Leading bike manufacturer Specialized is set to team-up with the highly popular Dartmoor Classic cyclosportive following a visit by representatives of the Devon event to the Specialized stand at the recent London Cycle Show.

The Dartmoor Classic’s organisers left with a proposal – contents yet to be revealed – which they believe will add substantially to the ride experience of all who take part in the annual ride through the Dartmoor National Park. “We always like to try and spoil the riders in our event, by giving them the professional racing experience without the racing.” said Ron Keegan, spokesman for the Mid-Devon Cycling Club, who stage the annual fixture. “Now, with Specialized’s generous offer of support, we can really add great value to the whole sportive experience.”

Following agreement on the Specialized proposal, the event’s Chief Organiser, Ken Robertson, said “The association with Specialized, a company with a worldwide reputation, is a result of the hard work put in by the membership of the Mid-Devvon C.C. over the life of the event. Specialized recognises the detailed planning that goes on and that has resulted in each year’s Dartmoor Classic sportive exceeding the standards set in the previous year. With the undoubted expertise that Specialized can bring to bear, the 2011 event will surpass anything that has been seen in South West cycling circles.”

Richard Hemington, MD of Specialized explained “Sportives are a popular activity and a great way of getting out on your bike and challenging your abilities. The Dartmoor Classic is a prestigious event that we are proud to be involved with and a perfect partnership for Specialized.”

Simon Aske, the proprietor of club sponsor Colin Lewis Cycles, said; “This is a great opportunity to take the Dartmoor Classic to the next level and I will continue to support the event and the club in any way I can.”    

The fifth edition of the Dartmoor Classic, which takes place on 26th June 2011, certainly promises to deliver a fantastic cycling experience.

The event’s association with Specialized launches on Oct. 31st, when on-line entry opens at www.dartmoorclassic.co.uk