GE Money’s Sales Finance unit and Cannondale Sports Group (CSG) have entered a multi-year agreement to provide a consumer financing program to CSG dealers nationwide, beginning Jan. 15, 2009. 


Customers can use the card at participating dealers to purchase CSG products, which include the Cannondale, Schwinn, Mongoose and GT Bicycles  brands, components and accessories.  


“Bicycling has long been a favored pastime in the U.S., and today’s economy makes riding a bike even more appealing,” said Bruno Maier, EVP of Marketing for CSG.  “As more people look to purchase bicycles and accessories, we’re excited to work with GE Money to provide a financing program that makes these purchases more convenient and cost effective.” 


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According to America Bikes, a non-profit organization that advocates for positive outcomes in bicycling, more than 40 million adults ride their bike each month, and studies show that at least one third of the adult population rides a bike at least once a year. Additionally, a 2002 survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Bureau of Transportation Statistics, found that 26 percent of cyclists ride for exercise and health and 23.6 ride for recreation, while five percent use their bikes for commuting to school or work.


                                                                                                      


“Riding a bike offers a host of benefits, including better health, saving money on gas, and reducing CO2 emissions,” said Dennis Murphy, vice president of GE Money’s Sporting Goods industry. “The GE Money Sport Card is a great solution for active consumers looking to reap these benefits and fit their purchase of bike and related safety accessories affordably within their budgets.”


 


Current Cannondale, GT, Schwinn or Mongoose dealers should contact their sales representative for further details; or they may contact William Duprey at GE Money directly at (810) 487-1675 or william.duprey@ge.com.