Priority Bicycles has made a bold move by launching its first-ever professional enduro racing team, the Priority Racing Team (PRT), and pairing it with two top-tier riders, Evan Wall and Lief Rodgers. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for the company, as it introduces its cutting-edge Gates Belt Drive Vanth high-pivot enduro bike to the global enduro racing scene. The Vanth, a product of Priority's 12-year commitment to Gates Belt Drive innovation, is now set to prove its mettle in real-world race conditions.
What makes this announcement particularly intriguing is the company's decision to venture into the realm of professional enduro racing, a domain traditionally dominated by chain-derailleur drivetrains. Connor Swegle, Co-founder and CMO at Priority Bicycles, explains, "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 rider who began in cross-country racing before transitioning to enduro, has been making waves. His recent win on the Vanth in Kelowna, coupled with a top-five finish in the 2025 UCI Enduro World Series, showcases his prowess. Rodgers' calculated approach and focus on race execution make him an ideal candidate to showcase the Vanth's capabilities. He praises the bike's suspension design, noting, "From the first lap, it didn’t feel like anything I’d ever ridden before. The suspension smooths everything out, and the silence is something everyone notices right away."
Evan Wall, a Canadian enduro racer and graduate of the 2020 Pinkbike Academy, brings his own brand of aggression and speed to the team. Known for his top-10 finishes in major enduro races, Wall finds the Vanth to be a game-changer. "I’m honored to be chosen by Priority to help launch this team. They’re building a bike that’s incredibly planted and predictable when it matters most," he says. Wall's ability to push harder for longer, especially on rough, steep tracks, makes him a perfect fit for the Vanth.
The partnership between Wall and Rodgers extends beyond the race course. As both training partners and competitors, they collaborate closely, sharing feedback and refining their setups. This collaborative approach adds an intriguing layer to the team's dynamics. Additionally, the PRT will produce vlog-style content, offering a behind-the-scenes look at race preparation, course conditions, and rider perspectives, further engaging the global enduro community.
What makes this venture even more fascinating is the potential disruption it could bring to the enduro racing scene. By introducing a high-pivot enduro bike with a Gates Belt Drive system, Priority Bicycles challenges the status quo. The Vanth's performance in real-world conditions, as demonstrated by Rodgers and Wall, suggests that it could be a game-changer. The bike's ability to handle technical terrain and provide consistent performance is a testament to Priority's innovation.
In my opinion, this move by Priority Bicycles is a bold and strategic step. By entering the world of professional enduro racing, the company is not just testing its product but also challenging the established norms. The Vanth's performance in the hands of skilled riders like Rodgers and Wall will undoubtedly spark curiosity and interest among enduro enthusiasts worldwide. As the season unfolds, we can expect to see the Vanth in action, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in enduro racing.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a paradigm shift in enduro racing. The Vanth's success could inspire other manufacturers to explore alternative drivetrains, leading to a more diverse and innovative racing landscape. Additionally, the collaborative approach of the PRT could set a new standard for team dynamics, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and mutual growth. As the season progresses, we'll be watching with great interest to see how the Priority Racing Team and the Vanth enduro bike fare against the competition.
In conclusion, Priority Bicycles' entry into professional enduro racing is a significant development, offering a fresh perspective on the sport. The Vanth's performance and the PRT's collaborative approach have the potential to shape the future of enduro racing. As the season unfolds, we can expect to see a thrilling display of skill, innovation, and teamwork, all while pushing the boundaries of what's possible on two wheels.
