Assuming you ride somewhere outside the borders of Antarctica, you have likely already heard about the injustice being imposed on our friend and fellow Velominatus, Dan Richter who goes around these parts as @Dan_R.
I’ve been riding Dan’s wheels for a bit over a year, and they are the best I’ve ever had. After hearing about the suit a few months back, I was proud to help him brainstorm some ways he might be able to salvage his brand or come up with a new one while admitting the court battle was out of reach.
But when the article broke in the Calgary Herald this weekend, all hell broke loose. It goes without saying the pride I feel whenever our community here at Velominati comes together for a good cause, but what went on over the last 48 hours was an unbelievable coming-together of not just us, but the Cycling community as a whole. Regardless of the final result, this past weekend made me proud to call myself a Cyclist more than ever, for we proved we not only love riding our bikes, but that we as a worldwide community have each other’s collective backs.
I had an article planned for today, one taking the piss out of ourselves and everyone else as we usually do. But it just didn’t feel right. Instead, I thought we’d post the Packfiller podcast from Bulger Media. This is my fourth time on the show, but this time Patrick (@packfiller) was able to get Dan on the call with us. It was fantastic to hear Dan still has his sense of humor and it was a pleasure share a good laugh with him.
Here’s hoping Specialized comes to their senses, observes Rule #43, and drops the suit. If not, we’ll stand in solidarity, never buying another Specialized product again. The good news is that either way, Dan will rebuild his brand and his shop will live on, stronger than ever. (Insert Shakespeare quote about names here.)
Its a long listen, but we cover the important Café Roubaix stuff early on. Enjoy. And Vive La Vie Velominatus.
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View Comments
I heard that S are going to sue Spartacus for winning Roubaix on a Trek
@cognition I agree, it's fucked up...
Victory! Herald (front page!) this afternoon reports Specialized founder and CEO Mike Sinyard gave him a call and things are cool - he keeps the name.
Also, it's true what they say - what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. The store got some great PR from all this. In fact, I ride through that town 5-6 times every summer -had no idea- saw the sign once from a distance and thought I have to stop sometime for a mid ride expresso. Now that I know what he does I think I'll make a point of stopping by for a new set of wheels.
So, the general consensus is win? All is forgiven now? Because...well... a certain bike company sponsors Evelyn Steven's team:
http://velociosports.com/our-2014-team-announced/
So glad we wouldn't take this brand hating too far. Because...I wouldn't want our personal dislikes of matters regarding financial matters...matters of business...intrude into our enjoyment of sport and competition. Would we?
/TrollOff
Coincidentally, Lululemon pushed out its founder/chairman today in the name of damage control. Beyond his recent customer-alienating comments he was well known as a micro-manager and loose cannon. But he only owns 20% of the company...
@RoubaixInTwoYears
Haha. Nice try.
@frank
Nonetheless, it was pretty easy to cut away the branded label from a couple of pieces of kit.
@RoubaixInTwoYears
It is great that the community in the global cycling village is so clear on this one and that the giant (oh shit, am I going to get sued?) has been shown the light.
@eightzero
LEAVE EVIE ALONE!
@gordo
Thanks for the phone msg Gordo. I have your number and I will be getting back to you as soon as I can.
@Cyclops
No need to worry about that. Well just print..er order more! More news on that soon.
To all of the Velominatus, Thank you!