Kelly Benefit wind tunnel days

Just a few years ago some UCI Continental Team were lucky if they received more than just aero bars for their road bikes to compete in TT events. But more and more teams and their sponsors understand now that racing TT events is very important and that they need to do a better job in that area.

So for the last two days, the Kelly Benefit Strategies Team sent 8 athletes to North Carolina where they were adjusted on their new Orbea Ordu bikes. Sponsor representatives Max Ralph from FSA, Nate Field from Mavic and Chris Smith from Lazer where also on hand to answer questions about their products and see them in action.

Team riders fitted

– Ryan Anderson

– Andrew Bajadali

– Zach Bell

– Guy East

– Reid Mumford

– Neil Shirley

– David Veilleux

– Scott Zwizanski

Manager on site

Jonas Carney

All images © Herbert Krabel

Yes, Godspeed Lane is the name where the A2 Wind Tunnel is.

The A2 Wind Tunnel building where the bikes are getting tested

Mike Giraud is responsible for bikes at A2 and has a ton of experience in the wind tunnel.

All is quiet in the tunnel right now

Reid Mumford awaits his turn to get dialed in.

Some of these Orbea Ordus have finished their time in the tunnel.

Mumford is now getting warmed up.

The A2 Wind Tunnel has a big variety of helmets (and aero bars) on hand for individuals who come by for testing.

The Orbea Ordu set up with Mavic wheels and FSA aero bars

Zach Bell is focused on the task at hand

The A2 wind tunnel is capable of testing up to 85 mph

With his testing already done, David Veilleux is getting packed up for the trip home

Team mechanic Eric Jellum is also busy packing up

While packing his own bike, Neil Shirley got a battle scar

Chris Smith from Laser with the Tardis helmet. (Time And Relative Dimensions In Space from Doctor Who)

Mike Giraud is setting up the final bike

Max Ralph from FSA was lending a hand

Scott Zwizanski is making sure the aero booties are in place

Zwizanski was the last test subject of the day

A group pic with the athletes, management, sponsors and other attendees was taken a bit earlier as some folks had to leave.