Top teams and riders on the U.S. domestic racing scene
The flash and tradition of UCI World and European Tour bike racing rightfully attracts fans’ attention and spectating time, especially as live video feeds render these races increasingly accessible across the world. But this category of racing also falsely seduces fans into thinking it’s the only competition that matters.
Boulder-Roubaix 2012, end of lap 1 (l - r) Julian Kyer, Nic Hamilton, Frank Pipp, Brady Kappius (photo by Mary Topping)
Dozens of American pro and elite cyclists on American pro-continental, continental, and elite teams ride their hearts out every weekend in America, together with international athletes from Europe, Australia, Russia, and South America. Following their results provides insight into who could perform well for those invited to larger U.S. races such as the Amgen Tour of California, the Tour of Utah, and the USA Pro Cycling Challenge. And they deliver exciting races that are fun to watch.
Here’s a look at who’s winning the fight for wheels and wins so far this season on the American domestic racing scene*.
Most stage-race wins for a team: Kenda/5 Hr Energy Pro Cycling p/b GearGrinder — 2 (San Dimas Stage Race and Redlands Bicycle Classic)
Most stage race wins by a rider: tie with 1 each — Phil Gaimon of Kenda/5 Hr Energy, Patrick Bevin of Bissell Pro Cycling, and Micheal Creed of Optum Pro Cycling p/b Kelly Benefit Strategies
Most stage and 1-day race wins for a team: Bissell Pro Cycling — 8 (6 by Patrick Bevin, 1 by Frank Pipp, and 1 by Eric Young)
Most stage and 1-day race wins for a rider: Patrick Bevin on Bissell Pro Cycling (3 at Redlands Bicycle Classic, 3 at Merco Cycling Classic)
*based on results from the USA Cycling National Racing Calendar, USA Cycling National Criterium Calendar, USACrits Calendar, and a collection of local races (selective list).
ProVéloPassion 