017 edition of the Fit Symposium will be curated in cooperation with Medicine of Cycling. The symposium is designed to bring together North America's bike fit technicians from the IBD channel for a dynamic interactive symposium featuring some of the top names in bike fit. Medicine of Cycling is an academic symposium led by Curtis Cramblett, PT.

"This will be the third annual Fit Symposium at Interbike and we're glad to be working once again with Medicine of Cycling, and bringing some new sessions for the fit community," said Pat Hus, the vice president of Interbike. "Of particular interest is a session that Curtis developed which mimics the format of our most popular session at the 2017 IBD Summit. Fit technicians will be able to submit their favorite accommodation to Medicine of Cycling in advance of the show, with 6-8 being chosen to present those ideas at the Fit Symposium. The winning idea, chosen by their peers immediately after the session, will win some great prizes."

The 2017 Fit Symposium agenda incorporates general sessions for all levels and separate breakout sessions for beginner and advanced fit technicians.

There are a limited number of seats available to attend the free symposium, which will be held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center on Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 12:00 p.m.-5:45p.m.

More information about the event including a link to sign up can be found here: interbike.com/conference/fit-symposium. A limited number of free sponsorship opportunities are available for the Fit Symposium. For more information on sponsorship, contact andria.klinger@interbike.com or 949-226-5745. 

Presentations:

LAFAYETTE, Colo. (BRAIN) — The National Bicycle Dealers Association has hired Jeff Donaldson as the general manager/school director for the Barnett Bicycle Institute. The NBDA purchased BBI in September last year and has been working with school founder John Barnett, who remains a consultant, to fill his role. Donaldson comes to BBI from Full Speed Ahead, where he served as the tech department manager.

"It is truly an honor to be joining the team at BBI. Their staff is the most talented and professional in the business and the school has an incredible amount of energy and potential. BBI has been making positive contributions to the health of our industry for over 30 years. I'm looking forward to digging in to the work and being a part of its bright future!" Donaldson said.

Todd Grant, the president of the NBDA, said, "We are excited to have Jeff join the team at Barnett Bicycle Institute. BBI, with 30-plus years of rigorous teaching and mechanic certification, offers a tremendous benefit to NBDA Dealer and Individual members. Jeff's experience in many aspects of our industry — including 22 years of hands-on experience as a professional bicycle mechanic on the professional racing circuit, working with retailers, creating educational programs, and experience in product development and manufacture — all give Jeff a unique perspective that will benefit BBI students and NBDA members now and well into the future."

Prior to joining Full Speed Ahead, Donaldson worked for USA Cycling as a resident mechanic before leaving to join Specialized in the company's global marketing department, where he acted as the company's lead mechanic for all U.S.-based team events. In his most recent role at FSA, Donaldson oversaw the day-to-day operation and management of the entire tech department. He also handled technical and copywriting, sports marketing for sponsored teams and athletes and customer service/warranty/quality control processes, as well as liaising with overseas manufacturing.

Donaldson and his family will relocate to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where BBI is based, before taking on his new role in late June.

CARLSBAD, Calif. (BRAIN) - Bike magazine has promoted Nicole Formosa to editor-in-chief, and hired Travis Engel as gear editor.

Formosa will occupy the top editor role after a four-year run as Bike's managing editor. Prior to joining Bike, she was international editor at Bicycle Retailer.

"Having spent her formative time at Bike under Brice Minnigh, the title's longest-serving editor-in-chief, Nicole is uniquely positioned to lead the brand forward," said Micah Abrams, group content director at TEN, Bike's parent. "Her knowledge of what's made Bike great over the past four years is unsurpassed, as is her understanding of the huge potential for digital growth and industry partnerships. I can't think of anyone who better combines an understanding of Bike's legacy with a vision for Bike's future."

Formosa studied journalism at the University of Oregon and once worked as a cops and courts beat reporter at a daily community newspaper in Colorado. While there, in addition to earning reporting awards and a knack for police scanner lingo, Nicole bought her first hardtail — a $200 used Novara.

"I've been reading Bike almost since that first ride in Colorado, and most days I still can't believe I get to 'work' at a brand that I've admired for so long," Formosa said. "Working alongside such a talented staff to put together the words and images that inspire so many mountain bikers around the world has been the highlight of my career, and I'm thrilled to lead Bike as we navigate the next phase of the ever-changing media landscape."

Engel comes to Bike with a wealth of experience, both in retail and on the trails. He has contributed to Bike's gear pages since 2005.

"Travis is an important addition to the Bike team, and we couldn't be more excited to have him on staff," Formosa said. "He brings a deep knowledge of the brand through his decade-plus of gear-related contributions to the magazine, as well as several years of experience as a reviewer for The Bible of Bike Tests. He comes in armed with fresh perspective and solid ideas, and we can't wait to see where he takes Bike's gear coverage next."

Engel said, "It's a huge honor to join the Bike team. Since its very first volume, Bike has always represented what I found most inspiring about mountain biking. Our gear is the tool we use to access that inspiration, and I plan on covering it as passionately as Bike covers the destinations, history, people and stories that make up this thing we do."

DETROIT (BRAIN) — Detroit Bikes is now shipping its bikes fully assembled from its factory in the Motor City. Shipments of five units can be delivered anywhere in the continental U.S. in floor-ready condition at no extra charge.

"All the dealer has to do is turn the handlebars, re-tighten, and the bike is ready to put on display. This will all but eliminate their assembly costs," said Chris Kiesling, the company's chief operating officer.

In addition to reducing dealer labor costs, the system also helps shrink the Detroit Bikes' environmental footprint, the company stated. "We're eliminating a lot of cardboard from the equation. We can help our dealers and save some trees at the same time," Kiesling noted.

Freight cost to the dealer is the same as bikes shipped in boxes.

"They can take them either way, but I don't know why anybody would want them in boxes. Why spend time putting them together when we will do it for you?" Kiesling said.

LONGMONT, Colo. (BRAIN) — Gore is combining its two clothing brands to form one brand, "GORE wear," for the 2018 spring/summer product line.

"Gore Wear reflects changing consumer behavior more accurately, from pure running or cycling specialists to all-around athletes. Under one brand, they will now be inspired to experience highly functional apparel all year round – because Gore Wear is engineered to allow them to live their passion," the company said. 

The company said the change ties the brand closer to its parent, W.L. Gore & Associates, and its best known consumer product, Gore-Tex. The new Gore Wear logo is aligned with the Gore-Tex trademark. The change also streamlines marketing and makes it easier to communicate product benefits to consumers. Gore Wear will bundle its marketing to increase the effectiveness of the marketing.

The company's internal mantra, "Always evolve," will become part of a consumer campaign in 2018. Retired cyclist Fabian Cancellara will be the focus of the Always Evolve campaign. 

Gore Wear will introduce a new line of products targeting at athletes who run and ride. For the spring/summer 2018 season, these will include base layers and accessories such as gloves or socks.

"This brand evolution is a clear commitment to always evolve and to assure that Gore products are ready to go when you are. Ready to head outdoors, ready for whatever the day holds and always prepared for what the elements might throw at you," said  Jay Herring, global business leader for Gore Wear. 

The company said it will work with retailers to provide assets and tools necessary for the spring/summer 2018 season launch. Herring said, "We are convinced that together with our retailers we are taking the next big step in exciting and inspiring consumers with Gore products."

SPRINGBORO, Ohio (BRAIN) — System Cycle Supply is the new exclusive U.S. distributor of the BMX brand Verde Bikes.

System’s brand lineup now includes DK Bicycles, Airborne Cycles, Wise Components, Daily Grind, TSG, and DUO Brand.

“Teaming up with System Cycle provides Verde with staff, space, and support that we’ve never had before,” said Verde co-founder Steve Buddendeck. “We’re both Ohio BMX brands with the same drive, both selling to many of the same shops. Working together makes it easier for shops to succeed with all of the brands under System’s roof.”

Verde Bikes was previously sold through the brand’s own Greenhouse BMX B2B site, which is now being replaced with systemcycle.com.

System Cycle Supply is owned by Bill Danishek. In January, 2016 Danishek bought back DK Bicycles along with Airborne Cycles from Huffy. His father founded DK in 1979 and then started System Cycle in 1984 to distribute a wide array of BMX brands and products.

DK Bicycles, Verde Bikes, and all brands under the System Cycle umbrella are represented by Hans Johnsen Company, Downeast Bicycle Specialists and Wilson Bicycle Sales.

OLATHE, Kan. (BRAIN) — Garmin International Inc. has announced the VIRB 360, a compact fully spherical 360-degree camera. The waterproof VIRB 360 captures video up to 5.7K/30fps, with four built-in microphones. Garmin's 4K Spherical Stabilization feature promises to make videos smooth and steady.

The VIRB 360 provides automatic in-camera stitching up to 4K/30fps. Built-in GPS and other sensors provide customizable G-Metrix data overlays for a 360-degree augmented reality setting.

"The VIRB 360 lets you relive personal experiences and share them with your friends – from a different point of view, every single time," said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of global consumer sales. "VIRB 360 owners will no longer need to worry about trying to capture the perfect angle or setting up the perfect shot. The camera's easy-to-use feature set will make even the most inexperienced users look like experts."

Garmin offers a free downloadable VIRB Mobile app and desktop software to edit, stabilize, share and add data overlays to any VIRB 360 video content. The VIRB 360 also incorporates voice control options to start and stop recordings, snap photos and more. The VIRB 360 also features livestream capabilities to post to YouTube or Facebook Live with a compatible smartphone or tablet.

The VIRB 360 offers a rechargeable, one-hour battery life while recording. Beyond video, the VIRB 360 can take stitched-in-camera, 360-degree, 15 megapixel spherical photos. Photo modes include single capture, burst shooting, and time lapse. Additionally, the camera is equipped with a sunlight-readable display for users to identify battery life, storage capacity and video modes. The VIRB 360 supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ANT+, and NFC (one-tap connection with Android devices) connectivity.

The VIRB 360 is compatible with virtual reality headsets and live playback through the free VIRB Mobile app. It is compatible with Apple and Android devices, and comes with its own tripod/handgrip. The VIRB 360 uses replaceable microSD memory cards of up to 128GB.

The Garmin VIRB 360 has a suggested retail price of $799.99 and is expected to be available in June. For more information, visit Garmin.com/VIRB360.

WASHINGTON (BRAIN) — PeopleForBikes and representatives from the bike industry spent two days here last week for two executive fly-ins and the first-ever PeopleForBikes Congressional Bike Fest.

"The fly-ins and our first-ever Bike Fest are part of PeopleForBikes' ongoing effort to elevate the bike industry's voice on Capitol Hill," said Jenn Dice, the vice president of the PeopleForBikes Business Network. "These events help educate policymakers on the economic importance of the bike industry and influence key decisions. Over-taxing our products or eliminating bike program funding hurts our industry, reduces transportation and recreation options and eliminates jobs."

According to the most recent Outdoor Recreation Economy Report from the Outdoor Industry Association (released in April), bicycling is an $88 billion a year industry that contributes $12 billion a year in federal, state and local taxes and supports 770,000 jobs.

For the third annual Bicycle Product Suppliers Association fly-in, representatives from the bike industry met with congressional staffers about the Border Adjustment Tax. Attendees included Larry Pizzi from Accell, Adam Micklin from Felt Racing, Andrew Kempe from Shimano, Randy Neufeld from SRAM, Bernie Doering from Stages Cycling and Fred Ferguson from Vista Outdoor. House Republicans have proposed the BAT as part of their broader tax reform package. Under this proposal, imported bicycles and bicycle parts could be subject to significant tariff increases, translating into a major price increase for consumers, PeopleForBikes said.

"The Border Adjustment Tax is an important and timely issue for the whole bike industry," said Micklin, who is the president of the Bicycle Product Suppliers Association president and Felt's vice president of sales and marketing. "We are concerned about this proposal and paying close attention to anything that would increase the cost of bikes to our customers."

A second group of industry representatives also held meetings on the Hill. Attendees included Eric Lynn from BlackRiver, Justin McCarthy from Cycling Sports Group, Michael Delano from Giant, Gary Mendenhall from J&B Importers, Gary Sjoquist from QBP, Brant Havro from Shimano, and Andrew Pizzano from Shinola. These meetings focused on the TIGER Grants program and protecting overall congressional bike infrastructure funding. Among the many high-profile bike-related projects that have benefited from TIGER funding are Atlanta's Beltline Trail, the Razorback Greenway in Arkansas, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, Chicago's bike-share system, and dedicated bike lanes in Boston, D.C. and elsewhere.

TIGER is administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation and it inspires communities to create multimodal solutions to transportation challenges. Millions of Americans use TIGER-funded facilities, between roads, transit, bus and bike. There is concern that President Trump's fiscal year 2018 budget proposal could significantly impact funding for TIGER.

"Having more and better places to ride bikes is important to the industry and affects our bottom line," says Gary Sjoquist, government affairs director at Quality Bicycle Products. "The people riding on bike lanes, in bike parks and on mountain bike trails are our current and future customers, so losing this funding source would hurt businesses and communities nationwide."

In addition to these two executive fly-ins, PeopleForBikes hosted the first-ever Congressional Bike Fest in the Rayburn Building of the U.S. House of Representatives. Twenty-two brands showcased their latest products. Roughly 400 Capitol Hill staffers attended the event, which featured items from Accell, ASI, Bell, BlackRiver, Bosch, CamelBak, Capital Bikeshare, CSG, Huffy, Giant, Giro, J&B, Pure Cycle, QBP, REI, Saris, Shimano, Shinola, Specialized, SRAM, Trek and WTB.

"We are an industry of innovation, job creation, and mobility," says Rebecca Smith, general manager of REI Co-Op Washington, D.C. Flagship. "The Bike Fest was an opportunity to remind elected officials how innovative our industry is and how influential and important the $887 billion outdoor industry is to local economies. Our showcase brought out Hill staffers and members of Congress who appreciate the power of bikes and understand their value to communities across the nation."

PeopleForBikes will continue to monitor the BAT and President Trump's budget cuts to bike projects and will aggressively work with allies on Capitol Hill on policies that are beneficial to bicycling and the bike industry. For people interested in lobbying on the BAT, PeopleForBikes is part of the Americans for Affordable Products Coalition, and they are hosting a fly-in on June 6-7. If you'd like to join them, please contact Jenn@peopleforbikes.org.

MORGAN HILL, Calif. (BRAIN) — The Specialized Foundation has made grants to 20 more schools across the country for its Riding for Focus program.

The Foundation's goal is to introduce students to cycling's positive effects on academic performance, health, and wellbeing, with a focus on students with learning differences like ADHD.

More information: specialized.com/us/en/specialized-foundation.

NORTHVALE, N.J. (BRAIN) —  G. Joannou Cycles has added two new members to its sales team for its Jamis and Nirve brands. 

Jason McCormack will now be representing both Jamis and Nirve to dealers in Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. He will work outside and in tandem with inside company rep Jason Gilbert.

McCormack brings a wealth of experience to his new role including over 20 years of sales and service in the cycling and multi-sport industry. He is the founder and lead salesperson of his own rep group, Velo Persona Sales, where he has managed such brands as Felt, Vittoria, Speedplay, Sidi and more. He is also a past member of the University of Arizona Cycling Team and has worked and managed sales at the retail level. 

Mark Hubbell will now be responsible for representing Jamis and Nirve to all of Northern California. This will include as far south as Fresno/Visalia and extend upwards to the Oregon border. He will also handle Reno and Carson City, Nevada as well as South Shore Tahoe. Like McCormack, Hubbell will work in tandem with current inside representative Jason Gilbert.

Hubbell is a longtime NorCal resident and brings over 15 years of territory sales experience to his new job. He is a former brand representative and sales manager for companies including Schwinn, Bell and Specialized.

"Both Jason's and Mark's long tenures in the bike business underscores their deep passion for the sport and industry. In both cases it is clearly that same passion which led their development as strong sales professionals," said company president Carine Joannou. "Their individual experiences also included retail which helps provide the necessary foundation for fully understanding bicycle shop and consumer needs. In the end we know that real success is only achieved when creating a win-win environment and both Jason and Mark are dedicated and equipped to help deliver on that."

For more information: McCormack can be reached at jmccormack@jamisbikes.com or 602-400-9570.

Hubbell can be reached at mhubbell@jamisbikes.com or 480-425-5796.

SEATTLE (BRAIN) — Nuun and company is expanding the availability of its latest line, Performance, into Canada.

Performance was developed with exercise physiologist and sports nutritionist Stacy T. Sims, PhD to create a hydration product the company says is lighter and yet more effective than what has been available.

Performance will debut in Canada at Nuun's expo presence at the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, and will be served at Nuun sponsored marathons and cycling events and is available for purchase at MEC.

Nuun Performance is debuting in Canada with two flavors - Mango Orange and Blueberry Strawberry. It will be sold in a 16-serving pouch for $29.00 and will also be available in single serve sachets. The line can be purchased online at MEC and will be available in MEC stores and at other sports specialty retailers.

SAN DIEGO (BRAIN) — World Jerseys, in collaboration with the Warrior Foundation in San Diego, is offering a free Purple Heart Jersey for anyone in the industry who has received the military award in a U.S. conflict.

"We wish to honor all within the bicycle industry, at no charge, our appreciation for your service and sacrifice to our great country," World Jerseys stated. The jersey can also go to immediate family members. About 60 jerseys are available.

Interested parties can contact Bruce Powell at bruce@worldjerseys.com or call 619-449-9191.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif. (BRAIN) — Emerald Expositions, the parent of Interbike and Outdoor Retailer, has acquired the SIA Snow Show. Emerald plans to merge the SIA Snow Show with Outdoor Retailer to become the Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show. The combined show will be endorsed and sponsored by SnowSports Industries America and Outdoor Industry Association (OIA). 

CARLSBAD, Calif. (BRAIN) — Consumer-direct brand Canyon USA has joined Camber Outdoors, an organization that works to elevate and accelerate women's leadership and participation in the outdoor industry.

"I've witnessed the significant positive impact Camber Outdoors has had on our industries and know that their spirit of inclusion matches the innovative approach Canyon brings to business," said Blair Clark, the president of Canyon USA. "Supporting opportunities for women is not only the right thing do for our company but it is vital for the continued growth of the cycling industry as a whole."

Deanne Buck, the executive director of Camber Outdoors, said, "For Canyon USA to partner with Camber Outdoors as part of Blair's business growth strategy is a great example of thought-leadership. We recognize that when employers like Canyon become the companies of choice for talented individuals, they become the brands of choice for participants and consumers."

THOMPSON, Conn. (BRAIN) — Registration has opened for expo exhibitors at the KMC Cross Fest, an event to be held Sept. 28-Oct. 1 at Thompson Speedway here.

The event will include an exclusive dealer-media event to kick off the expo on Thursday, Sept. 28, with races and events in the evening under the lights. Amateur and elite cyclocross races will be held Sept. 29-Oct. 1.

Organizers said the 2017 expo will be positioned near "fan favorite" course features on the Speedway to ensure foot traffic for vendors and add to the festival-like atmosphere.

"For us the expo is a major component of our event," said sponsorship and expo director Jim Wannamaker. "The nature of cyclocross, with its schedule filled with short racing events punctuated by down time, creates a great vibe for an expo. With team tents, vendors, food, beer and kids events, our team is laying out the venue to facilitate a full weekend of fun."

"The Thompson Speedway is designed to host racing events while also enabling access and egress throughout the weekend. One big attraction is the ability to test ride the newest 2018 offerings on roads and trails without ever crossing the race course."

Richard Fries, a co-founder of the event, compared the venue to Laguna Seca, the venue for the Sea Otter Classic. "Our new home in Thompson is perfectly suited to create a demo event for both dealers and consumers. We have a closed road circuit, miles of gravel roads, and a network of nearby mountain bike trails. Just like Laguna Seca, this venue is built to host large events. We have classrooms, a bar, restaurants and banquet facilities capable of hosting multiple clinics and demos."

Expo registration is available online at BikeReg.com/kmc-crossfest-expo. More information at kmccrossfest.com.