Our First Newsletter…

Bike Switzerland to acquire new fleet of Alpen Challenge 02

I visited BMC Headquarters in Grenchen last month and spoke with the Swiss Market Manager, Steven Jonckheer. We discussed promotional projects and the purchase of a new fleet of bicycles.

Although not yet finalized, we plan to acquire 35 new Alpen Challenge 02 bikes for our 2009 tours. These are the same 27-speed hybrids that we have always used, and although last year’s model was silver, BMC went back to black for the 2009 models.

Steven also informed me that BMC has plans to come out with their own complete clothing product line for Spring of 2009. I’m very excited about this because BMC’s current crop of jerseys, jackets and assessories are stunning and (almost) as sexy as anything Assos.   Check out their products here.

New Geneva Hotel for 2009 Tours

Starting in June of 2009, Bike Switzerland will be using the Hotel Cornavin as our Geneva base. No worries… the new hotel has 4-stars, gym/sauna and great panoramic views of Geneva. The hotel is a one-minute walk from the train station, so getting you and your gear from the airport to your room is still very easy.

The hotel is owned and operated by Marc Fassbind who is also a commuter-cyclist and tandem rider. We’re hoping that he and his wife are able to join our group for the first day of riding. You can check out the hotel at this link.

Facebook

Bike Switzerland now has a presence on FACEBOOK. You can “be a fan” by following this link . You’ll find me, David and other past guides and riders here as well, so become a member and don’t forget to “friend” me.

Stagecoach Tours

Bike Switzerland is a sponsor and advertiser for this years Stagecoach Tours. These are one-day century tours (with lower mileage options) in Southern California. These roadbike rides take place 3 or 4 times a year and their itineraries are off the beaten track (desert, nature, little traffic). The next event is Saturday, January 17th, so if you’re in the San Diego area, you might want to check out their site here.

January 1st prices

Remember that you can lock in our 2008 tour price for next year by paying a $500 deposit before January 1st. Our new tour prices will be announced on January 1st and will go into effect immediately at that time, so if you’re considering a tour, best to get in a deposit.

Our tours are looking very healthy for 2009. Our Lite Tour for August 27th is already half full ! Please consider signing up soon if this date works best for you.

Merry Christmas…more news when it happens.

John

Carouge, Switzerland