Troy Lee Designs (TLD), a provider of off-road motorcycling and mountain biking gear and apparel based in Corona, CA, received an investment from Spanos Barber Jesse & Co. (SBJ), a private investment firm with offices in the San Francisco Bay Area and Dallas.
Founder, Chairman and Chief Design Officer Troy Lee has retained a significant ownership stake in the company and continues to lead TLD’s design efforts.
TLD produces helmets, protective equipment and performance-driven apparel sold through independent dealers, international distributors and online retailers, including the company’s website. The company also sponsors professional supercross and motocross teams as well as mountain bike riders.
“It is a privilege to partner with Troy and to be entrusted with helping him realize his vision for growing the company,” said Tom Barber, managing director at SBJ. “Troy is a design legend and has built a truly exceptional brand, having earned the trust and respect of the best racers in the world as well as racing enthusiasts for over 30 years. We look forward to working with Troy to protect and build on that legacy.”
In addition, TLD has named Dave Bertram as chief executive officer. Bertram previously served as founding chairman and chief executive officer at Cycle Gear, a multi-channel retailer of apparel, parts and accessories for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles in the U.S.
Under his leadership, Cycle Gear grew from a local retailer with three locations to a national chain with 112 stores in 34 states. Bertram also had a 10-year career as a professional motorcycle racer, during which he won two National Titles, five International Gold Medals and 10 state championships. “I have always admired Troy and the TLD brand,” said Bertram. “I’m thrilled to partner with Troy and SBJ as we work to unlock the brand’s full potential while remaining true to its heritage.”
“SBJ provides us with the financial support and strategic expertise that we need to take TLD to the next level,” said Lee. “And Dave brings a wealth of operating experience to help us tighten up our execution, which will help us serve our suppliers and customers even better and enable us to develop more of the awesome products we are known for.”
