page 2 2013 Montesa Compound and Truck tour
The Montesa team consisted of about 15 people. All of the competition department was there in addition to people who work with Fuji in a seperate small department, north of Barcelona.
The guy with his back to us in this photo is the main mechanic. I met him in the factory visit. He's a real hard worker and never stops for one second. He's a friendly guy as well.
The guy with his back to us in this photo is the main mechanic. I met him in the factory visit. He's a real hard worker and never stops for one second. He's a friendly guy as well.
The little frame that you cam see sticking out holds a wheel in position when a tyre is changed. Fuji's rear tyre was changed half an hour before the start. They put the tyre on dry with no lubrication, to stop slip on the rim. Oscar explained to me that they changed the tyre because Michelin Xlite tyres are better suited to the wet and mud, where standard X11's are better in the dry. Due to the heavy rain on Sunday morning they opted for the X Lite.
The minders come out and Oscar keeps an eye on proceedings. I have to say that the team is so so so professional. They quietly get on with their work, with no fuss or chatting to much of an extent. They are really concentrating and there is a slight sense of anticipation and forboding in the camp.
A few last minute details
I ask to go in the truck to take photos and Oscar says sorry no the riders are getting changed.
Then Toni appears
Then Toni appears
Toni Bou wanders around whilst I take more photos of the bikes. I get the slight feeling that he wants time to think and concentrate.
A beautifully made bike, but those tiny black wires look vulnerable, don't they ?