First, the video shows numerous failed attempts at stunt biking. On cycles of the garden variety, daredevils try to leapfrog on craggy mountains, climb stairs and scale logs placed as hurdles — with unimpressive results. In stark contrast, Chris Akrigg performs the same stunts with incredible ease. The point is: he is riding a Mongoose bike that is made for mountain and stunt biking. Similarly, another video highlights the features of GT bikes. The day does not end with these images for the invited mediapersons. They try the GT and Mongoose bikes parked outside the Ballroom at Taj Connemara.
The event was organised by TI Cycles of India that is bringing GT and Mongoose cycles to the country. Eight models of GT bikes (ranging from Rs. 14,000 to Rs. 36,000) and six of Mongoose bikes (ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 27,000) will be available at TI outlets. Positive response to Bianchi, Cannondale and Schwinn, offered at TI's Track & Trail outlets, has encouraged the cycle major to expand its range of internationally-acclaimed performance bikes.
D. Raghuram, president, TI Cycles of India, said cycling as a sport and a fitness and recreational activity has gained much ground; he cited the success of TI events, including the fortnightly ‘Fun, Fitness & Freedom Rides' (from Thiruvanmiyur to Mammallapuram, BSA Tour of Nilgiris (900 plus km) and Hercules MTB Himachal (652 km) as motivation to widen its range.
Edward Vlutters, director of international sales (Asia Pacific), Cycling Sports Group, who formally launched the GT and Mongoose bikes, along with Raghuram, explained why these cycles were special.
GT bikes: As the drive train is separate from the front triangle, this bike can perform well on any terrain.
Mongoose bikes: A category of these bikes has given birth to the term Mongooselings, daredevil riders who confidently take on any mountain and can perform any stunt.
