Elkton, MD (May 5, 2009)—W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. and Quality Bicycle Products (QBP) have reached an agreement to distribute Gore's low-friction shift and brake cable systems to independent bike dealers (IBDs) through QBP. The partnership will make the world-renowned GORE™ RideOn® brand available to IBDs nationwide.
GORE™ RideOn® Cable Systems were re-introduced into the United States and Europe in 2007. Since that time, they have quickly become the cable of choice for professional, recreational and serious cyclists. Gore's patented sealed cable system and superior low-friction coating technology have been designed to provide smooth, reliable shifting and braking – regardless of riding conditions.
GORE™ RideOn® Cable Systems are also the cables of choice for SRAM® RED® groupsets – providing the fastest, most precise shifting. They exceed the requirements of the most demanding cyclists. "GORE™ RideOn® Cable Systems are the lowest friction, most durable cable systems available." said Lois Mabon, Global Product Manager of GORE™ RideOn® Cable Systems.
As with all Gore products, the cables are subjected to rigorous testing both in the laboratory and on the road and trail Mabon commented, "Gore's unique cable-coating technology ensures quick, precise shifting and reliable, easy braking in all riding conditions. QBP is one of the premium distributors of cycling products in the US and will be an outstanding partner."
Sell-in began in May 2009, with GORE™ RideOn® Cable Systems available at independent retailers starting in June. Retailers now have the choice to purchase cables directly from Gore or through QBP.
QBP is a leading distributor to more than 5000 retailers across the country and handles more than 250,000 calls per year from their state-of-the-art distribution center. The company offers domestic and international retailers a wide array of products and services including a 1,500-page catalog, a robust online ordering system, a renowned custom wheel service, a specialty bike-building program and more. QBP continues to be a vigorous advocate for the cycling industry. QBP is headquartered in Minnesota and will be opening a western facility in Spring 2010. For more information, please contact Jo Wright, director of marketing at 952 -941-9391, Ext. 1250, or visit: www.qbp.com.
W. L. Gore & Associates has made its name by creating innovative, technology-driven solutions, from high-performance GORE-TEX® fabrics, GORE BIKE WEAR™ and Elixir® guitar strings to medical devices that treat aneurysms. A privately held company whose annual sales exceed $2 billion, Gore is committed to perpetuating its tradition of product innovation that has endured for more than 50 years. Gore focuses its efforts in four main areas: electronics, fabrics, industrial and medical products. The company today claims a manufacturing or sales presence in more than 80 countries, employs more than 8,000 associates and sells thousands of high-performance products in diverse markets around the world. For more information about W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. and Gore products, call 1-800-431-GORE or visit rideoncables.com.
Lois Mabon
GORE™ RideOn® Cable Systems
295 Blue Ball Road
Elkton, MD 21921
Direct: (410) 506-7524
Fax: (410) 506-2545
lmabon@wlgore.com
Tim Gallant
Product Manager, QBP
6400 West 105th Street
Bloomington, MN 55438
Direct: (952) 941-9391
Fax: (952) 941-9799
tgallant@qbp.com
GORE, RIDE ON, GORE-TEX, GORE BIKE WEAR, ELIXIR and designs are trademarks of W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.