Vassago Cycles News

Vassago Welcomes Kim!

2010-02-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

Vassago Cycles is excited to welcome Kim Cole out of Phoenix, AZ to the team!

We look forward to seeing lots of her this year!

Photo of Kim at SSUSA 2010 in Tucson, AZ

New Website for 2010

2010-01-18T15:49:00.001-08:00

Our old website has served us well, but was starting to show it's age after 5 years. This new one will be a lot easier to update as we ad new products and works much better on mobile devises.

jabber

2010-01-09T19:27:00.000-08:00

Featuring the same ability to convert any year Jabberwocky to run gears, but now in an ingenious "set it and forget it" 2 piece system.

Simply slide both pieces into your dropouts and attach with included tension screws. That's it! Rear wheel slides in and out, axle alignment and spacing remain consistent every time.

24 Hours of Fury

2009-11-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to everyone out at the 24 Hours of Fury. Vassago Cycles team riders had a great time and hosted a midnight Bar-B-Que for all the participants!

We want to thank 4 Peaks Racing for putting on an excellent race and we look forward to 2009!

Tom Ament raced in the 12 Hour division. Winning 1st place Overall and 1st place Singlespeed. Finishing 11 laps in 10 hours.

Tom Ament takes SS Tour of White Mountains

2009-10-13T15:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations again to Tom for his SS victory at Tour of the White Mountains in AZ. Check out his blog for all the details.

Share the love

2009-10-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

(Cross Post from our Team Blog)

Chris Plesko won SS at the 2009 Tour Divide and set a new SS record on his Jabberwocky this year. We mention this a little late because while Chris is not on our team, we were super excited about his accomplishments and have kept him on our radar.

We recently heard through the digital grapevine that he was recently injured in an avalanche and nursing his wounds as we speak. In support of Chris and his family we want to leverage the traffic of this website to show our communal support for him.

So Check out his blog and show him some love!

Tom Ament wins Tour of White Mountains

2009-10-13T14:58:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Vassago rider Tom Ament on his victory at Tour of White Mountains in AZ. For details on the race check out Tom's Blog.

Share The Love

2009-10-12T18:37:00.000-07:00

Chris Plesko won the 2009 Tour Divide and and set a new SS record on his Jabberwocky this year. We mention this a little late because, while Chris is not on our team, we were super excited about his accomplishments and have kept him on our radar.

We recently heard through the digital grapevine that he was recently injured in an avalanche and nursing his wounds as we speak. In support of Chris and his family we want to leverage the traffic of this website to show our communal support for him.

So Check out his blog and show him some love!

Bamacross Cyclocross Series

2009-10-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

We are happy to kick off the official start of 'cross season by presenting the Bamacross Cyclocross series along with co-sponsor St. Vincent Health System.

Bamacross is a grassroots 'cross series in Alabama and were all about it. Check out their website, or if your in the area, go get you some Bamacross action.

2010 Bandersnatch frames are here!

2009-09-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

We just received word that the shipment of Bandersnatches is on a truck in route to our warehouse today.

All pre-orders will be packed and shipped in the order of the date received. With the build up in pre-orders, we have literally hundreds of units to pack and ship this week and have brought in temporary "stock room monkeys" to ensure we get all your orders out as fast as possible.

Additionally, we will remain open over the holiday weekend to make sure all pre-orders are received without delay.

2010 Bandersnatch available this month.

2009-08-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

Colors available are Liquid Silver, Metal Flake Brimstone and Ink Black. Changes for the new model include a new eco friendly, low-lead paint finish (all future models will use this new paint), more rear tire clearance, flush gusset frame design and forward set seat tube for more derailleur clearance. Of course our geometry remains unchanged. Available as a pre-order from your local Vassago dealer or at our website.

Current MSRP: $479.95

GearPlug 2 is here!

2009-07-22T07:07:00.000-07:00

For Haven's Sake benefit night ride.

2009-07-16T14:24:00.000-07:00

As we have posted previously, the founder of Vassago is no longer on operational status here at the shop, to take care of his daugter on a full time basis.

Team Racer Tom Ament has taken some massive initiative and arranged a night race/fun ride to benefit

http://forhavenssake.sports.officelive.com/default.aspx

2745 miles in under 20 days

2009-07-02T12:24:00.000-07:00

Like the elusive Yeti, Vassago Team rider Dave Nice, or "Fixie Dave" as many of you know him, randomly pops up in various states only to disapear again on his endless quest. The latest news we receieved was that he set a new SingleSpeed recordd. Banff Albert to Antipole Wells new Mexico in 19 days, 21 minutes.

A changing of the guards at Vassago.

2009-06-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hello, I want to introduce myself to all Vassago riders and the legions of prospective Vassago riders (that was for the investors.)
My name is Kris Fowler, founder of Vassago Cycles.

I have been going over in my head the best way to announce the current state of Vassago officially. In the end, I think straight forward honesty is best. So here goes.

Two years ago my 3 year old, and youngest daughter, was diagnosed with a rare and terminal cancer. Over the past two years I have become less and less involved with Vassago as business grows busier everyday, but with the help of a few great people we have managed to keep up with demand.

We have reached a point where my daughter will receive her 5th surgery this year and then spend 5 months in a hospital "clean room" where I have decided to stay with her and hand over my other "baby", Vassago Cycles, to the hands of trusted friends and family.

While I will not be involved in the company, I want to make it clear that Vassago Cycles IS STILL IN BUSINESS, but will simply be running on a skeleton crew for the next few months.

The 100s of frames scheduled to arrive this year will ship on time, all pre-orders are on schedule, and all new model designs are still moving forward in production. However, the transition of employees and lack of my "omnipresent" involvement (I just call it being detail oriented) will definitely cause some "growing pains."

This may mean slower returned phone calls or emails and slower shipping, and we ask for your patience ahead of time. Rest assured, our product, customer service and warranty support will remain unaffected through this transition.

We appreciate in advance your understanding. Enjoy the ride!

Sincerely,

- Kris Fowler
Vassago Cycles

The new GearPlug2 is here!

2009-06-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

Ben Shocky

2009-05-05T08:40:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Vassago team rider Ben Shockey. He finished the Trans Iowa 9th over all, and was the second rider in the history of humans to finish on a fixed bike. Technically, he was also the first to finish the race on a fixed Fisticuff too!

Fisticuff winner at Trans Iowa V5

2009-05-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Paul Jacobson, winner of the '09 Fisticuff frame set at Trans Iowa V5. Well done sir!

For more info, check out Paul's Blog.

Win an '09 Fisticuff at Trans Iowa v5

2009-04-30T09:26:00.000-07:00

Quite possibly the perfect race to showcase our new Fisticuff, the Trans Iowa v5 will be held this weekend from May 2nd and 3rd. Vassago riders Dave Nice and Ben Shockey will be flying the colors out there. Since they are not eligible to win the Fisticuff frameset being offered as a prize, your chances just improved! We will make sure to post the winner here when we get word. Good luck!

Prescott Punisher

2009-04-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

Sara Stanford at Prescott Punisher
1st Place Womens

Zach Stanford takes on Prescott
3rd place finish

Ouachita Challenge

2009-04-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

Ben Shockey headed to Oauchita Challenge
1st single speed
19th overall - 60 Mile

Brad Keyes takes on ICUP

2009-04-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

ICUP #1 Desert Rampage
2nd Place
Jabberwocky with ODIS Fork

ICUP #2 the Cholla Challenge
1st Place Finish
Jabberwocky with ODIS Fork

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Vassago to replace entire race team in mid season.

2009-04-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

Please welcome Vassago's new SS 29er team. We call them "Singletrack Mafia."

Happy April fools.

Vassago to plant 1000 new trees in 09.

2009-03-12T14:58:00.000-07:00

With '08 treating us so well and '09 off to a strong start, we decided it was time to expand our IMBA donation concept to the next level. With the help of American Forests, we have set a goal of planting 1000 trees in various forests areas around the US.

We call it the Vassago Singletrack Stimulus Plan. We figure screw the economy, let's throw some love towards that ever endangered, woodsy, swoopy, happy-place we call our trails.

When you buy any model Vassago frame or frame set, we will plant a tree in your honor! You can even pick which forest location you want your tree to be planted in. Nice, right? We will continue this program until we reach our goal of 1,000 new trees across the US.

So, buy a Vassago, get a free tree and a big dose of good karma. Not too shabby we thinks.

24 Hours In The Old Pueblo

2009-02-16T06:15:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Zach Stanford

Congratulations to everyone out at the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo this past weekend. We heard it was a huge party full of pain, blood, sweat, and tears! I'm sure there was a little bit of beer thrown in.....

Tom Ament took home 3rd place after riding 13 laps for 22 hours.

Male Solo SingleSpeed

1st Dejay Birtch - Niner Bikes

2nd Sean Sullivan - IF

3rd Tom Ament - Vassago Cycles

24 Hour Male Solo

Congratulations to Zach Stanford who pedaled his way to 9th place in the Male Solo category!

We'd also like to congratulate our co-sponsors Ergon Corporate for taking home the win in Category 5 Person Co-ed 150-199 Combined Age. Sonya Looney, Jeff Kerkove, Yuki Saito, and Dave Weins.

Congratulations to our riders

2009-02-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

As Team Manager for Vassago I would first like to express my apologies to our team riders as I have been hard to catch for the past 3 months. I would also like to express my extreme gratitude for all of their support as my daughter continues with her second year of chemotherapy for Neuroblastoma Cancer and ROHHAD Syndrome. I am extremely excited to have all of you on the team this year and am enjoying all of your stories of trails and races. Keep kickin' ass out there!

Now on to the fun stuff -- the past 2 months have not slowed down for our riders and they continue the fight on the trails.

Tom Ament place 2nd in SS Advanced Class in the MBAA first race of the series

Next, Tom hit the 12 Hours of Temecula, also first race of this series, working hard and earning a 2nd Place spot on the podium.

Sara Stanford started her season off at the MBAA series race competing in the Pro Class. Finishing in 1 hour and 49 minutes:

Sara 1st Place

Zach Stanford headed up to Temecula with Tom to take on the Solo Expert Class in the 12 hour race.

Zach 1st Place

Brad Keyes braved the cold and snow at Frozen Hog 2009.

Brad 1st place

Brian Archer just starting Mountain Bike season finished up his Cross Season on the new Fisticuff.

As our main cross race rider we sent Brian the first of the Fisticuff frames to give her a good beating and let us know what he thought. You can read about the Fisti on Brian's blog.

Zach Stilwell has taken on cross season and mountain bike season like a madman! Zach received an award for Minnesota Junior Cyclocross Rider of the Year at the Minnesota Cycling Federation awards banquet!

Congratulations Zach!

John Sanborn comes back after a small break in 2008 to take on Erwin 6 Hour Race.

JJay 1st Place

Vassago Saddles Up for 2009

2009-01-05T13:34:00.000-08:00

We're excited to start the 2009 season and ready to whip the team in to shape!

Vassago players for 2009:

Sara Stanford
Arizona
Day job: Student, Substitute Teacher and Kick Ass Beotch!
Rides: Bandersnatch and Optimus Ti

Tom Ament - aka The Goddess
Arizona
Day job: Money Man and Master Saddle Mechanic
Rides: Jabberwocky, Optimus Ti, Fisticuff, and Ton-Ton

Zach Stilwell
Minnesota
Day job: Student and "The Messenger"
Rides: Jabberwocky, Optimus Ti, Fisticuff

David Nice - aka: Fixie Dave
Colorado or Utah or Nevada
Day Job: Trail Navigator, Bike Shop Mechanic and Disco Lady's Man
Rides: Jabberwocky EVERYWHERE

Brian Archer - aka: Duckman
Tennessee
Day job: Auto industry and Fit Model
Rides: Jabberwocky, Optimus Ti, Fisticuff

Steve Stilwell
Minnesota
Day Job: Techy stuff
Rides: Jabberwocky, Optimus Ti

Zach Stanford - aka: Moustache Milkman
Arizona
Day job: Teacher and Wanna be Burt Reynolds
Rides: Optimus Ti and Bandersnatch

John Sanborn - aka JJay
Texas
Day job: Master IT Guru and Snow Taster
Rides: Optimus Ti

Craig Barlow - aka: Original Big Ring
Canada
Day job: Teacher and Bathtub Salesman
Rides: Jabberwocky and Bandersnatch

Ben Shockey - aka: The Shockstar
Iowa
Day Job: Drink Master and Lion Immitator
Rides: Jabberwocky and Fisticuff

Brad Keyes
Utah
Day Job: CarboRocket Mastermind and Stunt Double for Mathew Fox
Rides: Jabberwocky

Mel Sysing
Canada
Day Job: Teacher and Oakley Sunglass Promotor
Rides: Bandersnatch and Optimus Ti

12 Hours Of Temecula

2008-11-19T19:17:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at the 12 Hours of Temecula. Vassago crew met up with Tom Ament and Zach Stanford who were originally just going to relax at this event but the competitive side took over and we're happy it did!

Tom Ament
1st Place SingleSpeed
Overall winner of the SoCal Endurace Series

We'd also like to congratulate Tom for his 10th consecutive 1st place singlespeed win in a 12 hour solo endurance race.

Zach Stanford
3rd place expert

A special thank you to Jason for putting on a great event, Andy from Crank Brothers for coming out and hanging with us all day, and Christopher Han from SDG USA for the awesome entertainment!

Scott Hodge Benefit Ride

2008-11-19T16:46:00.001-08:00

Photo courtesy of Laurie: aka "Chocolate Girl"

Scott Hodge, Addictive Cycles, and Vassago Cycles would like to thank everyone that came out to the Scott Hodge Benefit Ride in Ft. Yargo. Surrounded by mountain bikes, friends, and family Scott enjoyed just hanging out with everyone. Check out more pictures of the ride and BBQ at Laurie's site.

Hodge we're happy to have you running around and planning Team Addictive races for the 2009 season! Heal up and we'll see you out there!

Scott Hodge Benefit Ride

2008-11-19T16:46:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Laurie: aka "Chocolate Girl"

Hodge we're happy to have you running around and planning Team Addictive races for the 2009 season! Heal up and we'll see you out there!

Vickie Nelson Wins 2009 Jabberwocky

2008-11-16T10:18:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to Vickie Nelson of Team Big Fish Creative. An avid adventure racer, she won the 2009 18" Jabberwocky frame at 12/24 Hours of Fury.

We also want to congratulate Team Big Fish Creative for their win in the Co-Ed 4 Person team.

Vickie Nelson Wins 2009 Jabberwocky

2008-11-16T10:18:00.000-08:00

12/24 Hours of Fury

2008-11-16T09:36:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to everyone out at the 24 Hours of Fury. Vassago Cycles sponsored the first year event with a 2009 Jabberwocky frame. We want to thank 4 Peaks Racing for putting on an excellent race and we look forward to 2009!

Adrenaline Race Team headed out to the field and made it happen!

Tom Ament raced in the 12 Hour division. Winning 1st place Overall and 1st place Singlespeed. Finishing 11 laps in 10 hours.

Evan Smith finished 3rd place Singlespeed in the 12 Hour division - completing 8 laps in 8 hours 25 mins. A huge accomplishment on his first 12 Hour solo race!

Adrenaline Race Team - 4 person team - Masters finished 2nd place Overall

Demo and win an '09 Jabber!

2008-11-11T21:09:00.001-08:00

Stop by the Vassago booth this weekend at the 24 hrs of Temecula, located in Vail Lake, CA.

We will have several demo bikes available as well as a 5$ raffle for a '09 Jabberwocky! Hope to see you there.

Event info and directions are available here.

Demo and win an '09 Jabber!

2008-11-11T21:09:00.000-08:00

Giant Bicycles Dust Devil Mountain Bike Series

2008-11-08T15:20:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our guys out there racing at the 2nd race in the Giant Bicycles Dust Devil Mountain Bike Series.

Tom Ament joined the front of the line with Eric Salstrand, racing in the Marathon class for a fast 50 miles. Darrin Austin taking on the Singlespeed class of the Marathon.

Tom Ament - 2nd place overall Marathon Men
Darrin Austin - 3rd place Singlespeed Marathon

Scott Hodge - Addictive Cycles - Benefit Ride

2008-10-31T07:43:00.001-07:00

We're sure many of you know our dear friend Scott Hodge was involved in a motorcycle accident that has left him layed up with some pretty serious injuries, as well as medical expenses. Addictive Cycles will be doing a benefit ride to help out with some of those expenses.

Details:

Saturday, November 8th

Fort Yargo

12:00 (high noon) start time for the rides

There will be ride leaders for all abilities.After the ride there will be food available for everyone and the new local and rising band Hammer Down has agreed to come play for us! And if that wasn't enough our own local legend Bruce "the mouf of da souf" Dickman has graciously agreed to be our master of ceremonies for the day.

In addition a HUGE thanks go out to the folks at YABA who have donated the use of the pavillion there at the park for the day, thanks guys!

For more information please email: rivermusic2213@yahoo.com

Scott Hodge - Addictive Cycles - Benefit Ride

2008-10-31T07:43:00.000-07:00

Details:

Saturday, November 8th

Fort Yargo

12:00 (high noon) start time for the rides

In addition a HUGE thanks go out to the folks at YABA who have donated the use of the pavillion there at the park for the day, thanks guys!

For more information please email: rivermusic2213@yahoo.com

Tumbling Creek Mountain Bike Rumble XII

2008-10-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

The Tumbling Creek Mountain Bike Rumble is an annual benefit race used to promote mountain biking, raise funds for the Trips For Kids program, and SORBA. The beautiful Gainesville State College campus was the venue for this past weekend's event.

Steve Ridgeway - Addictive Cycles

1st place - Solo SingleSpeed

Weapon: Vassago Jabberwocky

Matt Smith - Addictive Cycles

3rd Place

Weapon: Vassago Jabberwocky

Addictive Cycles Team (Vassago Sponsored) was at the event in full force.

Congratulations guys!

On another note: Cody (Code Red) was out at the event to talk about co-owner and beloved rider, Hodge.

Cody Yancey - Owner, Racer, Rider, Neutral Support

In case you haven't heard, Scott Hodge was in a motorcycle accident Thursday, Oct. 16th. Scott suffered the following injuries from the motorcycle crash: C6 vertebrae fracture, C7 fractured in half but is not separating, C5 is also fractured and causing the most pain but it will heal on its own. Healing time for the fractures is estimated at 3 to 6 months. His lungs are bruised which has made breathing a little difficult, one broken rib and his hip is sore and bruised from hitting the pavement.

If you would like to donate to help Hodge and his family out please visit the Addictive Cycles Website for more information.

We wish Hodge a speedy recovery.

TransUtah

2008-10-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

No this is not a new race but yet the amazing travels of Dave Nice. On October 2nd Dave headed out to Moab, UT from Glenwood Springs, CO. Taking with him his Jabberwocky, back pack, and a cooler. Through the travels and tribulations of Dave's adventures we experienced one legged pedaling due to a broke pedal, a few bus rides, an 80 mile ride in to Hurricane, UT and then rode on to Cedar City, UT.

Hitched a ride to SLC Cycles where he caught up with another Vassago rider, Brad Keyes.
A train ride from SLC to Green River. After riding the Jabberwocky from Green River to Moab he arrives ready to race. Congratulations making it through the trek of TransUtah.

Giant Dust Devil Mountain Bike Series

2008-10-16T21:14:00.000-07:00

1st place - 3hrs 32 mins

Zach Stanford headed out for the first race of the Giant Dust Devil Mountain Bike Series on October 11th. Deciding to do the marathon with about 20 minutes to spare to get dressed, registered, and to the start line Zach was ready. As if there isn't enough pressure at a race.

Congratulations Zach!!!!

Tour Of White Mountains

2008-10-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

With 350 riders at the starting line and a 60 mile course ahead Tom Ament set up to race against many of the best. The Tour Of White Mountains in Show Low, AZ was going to be a show down. Racing against the top two singlespeed endurance champs it was going to need to be a flawless race.

2nd Place - 5hrs 43 mins

Congratulations Tom!

Dirty Spokes 12/6 Hour Series Finale

2008-10-14T17:55:00.001-07:00

Vassago Cycles would like to thank everyone that donated to the Taylor Brooks Foundation. We appreciate all your emails and notes about our frame donation. Childhood cancer has a major deficit of funding and resources and we're proud to help out any way we can. Thank you to the guys at Dirty Spokes for asking us to help in this great cause!

We'd like to congratulate the only lady on the Lithonia Lighting team. She won the donated frame from Vassago.

Congratulations to everyone that raced this event. It was a great turn out for Dirty Spokes and another great race.

Dirty Spokes 12/6 Hour Series Finale

2008-10-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

Zach Stilwell Takes Over The Podium

2008-10-12T17:50:00.000-07:00

Zach Stilwell set out to take on the final MNSCS race of the year. Prepping for the major race weekend of the year Zach was ready to take first in this race, and even take first overall for the year by a mere 5 points (905 to 900). Pushing hard on the Optimus Ti Zach shot out of the gates.

1st place age group (15-18)
1st place overall

Zach Stilwell doubled up after MNSCS to race the first of the Cyclocross season.

2nd place age group (15-18)

Coming off his wins the last weekend Zach got back to it taking on round two in the Cyclocross series and this time taking the Optimus Ti out to do the job.

2nd place age group (15-18)
13th out of 67 riders

Congratulations Zach!

Where To Win a 2009 Jabberwocky

2008-10-06T09:49:00.001-07:00

Dirty Spokes Productions

12/6 Hour Mountain Bike Race
October 11th, 2008
Georgia International Horse Park
Conyers, Georgia
$10.00 donation taken for Taylor Brooks Foundation

4 Peaks Racing

24 Hours of Fury
November 8, 2008 - 12:00PM
McDowell Mountain Regional Park
Arizona

12 Hours of Temecula - 3rd in the Series
November 15th, 2008
Vail Lake
Temecula, CA

For more information please contact the race promoters. Thank you - Good luck!

Where To Win a 2009 Jabberwocky

2008-10-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

Vassago Cycles donates a 2009 Jabberwocky to raise funds for Taylor Ann Brooks Foundation.

2008-09-25T08:35:00.001-07:00

All of us at Vassago Cycles are very passionate and involved in fighting for a cure for cancer, especially in children. When Dirty Spokes came to us and asked for our help we didn't hesitate. We immediately told them whatever they needed we'll help with.

Recently, our team manager received an email from Tim at Dirty Spokes relaying an amazing story about one of our shops. Addictive Cycles has also stepped up to the cause and will donate one of their Jabberwocky frames as well. So now there will be two raffle drawings.

Her father, Jeff Brooks, will be racing at the Dirty Spokes 12 Hour Race on October 11th.

We encourage you to help support the foundation and help find a cure for cancer.

Friday, July 13, 2007, 6 days before her 14th birthday Taylor found out she had cancer, specifically Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor cancer. This is a very rare type of cancer and is usually found in boys so it is very unusual for it to happen to a girl.

Chemotherapy treatments started for Taylor that same day, Friday 13th, and it was a very aggressive treatment regimen. She had treatments that went 5 days in a row, each day was approximately 6 hours of intense chemotherapy. She did this every 3 weeks for 4 rounds – a total of 20 days of chemotherapy

Taylor worked to support her treatment hospital through fund raising and patient parties as well as acting a a poster child for a blood drive during her treatment. Sadly Taylor lost her battle with cancer and won a place in heaven just after 3AM on April 1, 2008 while her parents held her with her sister by her side.

To read more about Taylor please visit her web site at: Taylor Ann Brooks Foundation

Vassago Cycles donates a 2009 Jabberwocky to raise funds for Taylor Ann Brooks Foundation.

2008-09-25T08:35:00.000-07:00

Vassago dominates the podiums in Arizona.

2008-09-22T20:31:00.001-07:00

Granted, this is a "team" update, but we are all so stoked on our new west coast team that we're posting here too!

Vassago's Adrenaline Race team snagged 6 podium spots at Payson Stampede in Arizona this weekend! Hell yes, ride like the devil boys!

12 hr single speed: 1st place

12hr solo: 1st place

4 man team: 1st place

4 man masters: 1st place

12 hr single speed: 3rd place

24 solo mens: 3rd place

Read more here.

Vassago dominates the podiums in Arizona.

2008-09-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

2008 Payson Stampede

2008-09-22T18:51:00.000-07:00

A huge weekend for Vassago's west coast - ADRENALINE RACE TEAM! Congratulations to everyone!

This past weekend was the Payson Stampede, home of the upcoming 2009 NORBA nationals, and it was brutal. The course was a tough one and many times we heard, "This is definitely not a single speed course". Definitely a good review for nationals next year.

A few well earned props to some amazing racers:

Tom Ament - 1st place 12 Hour Single Speed
12 laps in 11 hours 2 minutes
Weapon of choice: Jabberwocky and Optimus Ti

Zach Stanford - 1st Place 12 Hour solo
12 laps in 11 hours 35 minutes
Weapon of choice: Optimus Ti

Darrin Austin/Matt Conners/Chris Suter/Jeff Herrera
4 Man team - 1st place

Robert Musik/Art McFarland/Dan King/Dan Vasily
4 man team - Masters - 1st place

Ben Shockey - 3rd Place 12 Hour Single Speed
Weapon of choice: Jabberwocky

Chad Sheirborn - 3rd Place 24 Hour solo
First 24 hour solo

Vassago and WTB present the Fisticuff.

2008-09-07T19:25:00.001-07:00

If you haven't heard, the Fisticuff is a steel cross bike with a whole lot more under the hood. Reynolds tubeset, Disc or Canti, single or geared, big fat tire clearance and a price that you would expect from a Vassago steel frame to name a few.

It will be on showroom floors for the '09 season, but you can throw a leg over one now, at this year's Dirt Demo in Vegas, courtesy of WTB.

To check out the bike or give it a proper thrashing, stop by the WTB booth at Dirt Demo. Enjoy the show!

Vassago and WTB present the Fisticuff.

2008-09-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

Marcel Aguirre Wins The Optimus Ti

2008-08-27T21:18:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Marcel (aka SandPine) from Florida. He donated to the SORBA/Optimus Ti raffle online and just happened to be racing at Fool's Gold in the 100 mile.

Did we mention he did actually win this frame for $20 bucks!

We had a great time at Fool's Gold and enjoyed meeting everyone. If you haven't read about it yet check out Harlan Price's write up on CyclingNews of the entire event and the winners.

Marcel Aguirre Wins The Optimus Ti

2008-08-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

Adrenaline Race Team takes on Flagstaff

2008-08-24T18:53:00.000-07:00

Darrin at the start

Adrenaline Race Team headed out to the Flagstaff Mountain Festival which was put on by Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff. Great race...all proceeds went to St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance. The Adrenaline Team had taken a couple months off racing and are now gearing up for the second half of the season. This race grouped all Pro, Semi-Pro, Expert, and Singlespeed together in one group, making for a big field at the start.

A few players from the race this past weekend:

Sara - had an awesome race and earned a 2nd place finish in the Women's Pro/Expert class.

Evan and Zach ready to race and lined up. Zach finished with a 10th place finish with Evan right behind him.

The start of the race had approximately 50 to 60 riders shooting out at the same time. Tom managed to get a small gap from the other SSers in the first lap and moved it up on the next two laps. Giving him a 5 minute lead.

Awards for the Single Speed class put Tom at 1st place and Darrin at 2nd place.

Congratulations Adrenaline Race Team!!! An awesome weekend for the entire team!

MNSCS #8 / WORS #9 : BORDER BATTLE!

2008-08-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

Today was the day Zach and Steve have been preparing for. Training constantly for this race to come.

Steve pushing hard through the race, as his last WORS put him in 3rd place, this time around he came in 1st place.

Congratulations to Steve and Zach.....workin' it!

MNSCS #7

2008-08-24T14:57:00.000-07:00

Steve and Zach have done it again in the MNSCS #7.

On August 14th the two hit the MNSCS #7 with Zach coming in at 2nd overall and 1st in his age class. Steve came in 6th overall and 1st in his age class.

Congratulations guys!!

World Solo 24 Hour Championships

2008-08-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Mel up in Canada. He traveled to Canmore and competed in the World Solos! This was his first 24 hour race.

Completing 9 laps on the 10 mile course in the 24 hours. Mel earned 6th place among his age group.

A few photos:

Congratulations Mel!!!

Breckenridge 100

2008-07-28T20:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Tom Ament - who on a last minute decision and a little persuasive manipulation from Vassago made the 12 hour drive to Breckenridge late Thursday evening. Reminding us the entire way to the race as to where he was and how long he drove, Tom took his brand new Optimus Ti on it's maiden voyage at the race. He hadn't really ridden the bike yet and did a few test laps in Fruita on the way out. We figure he should be ready to go if he's been racing on the Jabber.

Tom placed 2nd in the 100 on SS class.

Before and after the race he was reminded of how crazy he was to do this on a SS. The 100 mile course boasting climbs of approximately 13,179 ft!

We're excited to have Tom and the entire Adrenaline Race Team out there preparing the start of their last half of the season and kicking ass on the bikes! Congrats again Tom!

Supersuit in full affect!

Recaping the Stilwells

2008-07-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

MNSCS #4 - Zach takes 1st place

Congratulations to Zach and Steve Stilwell for an awesome season! They have been out there kicking ass all over Wisconsin this season. Just check out what they've been doing in July!

Zach takes on Steve again at MNSCS #5

After completing their July season of races they head out to RAGBRAI. A race across Iowa that spanned from July 19th to July 25th.

Next up for this team is Wisconsin 24-9 - where they will be supporting fellow racers Namrita, Eddie, and also meeting back up with Ben who is racing on a 4 man team.

Congrats guys - you rock!

Fixie Dave - the "short" movie

2008-07-08T19:35:00.000-07:00

Our very own Fixie Dave, out of Colorado, has been showcased in a digital short filmed - produced locally in Colorado.

You can check out the short film during the showing of Radical Films newest KRANKED!

Clicky the Picky!

Where Is Everyone?

2008-06-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

Are you asking "What the hell is going on?" We have been nuts here and

it doesn't seem to be slowing down.

Team Adrenaline kicked some ass at the 12 Hours of Temecula. Surviving the
blistering heat and no shade but the team did awesome!

Tom Ament earned himself 1st place in the SS division and 2nd place
overall - riding his Jabber and dreaming of his Optimus Ti!!

Darrin Austin and Christina Betz teamed up for a duo spot and rolled their
way into 3rd place.

Art McFarland raced his way in to 3rd place Masters Solo.

Our southern brothers also teamed up to compete in The 12 Hour Cowbell
Challenge in NC. Though the race was cut short by a looming treacherous
storm Brian Archer and Chris Davis did an amazing 17 laps to earn a 4th
place position! Way to go guys!

Our northern kin hailing from Canada is on his way to the BC Bike Race.
We're sure to hear a few good stories from Craig throughout the race.

Namrita is conducting all female MTB clinics in the Atlanta region
while Eddie works his ass off bringing us Georgia's main event - Fool's
Gold MTB race and festival, August 15 - 17. Where you can donate $20
bucks to SORBA and enter a chance to win a USA made Vassago Optimus Ti.

Vassago team manager is getting the group prepared for NORBA 24/9 in WI
where she will be joining Steve and Zach to push Eddie, Namrita, and
Ben Shockey to the finish line!

We hope everyone is having a kick ass race season and we'll see you on
the course!

Afton Avalanche Race #2

2008-06-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Steve, Zach, and Ben. They killed it at the MNSCS #2. It was a tough day of racing at the Afton Avalanche. Weather conditions were threatening to beat down the riders. Steve beat out Zach by 3.61 seconds to take 1st overall. Zach earning 2nd overall! YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME!!!

Steve took 1st place overall and age class

Zach took 1st place age class and 2nd place overall

Ben took 1st place in comp SS class

Wondering about the Big Wheeled Ballyhoo.....yes it's canceled....but it's still happening. Steve and Zach will be joining Ben in the festivities. Check out Ben's blog and join the party!

Jabberwocky reviewed in DirtRag Magazine

2008-06-06T07:15:00.001-07:00

Check out the latest issue of DirtRag featuring a 6 month review of the Jabberwocky. A short version of the article is also available online.

Jabberwocky reviewed in DirtRag Magazine

2008-06-06T07:15:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest issue of DirtRag featuring a 6 month review of the Jabberwocky. A short version of the article is also available online.

Dave Nice gets ready to pedal 2,711 miles

2008-06-05T13:15:00.000-07:00

Dave Nice and his Jabber at Stranahan's Whiskey

Dave Nice, out of Denver, Colorado gets prepared to begin the journey from from Banff, Alberta, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico on the Continental Divide Trail. The trail is approximately 2,711 miles and is an unsupported off-road mountain bike race. Dave will be riding his Jabberwocky as a fixed-gear mountain bike. It's a single-speed bike without gears or a freewheel - when the wheels move, the pedals move.

The race is ranked as "one of the 10 toughest races in the world" by Bike Magazine.

Read the rest of Dave's story in the Denver Post and Ergon.

GOOD LUCK DAVE!!!

Vassago Cycles joins 55Nine Performance and Ergon in support of IMBA/SORBA

2008-06-03T08:48:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:
Eddie O'Dea
Event Director
Fool's Gold Mountain Bike Races and Festival
404-432-5841
eddie@55ninePerformance.com
www.55ninePerformance.com

55nine Performance, Ergon, and Vassago Cycles Join Forces to Support IMBA-SORBA and Historic Trail System

Dahlonega, Georgia - The 2008 Fool's Gold Mountain Bike Races & Festival put on by 55nine
Performance is teaming with the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) to create a one-of-akind festival in the Southeastern US. Both 55nine Performance and IMBA-SORBA are working together to support improvements of the existing trail system in the Bull Mountain area of Dahlonega, Georgia, as well as to support development of new trail to an already epic area of the Chattahoochee National Forest. 55nine Performance will be making a cash donation to IMBA-SORBA's Land Access Fund to support the Bull & Jake Mountain trails which was the site of IMBA's first Epic ride. Ergon is helping in the efforts to grow IMBA-SORBA membership by giving away a limited number of grips to all those that sign up as a IMBA-SORBA member through the Fool's Gold events. Vassago Cycles will be present at the Fool's Gold event to demo their line of bicycles and to raffle one 2008 Optimus Titanium 29er mountain bike frame valued at over $1600. Tickets will be sold at www.vassagocycles.com and at the event for $20.00 each. Proceeds from the Vassago frame raffle will also go towards the Bull & Jake Mountain area trail fund.

For More Information - check the following links:

Fool's Gold Mountain Bike Races and Festival
55Nine Performance
Ergon
SORBA
MTBR Press

For information regarding the raffle of the Optimus Ti please email: OPTIMUS RAFFLE . Please make sure your subject heading is Optimus Raffle. Thank you

Vassago Cycles joins 55Nine Performance and Ergon in support of IMBA/SORBA

2008-06-03T08:48:00.000-07:00

Keyes Sweep ICUP #6

2008-05-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Brad and Tasha Keyes on their wins last weekend at the Draper Intermountain Cup Race. This is noted as one of the largest XC races in the state of Utah.

Tasha took 1st place for the first time, riding her Bandersnatch. We are definitely enjoying the big grin on her face! Making the race even sweeter was that it was also her birthday! Excellent gift to yourself!

Brad also took 1st place on his Jabberwocky/Rigid. Defeating the many nay-sayers and doubters of the one gear! Wearing his pink jersey in support of the "Win Susan" campaign!

Burn 24 Challenge

2008-05-28T06:28:00.000-07:00

The Run

Jeremy, Brian, Dave

The Burn 24 Hour Challenge was a success and we had a great time out there with all the racers. Eddie and Namrita O'Dea put on a stellar event and the BMCC did a great job with the new additions of the trail. The weather was perfect for a 24 hour race and aliens were plentiful at midnight! Last year the trail started at an immediate climb and a sharp turn on to the trail. This year they added some new section that was meant to spread the crowd out before the first climb.

Thank you to everyone that donated to the BMCC for a new Ditch Witch!

Congratulations to Team Arsenal. They took 1st place in the Duo Team - winning the two BanderSnatch frames.

Congratulations to Scott Ramsey (one of the Team Arsenal members) - winning the JabberWocky frame.

Yes, out of 350 riders Scott Ramsey won 2 Vassago frames...the chances of this were slim and yet it was done.

As always - thank you to all sponsors!

Adrenaline Race Team Welcomes Pro Racers

2008-05-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

Adrenaline Race Team and Vassago Cycles welcomes the new additions to the 2008 race team! As if taking 1st place in the MBAA Arizona State Championship races wasn't a huge success Adrenaline adds to it's team.

Art McFarland - ProCon Coach and 2007 Expert State Champion.

James Robinson - ProCon Expert

Jeff Herrara - 2007 Expert State Champion and 2008 2nd State Overall Pro

Art McFarland is one of the most respected and well known coaches in the state of Arizona and currently coaches many of the top road and mountain bike racers out there. Art is also a Cat 3 Road Racer and State Champion Mountain Bike racer.

James had an excellent year in 2007 with podium finishes in many of the expert class races and a major threat to Team Manager of Adrenaline Darrin Austin. Darrin states that last year he just kept seeing James getting faster and faster and never giving in.

Jeff took State in Expert Class last year and 2nd in the Pro Class this year. Jeff had the fastest lap this year at the 24 Hours of Old Pueble - note there were 2000 riders at the start. Jeff kept a tight grasp on Floyd Landis and Nat Ross at the Whiskey 50, coming in right behind them.

Congratulations Adrenaline Race Team and the newest additions to the family. We can't wait to see you guys out there kickin' ass!

The Burn 24 Hour Challenge, May 24-25

2008-05-20T06:23:00.000-07:00

The Burn 24 Hour Challenge is back at Dark Mountain Trails in Wilkesboro, NC, this coming weekend - May 24 and 25. Eddie and Namrita O'Dea - Directors of The Burn - have been working with the BMCC to make this the best BURN so far. The trails have been upgraded, there are more alien abductions, a kids race has been added to Sunday. This race is an all around good family time.

After speaking with Namrita they ensure us you will have a kick ass time at this year's Burn and there are going to be REAL alien abductions this year. The O'Deas are always working to make this a race event you will not forget and their efforts are paying off with a record of more than 50 riders in the solo division.

Vassago cycles has 3 frames in the prize pile. There are two BanderSnatch frames in the Duo Team category and we have thrown in a JabberWocky for the free raffle. Be sure to register your name for that free raffle - they have a lot of prizes to hand out!

Online registration will be open until May 22nd (tomorrow) at 11:59 PM EST. This is the easiest option for everyone: sign up online, check in on Friday, race on Saturday. You can also register on site on Friday, May 23rd from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A late fee of $20 will apply and t-shirts can not be guaranteed.

And due to the tragedy of the Ditch Witch while working on the trails, the BMCC will be taking donations at the race to get a new Ditch Witch and to keep fixing our trails. Please stop over there and help out where you can!

Suzuki 24 Hours of Conyers - Granny Gear

2008-05-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

WOW! We're throwing a huge congratulations to Eddie and Namrita, as they kicked ass at Conyers this weekend - 2nd race in the 24 Hour series put on by Granny Gear Productions. The race was held at the Georgia International Horse Park, which was used for the 1996 Olympic Games mountain bike events.

We watched through the live events and scoring updates on the Granny Gear website and cheered the Dynamic Duo on!

Plagued with some technical issues on forks 3 days before the race we sent a new White Bros Magic 80 down to Eddie. He received the fork on Friday, set it up and raced it on Saturday. Namrita switch between her Magic 80 and the ODIS fork throughout the race. A few issues and an excellent support crew from Addictive Cycles these two still battled their way to 1st place!

You can read the full race press release at MTBR Press!

We hear you ITALY!

These two keep us excited.

Eddie O'Dea - 1st place Men's Solo

Namrita O'Dea - 1st place Women's Solo

Fastest Lap Overall Women's

Photos courtesy of Granny Gear Productions

All photos taken by Carl Mesta @ mestaphotos.com

MBAA State Championships

2008-05-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

A huge congratulations to Adrenaline Race Team!!! They competed in the 7th and final race of the MBAA State Championship races this past weekend. The final race of the series was held in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Tom Ament took State in SS Advanced category

Matt Conners took State in Expert 19-39

Evan Smith took State in SS Novice class

Left to Right: Chris Grove, Doug Kennedy, Tom Ament, Chris Latham, Scott Countryman

Congratulations to the entire team.

Look for updates on Adrenaline Race Team over the next couple of weeks as we bring you more exciting news out of Arizona!

12 Hours of Tsali

2008-05-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

Brian Archer and Chris Davis headed over to the 12 Hours of Tsali race in Bryson City, NC this past weekend. Hoping to better their standings from last year at Tsali the race started with a ¼ mile uphill run and off they were. Brian tried out the new Vulpine tire from WTB in the rear with a WeirWolf in the front, good karma stayed with him and the trails were hardpack.

Congratulations

Brian Archer - 3rd place finish

Chris Davis - 6th place finish

Congrats to Eli Geske, out of Florida - Won 1st place - Riding the Optimus Ti

Eckerd Youth Alternative Fat Tire Festival

2008-05-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Arnold - 1st place finish

Jeremy Arnold made a last minute decision to race the Eckerd Youth Alternatives Fat Tire Festival in Dupont State Forest, NC, and we're happy he did. The Eckerd program, in Newport, NC: Camp E-Ma-Henwu, helped Jeremy out when he was a teenager, so how perfect that he could do a race benefiting them.

The race was held in Hendersonville's Camp E-Toh-Kalu - giving riders the chance to enter areas not open to the public at Dupont.

Taylor Brooks Foundation

2008-05-18T18:23:00.001-07:00

We wear the gold ribbon in support of children with cancer

Vassago Cycles has teamed up with Dirty Spokes to support the Taylor Brooks Foundation. We at Vassago Cycles are very passionate about childhood cancer and raising awareness to an amazing foundation that does not receive half the research funds it needs. It has become a mission we are proud to be part of.

Vassago Cycles has donated a frame that will be raffled between now and October 11th, 2008 at the Dirty Spokes 12/6 Hour Mountain Bike Race - Georgia International Horse Park, Conyers, Ga (ALL proceeds from the raffle go to the Taylor Brooks Foundation). Raffle tickets are $10.00 and can be purchased through the Dirty Spokes web site.

We urge you to read the story of mountain bike racer Jeff Brooks and his wife. their daughter lost her fight against cancer on April 1, 2008.

We wish the Brooks family all the best and our thoughts are with you.

Taylor Brooks Foundation

2008-05-18T18:23:00.000-07:00

We wear the gold ribbon in support of children with cancer

Welcome Adrenaline Race Team

2008-05-16T06:34:00.000-07:00

Vassago Cycles is excited to announce the co-sponsor partnership with Adrenaline Race Team based out of Arizona. Darrin Austin has built a team that has a wide range of riders from beginner to Pro. Tom Ament joined Adrenaline Race Team at the beginning of 2008. These guys love to race and love to have fun.

2008 MBAA Race Series

Left to Right: Chris Latham, Tom Ament, Deejay Birtch, Darrin Austin

Currently the team is racing this weekend at the MBAA Final Race in the series. Current standings for the team at the MBAA Series, as of race #6:

1st place Adrenaline Race Team - sponsored by Coyotes Athletic Centers

2nd place Swiss American Racing - sponsored by Swiss American Bicycle

3rd place Primus Cycling - sponsored by Fetish Cycles

Good luck out there guys!

Suzuki 24 Hours of Conyers

2008-05-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

With the original race course redesigned and rerouted with 9 miles per lap we're excited to have Eddie O'Dea and Namrita O'Dea out there racing this weekend. Eddie, who took 3rd, and Namrita, who took 1st in Vail , we're sure will have a good race in Conyers. We'll be watching the live results back at the ranch. We would also like to thank Team Addictive for taking care of Eddie and Namrita through the 24 hour event.

There is a good line up going in the Men's Solo category but if you haven't read it - Namrita is asking for more women to come out and compete! Don't let her down - we need the women out there racing!

Namrita and Eddie recently spoke with CyclingNews about the upcoming race. "You always feel a little extra pressure racing on your home course," said Eddie O'Dea. "I set this out as the race I wanted to win at the start of my 24 [hour] career, and I haven't done that yet." MORE:

Minnesota State Championship Series #1

2008-05-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Steve and Zach Stilwell. They started their race season this past weekend, hitting the Minnesota State Championship series. Steve riding the Optimus Ti and Zach riding a Jabberwocky. With the threat of canceling the race and 40 degree start weather they were ready to get out there and ride! Riders rode out in waves of 4 - Zach above headed out in the 1st wave.

Race results:

Steve: 1st place overall, 1st place age group, 1st place gender

Zach: 3rd place overall, 1st place age group, 3rd place gender

Vassago Welcomes Brad and Tasha Keyes

2008-05-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Coming from the great state of Utah, Brad and Tasha contacted Vassago Cycles about a team sponsorship and great things happened from there. We usually do not add to a team in the middle of the season but the email request and dedication to 29ers caught our attention.

Brad started out with a Karate Monkey when it first hit the market (we all love the KM) and moved on to other 29ers from there. When his 29er died he jumped back on his 26 and it just wasn't working for him. What was his intrigue with Vassago? Wet Cat Geometry!

In 2007 Brad competed in the Intermountain Cup Series, Single Speed Class
1st place 5-mile Pass
1st place Evanston Wolverine Ridge
1st place Frozen Hog
2nd place Cholla Challenge
2nd place Soldier Hollow
2nd place Draper Challenge
2nd place Sundance Spin
2nd place Snowbird Mountainbout
3rd place Deer Valley

Tasha has been racing for a majority of the past 10 years off and on, with the past couple years dedicating herself to racing. In 2007, she competed in the Park City E50, a tough 50 mile course with 10,000 feet of climbing and 100% technical single track.

In 2007, Tasha took on quite a few races - a few below:
3rd place Women's 35+ Draper, Intermountain Cup Series
4th place Park City E100/50 women's
1st place women's relay team LOTOJA

For 2008, she has already raced in the Desert Rampage Intermountain Cup Series and finished 2nd place.

When not racing Brad and Tasha are running their own business making an endurance sports drink called CarboRocket and are also developing their private land in Gooseberry Mesa, where they held the first Gooseberry Mesa 100 this year.

We're excited to have these two on board.

Three Races - One Weekend

2008-04-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

Known as PMBAR and stated to be one of the toughest races around...something to challenge everyone. Jeremy Arnold, out of North Carolina, teamed up with Luis Calderon, out of Florida, in the suffering. Ron Bennett, out of Florida, is riding the Optimus Ti (to the left of Jeremy). Thanks Ron! Hitting four checkpoints in 7 hours and 47 minutes they were 19th out of 72 finishing teams. Photos below - courtesy of Brado. Thanks Brado!

Dirt, Sweat, and Gears and the SSUSA - Were you able to make it. We hear this was an awesome weekend event. We were unable to attend this event, however, we had quite a few frames given away at this race. Let us hear from you if you won one...we'd like to congratulate you! Check out the DirtRag Gallery.

Dirty Spokes - If you weren't at the other two then we know you had to be at this one. We found Cody Yancey, among some of the riders from Team Addictive at Dirty Spokes, racing in the 6 hour Solo Expert. Congrats!! Photos can be viewed at Mesta Photos!

Congratulations to everyone...next races for Vassago Riders include:

24 Hours of Conyers Granny Gear
12 Hours of Tsali
Xbar Shootout
BURN 24 Hour Challenge

24 Hours of Vail Lake

2008-04-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Namrita O'Dea and Eddie O'Dea on their survival and victory at the 24 Hours of Vail Lake this weekend in Temecula, California. Armed to the teeth with their new OptimusTi, titanium bikes, they endured 100 degree temps and relentless competition to take home 1st and 3rd in Women's Solo and Men's Solo class respectively. This is the first race in the Granny Gear national series for these two.

Namrita wins 1st place
Fastest lap time for Women's Solo: 1:15:34

Namrita took on the Women's Solo class and had some great competition out there. Namrita completed her 11th lap of the course at 9:02 am with 112 miles and 16,478 feet elevation gain. She was pretty far ahead at that point and didn't need to continue. A beautiful ending to a long journey. Did we mention she does this all in a single speed?

Scores for all racers in Women's solo can be seen HERE and read about the Women's Solo riders on the Vail Lake WebCast!

Eddie wins 3rd place

Eddie raced in the Men's Solo class. Competition in the Men's was extreme. Eddie didn't let that start playing on his mind. He stayed focused and kept his finish in sight. Eddie completed his 13th and final lap at 7:33 am with almost 133 miles and 19,474 feet elevation gain. Scores for all Men's Solo can be seen HERE and read the Post Race Report.

VeloNews - O'Dea and Wheeler take solo honors at 24 Hours of Vail Lake
CyclingNews - Wheeler and O'Dea win 24-hour NPS opener

24hpassion.it - 24hpassion in pillole: 12 ore Lunigiana, foto di Eddie e Namrita

Suzuki 24 Hour Series Opener - Won by Wheeler, O'Dea: Lichtenwalner, other O'Dea in close contention

2008-04-23T08:41:00.000-07:00

Wishing Vassago riders Eddie O'Dea and Namrita O'Dea the best of luck at the Granny Gear Vail Lake 24 hour race this weekend. Racing in Men's Solo and Women's Solo these two are set to take on the National race. Riding the Optimus Ti as their main bike with the BanderSnatch and JabberWocky ready for back up. We sent them out early to pre-ride the course for a few days and get a feel for what equipment is needed for the day of the race. Both riders having just raced the Cohutta in Tennessee are warmed up and ready to go. Look for a full race report from both riders on their blog sites next week and we'll be sure to share the highlights and photos. Good luck to all racers heading out there.

Kick Ass Eddie and Nam!

Our Riders

2008-04-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

Ouachita Challenge

2008-04-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

Team Rider - John Sanborn - set out to conquer the Ouachita Challenge on April 5th and 6th.

John got 4th in overall with 80 mile distance at 6 hours and 46 minutes. This part of the race was limited to only 100 very qualified riders due to the level of difficulty. The event was posted to have very strict cut off times and we congratulate John for kickin' ass out there.

Win a Jabberwocky frameset.

2008-04-09T18:45:00.001-07:00

Vassago is a proud sponsor of this years Dirt, Sweat and Gears race and festival, and will be giving away 3 Jabberwockies!

That's right; man up, grab your single speed and destroy the competition at this year's SSUSA , and you can win a new Jabberwocky with matching Odis fork.

Overall finisher of the singlespeed bash, SSUSA will win a Jabberwocky frame set.

Overall finisher of the DSG Race, will win a Jabberwocky frame set.

We will also be donating a special addition pink powdercoated jabberwocky frame set in support of the American Cancer Society, with DSG.

Contact Dirt, Sweat and Gears for more info.

Win a Jabberwocky frameset.

2008-04-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

Jabberwockies in stock now!

2008-04-09T18:41:00.001-07:00

We are happy to say that the long awaited Jabberwocky shipment has arrived and we have full stock on hand. All colors and sizes with available matching Odis forks. Dealers are taking shipment now, so give 'em a call.

All pre-orders have shipped so, if you have one coming, keep an eye out for the big brown truck.

Jabberwockies in stock now!

2008-04-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peak - New Vassago left side drive 'cross frame

2008-03-28T07:49:00.001-07:00

Final details are still being worked out, but we got so excited by our latest prototype of The Fisticuff, we had to share. Facts are still international spy secrets, but look forward to a do-all, 'cross inspired velocipede, with quality butted steel and a visa-friendly price tag.

Look for this bike at the Trans Iowa race this April, ridden by Ben Shockey of Decorah Cycles.

Sneak Peak - New Vassago left side drive 'cross frame

2008-03-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Ride and Race Preparation Clinics

2008-03-24T11:35:00.001-07:00

Vassago's National Endurance Racers Eddie O'Dea and Namrita O'Dea will be holding two clinics in the Atlanta, Georgia area. They will be covering many topics including: importance of proper bike fit, selecting the appropriate equipment, nutrition, and how to prepare your body and mind for races.

Contact Eddie or Namrita to find out more information about these clinics and how you can demo select Ergon grips and packs at Fort Yargo State Park on April 12th.
DATES:

Thursday, April 10
6:30-7:30 pm
Atlanta Velo Exchange in Atlanta, GA

Saturday, April 12
10-11 am
Addictive Cycles in Braselton, GA

Ride and Race Preparation Clinics

2008-03-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

Time to get dirty!

2008-03-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Team Vassago is gearing up for the 2008 race season. Some of our Team riders have already been out there tearing up the trails!

Eddie O'Dea and Namrita O'Dea have been prepping and training all winter for the start of their season. We have a few shots of them training in the mountain of Georgia. Eddie and Namrita have kept themselves busy with their monthly diary in Cycling News, fitting riders to give them the boost they need when racing at 55nine Performance, and last month they did a photo shoot with photographer Andrew Kornylak for National Geographic Adventure...issue out in May!

They'll be starting their season off at the Cohutta 100 in Ducktown, TN, then the 24 Hours Granny Gear races start, as well as, directing the Burn 24 Challenge! Another big one that Vassago is sponsoring is Dirt, Sweat, and Gears and the SSUSA in conjunction with the American Cancer Society. All race schedules can be viewed at their personal blogs or on our race blog!

John Sanborn out of Dallas has already hit the race circuit for 2008. Starting the season off on a Vassago Jabberwocky and moving on to the Optimus Ti. John was the first racer/rider out there with the Optimus Ti - if you want to know anything about this frame give him a shout. John is also a team manager himself at one of our fave shops - Dallas Bike Works. You may know John from his wonderful 1/2 Chupacabra dog Zoe - she's been seen many times on MTBR! We absolutely love her. John and his Optimus Ti can be found at Ouachita Challenge on April 5th - an 80 mile race - and ORAMM is one of his favorites!

David Nice was the first to get one of the new 2008 Jabberwocky frames. Riding the Snuffleupagus Orange and WB Rock Solid Carbon 29 David's preference is a fixed gear. Noticing he does not use a rear brake we were a bit baffled too. Quote "Rear brakes only seem to slow me down!" - that's what we like to hear. Ride it your way! You can catch David on his new ride at the Trans Iowa and Burn 24 Challenge among others. Check out the race schedule to see the full events or read up on David in his crazy adventures at his blog!

Brian Archer hailing to us from Tennessee seems to be collecting our frames and making a bike for every type of riding and racing he does. Currently owning a Black Jabberwocky and a Yellow Jabberwocky he could not resist the Optimus Ti and of course a Snuffy Jabberwocky. Which will soon be arriving at his door. Next on his list is the Fisticuff cross frame. Brian is coming back to us after a great 2007 season. You can find Brian at the Cohutta and Burn 24 Challenge as well - among a growing list of races.

Are you ready for some dirt?

2008 Supported Riders - Are you ready?

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As with our Team Riders we also highlight races and events that our supported riders hit! You can check their blogs and read up on the news from their front.

Team Addictive - Awww...come on - if you don't know them you haven't been paying attention! They'll be riding and racing a mix of Jabberwocky and Bandersnatch. Team Addictive also provides neutral support at many races in the southeast. I'm sure you can usually find one of them around. You can read up on their schedules and rides through Cody or Hodge! Thanks guys - you're awesome!

Team Halfway There - our military force coming from DC and Virginia. They're like ninjas in the night - come in for a race and then shipped back out for a few weeks only to come back and race again! We love the secrecy!

Steve and Zach Stilwell out of Minnesota have been hanging out with us for a while. Steve recently upgraded to an Optimus Ti which will soon arrive at his door and Zach Stilwell still riding the Jabberwocky at his cross races will be receiving a much deserved Fisticuff cross frame! Congrats guys!

Ben Shockey out of Decorah Bicycles in Iowa is our newest support rider. Once he climbed aboard we didn't let him go. He's been out there racing and riding up a storm through the snow and rain. You can check Ben out at the Trans Iowa - he will be riding the first ever Fisticuff cross frame in a special powdercoat color custom created just for him. Kick ass Ben!

Jeremy Arnold out of North Carolina who recently led a band of Canadians around the trails of Pisgah and Dupont has been with us for more than a year. Still riding his Jabberwocky and Bandersnatch Jeremy is heading out for the race course of the southeast. First stop is Dragon's Back in Roanoke Virginia.

Chris Davis also out of North Carolina who joined us last April is continuing his quest of races throughout the southeast. Chris owns a carnation pink Bandersnatch and a Black Jabberwocky and is currently moving to the ODIS rigid fork. Chris will be with his brothers on steel at the Dragon's Back and Cohutta 100.

Congrats everyone - we're looking forward to the season.

"Freak show Zoe" and a sub 22lb. OptimusTi

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One of the first available OptimusTi builds ridden by Vassago team rider J. Sanborn. We are anxiously awaiting our WTB kits for the season, thus the Kenda shoes. The bike weighs in at just under 22lbs with gears and Fox fork. Ah'Niceeee.

Expect to see more of Zoe (the pseudo-chupacabra) and the OptimusTi as the race season kicks off for '08.