Evil Bikes have signed World Cup downhill racer and Vancouver Island native Steve Smith.
The 18-year-old Canadian will ride the US firm's new Revolt downhill bike, which features Dave Weagle's new DELTAsystem suspension platform.
Team-mate Thomas Vanderham said: "I first started hearing Steve’s name four or five years ago when I was still racing BC and Canada Cups. It was always murmured along with phrases like 'the next big Canadian racer' and 'has the potential to do well at World Cup level'.
"This year Steve took big steps to reaching that potential with a breakout season, which saw him claim the US Open title, post a 10th place finish at the Andorra World Cup and debut in the film Seasons.
"I'm excited to have Stevie as a teammate. We've always had a great time hanging together and I like the confident approach he brings to his riding."
Asked why he had decided to leave Cove to ride for Evil, Steve said: "A lot of reasons. I am really stoked to ride a good bike, so working with Dave Weagle is a big motivation. Gabe Fox [former marketing manager for Cove who has moved to Evil] is also someone I’ve been working with for five years, and he’s helped me out a lot. I also liked the feel of the company - it’s a small group with a family atmosphere, so I think it’s a good fit for me."
In 2009, Steve will race the full World Cup circuit, as well as the US Open, Canadian Nationals and Crankworx. Asked what his goals were, he said: "I'd like to podium at World Cup races. I’m going to work hard in the off-season to try to avoid injuries, and of course have fun!"
For a full interview with Steve, visit Evil Bikes' website.
