Once again, June brings us an avalanche of cycling activity. In the middle of our hectic season the pro teams call for Cycles BiKyle technical support. This year we were happy to provide full support to two international teams, the Krka Telekom team from Europe and the Jet Fuel team from Canada. Both teams were in the U.S. to compete in the First Union Pro series - Wilmington DE, Lancaster PA, and Trenton NJ - followed by the great international one day, the U.S. Pro Championships in Philadelphia on June 6, 1999. From the moment the planes and support cars landed our staff was in full overdrive to make certain all the bikes and spare wheels were ready for the toughest combat of the year.

And because we weren't quite busy enough, staff for Greg Lemond called to say that they were sending Greg's bike in. He would be in Philadelphia for the festivities. Would we get his bike together for his personal appearances? Of course, we are always happy to take care of that. So grab another wrench guys, we're working a little OT!

What's it like taking care of the pro teams for big races like this? First, you need an experienced staff that can really step forward. Then, you turn them loose to do the stuff they know and love best. The bikes arrive in pretty good shape. But, the teams have been racing hard and while out on the road there is never enough time to do everything. So our chief mechanics, Bryan and Neil, go through each and every bike to clean, adjust, and lube. As always, there are some headsets and bottom brackets to replace and 1 or 2 derailleurs have to go. Plus, there are always a few brand new parts to install just to check out and test for future reference. Lastly, for a big series like this, there are brand new wheels that need to be pulled up then test ridden. Change a few tires and wrap a few handlebars, then find a little time for sleep. The riders are always great. Many don't speak English, but as soon as they know that they are being well taken care of they smile lots and just let our guys do their work.

If you've done your preparation well, race day is usually fairly easy - and fun. There will always be a few last minute adjustments. Or as in Lancaster, one rear derailleur to replace 10 minutes before start time! But, our experienced mechanics handle the stuff in stride. During the races, Kyle drives one support car, the hot Saab wagon. And Radeza Cubric, director of the Telekom team, drives the Saturn support car. Neil and Bryan, each with a load of wheels and tools, ride shotgun. The driving is VERY HECTIC, but all the needed support goes smoothly. Four flats, a few derailleur tweaks, and plenty of water bottle hand-ups, that was about it for the four races. Not bad at all - chaulk it up to good luck luck and good  preparation.

Though the racing may be over, the work is not quite finished. Find the missing support wheels, pack the bikes, clean the tools, grab a 15 minute nap and a quick shower. Join the post race team dinner - it's all laughs and fun now. Then the hardest part - say goodbye to another great group of racers. With plenty of promises to stay in touch, send them on their way to the next big event.         .............. Now, time for some real sleep!