Get ready to witness the future of American cycling—a bold, high-octane spectacle that’s set to redefine what it means to race on two wheels. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this the evolution cycling needs, or a risky gamble that could alienate traditional fans? Let’s dive in.
The 2026 season is heating up with the formation of Team Cadence Cyclery p/b Waldo Racing, a Texas-based powerhouse born from the merger of two elite domestic teams. This isn’t just another racing squad—it’s a statement. Anchored by USPro criterium champions Lucas Bourgoyne (elite men’s title holder) and Luke Fetzer (U23 men’s winner), the team has now added veterans Cade Bickmore and Danny Summerhill to its roster. These aren’t just any riders; they’re proven performers with a hunger for victory. Summerhill, fresh off 21 top-10 finishes last year, including a stage win at the Redlands Bicycle Classic, brings a wealth of experience. Bickmore, meanwhile, made a bold choice to leave European opportunities behind, prioritizing the stability and financial rewards of criterium racing as he eyes the 2028 track goals.
And this is the part most people miss: This team isn’t just about winning races—it’s about revolutionizing the sport’s culture. Thanks to the merger with Waldo Racing, Cadence Cyclery has invested heavily in logistics, transforming into a mobile marketing juggernaut. Picture this: a 45-foot branded RV, a 36-foot trailer, and a towed minivan, creating an 85-foot mega rig that’s part event center, part content hub, and part cost-saving machine. Bourgoyne calls it a “supercross setup meets rock and roll,” designed to engage fans, cut travel costs, and elevate the sport’s profile. With eight beds on board, it’s a game-changer for affordability in crit racing.
But is this glitz and glamour what cycling truly needs? Bourgoyne thinks so. He envisions criterium racing as the next big thing—a high-action, adrenaline-fueled spectacle that Americans crave. “Crashes, blood, guts—it’s all wrapped up in an hour and a half,” he says. Here’s the bold question: Can cycling really compete with supercross or motocross, or is this a stretch too far? The team’s debut at Pace Bend Weekend in Texas and the USA CRITS in Alabama will be the first test of this ambitious vision.
Behind the scenes, the team’s success is no accident. Jackie, a 30-year veteran of sports marketing and public relations, brings her expertise to the table. As the founder of Peloton Sports and Bike Alpharetta Inc., she’s no stranger to elevating sports. Her involvement underscores the team’s commitment to professionalism and growth.
So, what do you think? Is this the future of cycling, or a flashy distraction? Will this model raise the bar, or is it a risky experiment? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
