Luke Strobel Re-Signs With Maxxis Tires Gravity Team

The leading downhill rider in the US and the most recent signing to the 23 Degrees athlete management program, Luke Strobel of Washington State, has opted to return to the Maxxis team after his successful 2007 World Cup campaign which saw three top 20 results in only his 2nd international season. Iron Horse Bicycle Company announced that they will be the official frame supplier of the Maxxis Tires Gravity Team for the 2008 race season. Maxxis team riders will use the dw-link equipped Iron Horse Sunday for downhill events and MkIII model frames for mountain cross races. The Iron Horse Sunday is one of the most sought-after mountain bikes in the world. With a pedigree that includes victories in World Championship, World Cup Series Overall, World Cup, National Championship, and US Open competitions, the Sunday has become the bike-of-choice for the sport's best athletes and discerning riders. The 2008 Maxxis Team gravity roster is stacked with talent. Joining Luke on Maxxis for the 2008 campaign is defending back-to-back World Champion and 2007 World Cup Series Champion Sabrina Jonnier, and 2006 Junior World Champion Cameron Cole. Team Maxxis will compete the UCI World Cup circuit, the NMBS series events, and other selected top-tier events throughout the world. Maxxis and Iron Horse have a long history of working together. Maxxis has been a tire sponsor of Iron Horse teams and riders and Iron Horse has used Maxxis tires as original equipment specification for the past 10 years. Luke said: "The team has really stepped it up for next year. That, and the the fact we're on Iron Horse bikes, had a lot to do with me re-signing. I'm really looking forward to doing all the World Cups next year and lifting my world ranking into the top 10. That's my primary goal." Maxxis Tires Bicycle Manager Christopher Warrick comments: "We're excited to have Iron Horse supporting the gravity side of the team this year. It's obvious their bikes are fast, as they've delivered back-to-back world championships for both men and women. A great bike, like the Iron Horse Sunday, will make a great rider even better." Christopher went on to say, "I can't wait to get the season started. We've put together a great team of riders and sponsors and feel as though the quality of the team's equipment will work to our advantage." www.23degrees-sports.com