Team CRC/Nukeproof debuted the new Nukeproof Pulse over the weekend at the Val d'Isère World Cup, where Matt Simmonds continued his solid run of form finishing in 14th place, Joe Smith in 26th, Lewis Buchanan 48th and Al Bond 64th.
According to Team Manager Nigel Page, the race in Val d'Isère was one of the most exciting rounds he’d ever seen: “The steep, fast exposed course proved to be one of the best places we have had a race. The cameras were able to film the entire race and the track made for some of the closest and most exciting racing ever, with a great crowd turnout and one of the most beautiful scenic venues in the world!”
“All the team raced on their brand new Nukeproof Pulse downhill bikes to the delight of the race fans and world media and the riders had great feedback from everyone loving the new bikes.”
Matt Simmonds had another great finish in 14th position, only four seconds from the win - proving that the new Nukeproof Pulse is already a bike to contend at the top level of World Cup downhill! Matt moves up another place in the men's overall to 16th.
Joe Smith had another solid result in 26th. Joe said he just rode a little too cautiously as the track conditions had changed a lot and lines had blown out. This result moves Joe back into the top 20 overall though, which is fantastic.
Lewis Buchanan was having a great run in the final, starting early as he had rain during his qualifying run. Lewis was 29th on the first split but unfortunately went off the track in one of the most important parts of the course to carry speed, losing a bit of time. Through the speed trap after this, Lewis was more than 10km/h slower than everyone else. He carried on and put in a fast effort for the rest of his run finishing in 48th.
Al Bond loved the fast loose track and was hoping for a good result. Unfortunately Al suffered again from bad arm pump, forcing him to ride slower so his hands didn't come off the bars! Al was really disappointed ending up 64th for the day but still with over 230 riders racing it was still a solid result and a great weekend for the team on the new bikes.
Congratulations to Brook MacDonald taking his first ever World Cup win in such an amazing race! Well done to Gee Atherton, Josh Bryceland and Greg Minnaar who also finished on the podium. Aaron Gwin has now sealed the overall 2012 World Cup win with a fifth place finish in Val d'Isère, a stunning result for this year’s stand-out rider. Nice one Aaron!