Opus Bike sponsors François Parisien

Opus Bike will sponsor recently retired pro road cyclist François Parisien in his new cycling endeavours. The Quebec native is considering racing on the mountain bike circuit during the 2014 season.

“I had worked with Opus and Outdoor Gear Canada in the past when I was an amateur rider,” Parisien said. “Back then they were sponsoring me with an Opus Bike and helped me with Giro products as well. On top of that, they are supporting a lot of Canadian athletes, so I think after my retirement announcement it was easy for them to add me to the list of riders they already had.”

Parisien, who competed for the WorldTour team Argos-Shimano during his last year of competition on the road, is thinking about racing mountain bikes this season.  “I’m still considering that option,” he said. “It’s been a dream for many years and I would like to accomplish it in the next three to five years.”

Following his retirement from professional road racing, Parisien joined the Montreal-based PowerWatts International indoor training facility as a coach. He will be riding Opus Bike this year but will be wearing the PowerWatts jersey at local races.

“I’m currently working full-time at PowerWatts International,” Parisien said. “I find it completely different from when I was a pro cyclist but at the same time it’s a great challenge and I’m having a lot of fun. It’s a rewarding new job. The guys here are all friends and they are helping me with the transition period. I think the relationship that I have with them makes it easier for me.”

Opus Bike will provide Parisien with road, mountain and cyclocross bikes. Outdoor Gear Canada will also provide him with Giro products, Easton, Selle Italia, Shimano, SpeedPlay, Vittoria, Thule and Camelbak.