British Cycling is gearing up for the Paris Olympics with a cutting-edge track bike that promises to push technological boundaries and enhance the team’s prospects of maintaining their dominance in the sport. Developed in collaboration with Lotus Engineering, Renishaw, and Hope Technology, the new bike, unveiled on Monday, incorporates state-of-the-art features, including 3D-printed components.
Over the past three years, British Cycling has refined the design of the bike, evolving it from the radical model used in the delayed Tokyo Olympics of 2021. The latest iteration boasts a Renishaw titanium crank that’s 3D-printed, aerodynamic forks inspired by fighter jets and designed by Lotus, and a drag-minimizing frame crafted by Hope Technology based in Lancashire.
Mark Stringer, Commercial Director at Lotus Engineering, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “Lotus’s longstanding collaboration with British Cycling has been pivotal in advancing the frontiers of sporting performance and engineering with the 2024 Hope-Lotus Olympic track bike.”
British Cycling’s commitment to providing cutting-edge equipment to its athletes has contributed to the nation’s cycling prowess at the Olympics. Despite facing increased competition, particularly in track events, where Britain secured seven medals in Tokyo, including three golds, the team remains confident in their technological edge.
Stephen Park, Performance Director at British Cycling, highlighted the team’s dedication to innovation, stating, “British Cycling has a long and renowned history of being a world-leader in bike technology, and we are continuing to break new ground when it comes to the speed, efficiency, and innovation of track bikes.”
The new track bike made its competitive debut when Will Tidball rode it to victory in the scratch race at last year’s world championships in Glasgow. With the bike officially registered and homologated under UCI rules for the Paris 2024 Games in July and August, British Cycling anticipates that this cutting-edge technology will provide their riders with the optimal platform for success on the track.