Priority Bicycles Enters UCI World Cup Racing with the Priority Race Team

Priority Bicycles has made a significant leap into competitive mountain biking by launching the Priority Race Team to compete in the UCI Enduro World Cup. Known primarily for their belt-driven commuter bikes, Priority recently expanded into the high-end mountain bike market with the Vanth, an innovative enduro model featuring a high-pivot suspension system and a Gates belt drive paired with a Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox. The team, comprising riders Evan Wall and Lief Rodgers, will debut the Vanth at the World Cup event in France later this May, marking Priority’s first foray into elite-level racing. The Vanth stands out for its unique design elements, including a double seat mast that supports the suspension pivots, an aluminium front end combined with a carbon monocoque rear, and 165mm of rear travel. This configuration aims to optimise performance and ease of maintenance, particularly through the bike’s single rear swingarm that facilitates quick belt changes. Priority co-founder Connor Swegle emphasises that the Vanth represents years of development and a commitment to proving the belt-driven system’s capabilities under the rigours of professional racing. Both riders bring strong credentials to the team. Lief Rodgers, who transitioned from cross-country to enduro racing, has already achieved top-five finishes in the UCI Enduro World Series and recently secured a podium spot at the Squamish Enduro. Rodgers praised the Vanth’s smooth suspension and notably quiet operation, highlighting its distinct riding experience. Meanwhile, Evan Wall, winner of the 2020 Pinkbike Academy, is known for his aggressive style and consistent top-ten results, with his riding approach well suited to the Vanth’s high-pivot geometry and rearward axle path. Priority plans to use the 2026 racing season not only to test the Vanth across diverse terrain but also to gather valuable feedback to refine the bike’s design further. The team will participate in major enduro events throughout the year and share insights through a series of vlogs, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at race preparation and performance. This strategic move signals Priority’s ambition to establish itself as a serious contender in the competitive mountain biking arena while showcasing the potential of belt-driven technology in high-performance racing.