GARMIN-SLIPSTREAM UNVEILS NEW TEAM KIT

Team Garmin-Slipstream has unveiled its new kit for 2009. Although the familiar blue, orange and argyle design remains, there's a shift in the team name and new thinking behind the technical aspects of the clothing.

One noticeable thing about the strip is the absence of previous secondary sponsor Chipotle - the squad was known as Garmin-Chipotle last season. Although the fast food company is still a sponsor of the squad, its name has been replaced by team owner Slipstream's name.

"We are still powered by Chipotle burritos, as we always have been. Chipotle is our secret training weapon," confirmed team boss Jonathan Vaughters.

Cycling kit manufacturer Pearl Izumi has worked closely with the squad in developing the clothing - which has always ranked as one of the more original designs in the peloton.

One of Garmin-Slipstream's team strengths is is performance against the clock, having scooped the opening team time trial stage at the 2008 Giro d'Italia. Specially made aerodynamic skin suits have been created for each member of the team, hand-stitched at Pearl Izumi's factory in Colorado, USA.

"We constantly uncover the best technology and work with the best sponsors to give our athletes the competitive advantage,? said Vaughters.

"Our unique partnership with Pearl Izumi ensures that our guys are training and racing with the best kits available. And our signature argyle ensures that they stand out from the pack."

Garmin-Slipstream includes Britons David Millar and Bradley Wiggins, as well as Ireland's Daniel Martin and 'honourary Brit' Magnus Backstedt, the Swedish Paris-Roubaix winner who resides in South Wales.

The team has stepped up to ProTour level for 2009, and will be contesting all of the major races including the three Grand Tours. A seven-man squad is currently in Australia for the 2009 Tour Down Under where the team's sprinter, Julian Dean, will be hoping to grab a stage win or two.

RELATED LINKS

David Millar: Rider Profile

Bradley Wiggins: Rider Profile

Magnus Backstedt: Rider Profile

Wiggins out training in new Garmin colours

EXTERNAL LINKS

Team Garmin-Slipstream website