Priority Bicycles is making waves in the cycling world with the launch of its new 'Priority Racing Team' (PRT), featuring professional enduro riders Evan Wall and Lief Rodgers. This move marks a significant milestone for the brand, as it showcases their first collaboration with top athletes and the introduction of their innovative Gates Belt Drive Vanth high-pivot enduro bike. The Vanth is designed to revolutionize enduro racing, challenging the dominance of traditional chain-derailleur drivetrains.
The development of the Vanth bike is a testament to Priority Bicycles' commitment to innovation, especially in their 12-year partnership with Gates Belt Drive. After four years of refinement, the Vanth is now ready to prove its performance in real race conditions. Connor Swegle, Co-founder and CMO at Priority Bicycles, emphasizes the bike's potential: "Inspired by competition for Gates’ DH Belted Purse, we built this bike to perform at the highest level, and now we’re putting it in the hands of enduro athletes to show how it can compete."
Lief Rodgers, a versatile racer with a background in cross-country, has been making waves in the enduro scene. His recent win in Kelowna and top-five ranking in the 2025 UCI Enduro World Series demonstrate his skill. Rodgers highlights the Vanth's unique suspension design, which provides a smooth and controlled ride, even on technical terrain. He praises the bike's ability to maintain speed and stability, stating, "From the first lap, it didn’t feel like anything I’d ever ridden before."
Evan Wall, a Canadian enduro racer and graduate of the 2020 Pinkbike Academy, is known for his aggressive style and speed on steep, fast tracks. His top-10 finishes in major enduro races showcase his consistency and skill. Wall appreciates the Vanth's predictability and consistency, which allow him to push harder for longer without compromising control. He believes the bike's design helps him save energy and maintain control in demanding stages.
The partnership between Wall and Rodgers goes beyond competition. As training partners and competitors, they collaborate closely, sharing feedback and refining their setups. This collaborative approach will contribute to the development of the Vanth platform and its performance in various race conditions. Priority Racing Team will also engage with the global enduro community through vlog-style content, offering insights into race preparation and rider perspectives.
The launch of the Priority Racing Team and the Vanth bike is a significant step for Priority Bicycles, challenging the status quo in enduro racing. By putting their innovative bike in the hands of top athletes, the brand aims to showcase its performance and potential on the world stage. As Wall and Rodgers compete in major enduro races, their journey will provide valuable insights into the capabilities of the Vanth and the future of enduro racing technology.
