Evans Cycles has announced exclusive UK distribution/retail rights of Louis Garneau products through its network of 43-nationwide stores and mail order/online facilities.

The first products to reach UK shores will be triathlon-focused, along with a range of high-end road race helmets.

First stock is scheduled to arrive mid-April with more comprehensive range to follow with the arrival of the Canadian manufacturer’s cycling clothing, helmets and accessories collection for autumn/winter 2011.

Louis Garneau supply the Europcar UCI Pro Continental team, who have two-time Tour de France stage winner Thomas Voeckler and 2010 King of the Mountains victor Anthony Charteau on their roster, along with the Canadian Cycling Association.

“Louis Garneau has been focused on developing the European market,” said Louis Garneau international sales manager Bruno-Luc Gauthier.

“The United Kingdom is strategic in this process due to its economy and similarity of the independent bicycle dealer retail structure to that of North America.

“Evans Cycles was the ideal candidate with retail coverage throughout the country, e-commerce and mail order sales, and a strong online presence via social media, a blog, and their own website.”

Evans Cycles clothing buyer Paul Markland added: “I am excited to be working with a market leader in cycle apparel and look forward to introducing Louis Garneau’s innovation and value to the UK market.”