xc sponsorship

[Syphanx]

Hey guys,
I was just wondering if there are different types of sponsorship levels (I'm sure there are) but i just wanted to know what grades there were and what support you get from that company according to each grade.

Thanks,

- Michael -

[luckyphil]

i have co-factory sponsorship from Singletrack Imports (www.singletrackimports.com), which predominantly import Vario Bikes (www.variobikes.com). We're also helped out by SuperCycles (melbourne) (www.supercycle.com.au)
co-factory sponsorship allows you to race with the team. they generally help you out with transportation, mechanical help, race fees, etc.
this also entitles you to discounted components, frames, etc.
very rarely do people get paid or given bikes, more discounted.
hope this helps.

End Blatant Plug

[nick]

Like alot of people im sponsored by my lbs. I had to do a regume(spelling?) . I get the odd free thing (nothing huge shop jersey- etc) and i get cheap stuff. If your not already helped out by ur lbs sposorship isnt to hard to get from them.

[freeride_this]

this kid at my school just got sponsored by shimano maxxis oakley and our LBS :eek:
its 4 XC though so.....

[LTR]

I know quite a few people with a sponsorship. You basically have to be a pretty dedicated person who can show up a company and present it to the public. There are actually companies around that are looking for riders, so email a resume and see what you may be able to pic up.

[Bodin]

Like alot of people im sponsored by my lbs. I had to do a regume(spelling?) . I get the odd free thing (nothing huge shop jersey- etc) and i get cheap stuff. If your not already helped out by ur lbs sposorship isnt to hard to get from them.

I also have the "LBS Sponsorship" - free race clothes and wholesale prices on everything else. If you're into your racing, it really is worthwhile looking around for a shop who's prepared to help you out in this way. It doesn't really cost them much (just the cost of the clothes), but it gets them lots of exposure while you look and feel more professional.

[Syphanx]

There are actually companies around that are looking for riders, so email a resume and see what you may be able to pic up.
If you could give me any names that would be greatly appreciated!

- Michael -

[carbon pancreas]

Personally i think that getting friendly with your local bike shop is an excellent start.
You may just get slight discounts and priority on repairs at first,but this can lead to shop clothing(a big help ,knicks are pricey!), cost price parts ,race support etc.
This was the first type of sponsorship i had and it was a big help with time and money but the coolest bit was that it lead to getting the full box and dice from the major brand that they stock.
Remember that there is only a small amount of money,exposure in our sport (especially xc) so the first thing you should be thinking of and talking about is what YOU can do for THEM.
Best of luck.

[Syphanx]

Personally i think that getting friendly with your local bike shop is an excellent start.
Yeah I have been giving that a hard think. You see I'm really well connected with Burwood Cycleworld in Burwood and they are a great bike shop and everything but they are too far away. However Chain Reaction Bicycles in Menai is just across the road from me. The only problem is that all they are interested in there is bmx. Sure they sell mtb bikes, but they don't really know what's going on, expecially in the xc division. They're mechanic is alright but the rest of them are pretty hopeless. So what do you think I should do?

- Michael -

[Bodin]

I think you should convince them of the benefits of helping you out with an XC ride and they might find it opens up a whole new market for them...

[Carl]

Yeah I have been giving that a hard think. You see I'm really well connected with Burwood Cycleworld in Burwood and they are a great bike shop and everything but they are too far away. However Chain Reaction Bicycles in Menai is just across the road from me. The only problem is that all they are interested in there is bmx. Sure they sell mtb bikes, but they don't really know what's going on, expecially in the xc division. They're mechanic is alright but the rest of them are pretty hopeless. So what do you think I should do?

- Michael -

have a yarn with the owner, if not, manager (of both shops) and ask him/her what (s)he thinks of mtb's in general. If you see anyone from either of the shops out at an xc race just to have a yarn or a look or a race, dont even think about going in the other shop.

[Jordy]

Yeah I have been giving that a hard think. You see I'm really well connected with Burwood Cycleworld in Burwood and they are a great bike shop and everything but they are too far away. However Chain Reaction Bicycles in Menai is just across the road from me. The only problem is that all they are interested in there is bmx. Sure they sell mtb bikes, but they don't really know what's going on, expecially in the xc division. They're mechanic is alright but the rest of them are pretty hopeless. So what do you think I should do?

- Michael -
Chain reaction are a lost cause. I've never been to Burwood but I'd say its got alot more of a chance of giving you something cheap then Chain Reaction ever will

[Walpiri]

Mate, I would get of my arse and just ask.

The worst someone can say is no, and it does help if you are a regular customer. There is no such thing as a free lunch.

Also, not a good idea to bag a bike shop on these sort of forums either. Never know, the arse you kick today might be attached to the feet you kiss tomorrow or something similar.

Anywho, show these people you have results and are committed to racing and aren't just in it for cheap parts.

Cheers,

Wal
Work is really getting in the way of my mountain biking / beer drinking