A ride in the passenger seat of a Mavic Neutral Support vehicle provides the best view of a professional cycling race any fan could dream of.

A hallmark of the Grand Tours and pro races since 1973, the iconic yellow brand is gaining momentum here in North America as a touch point not only for elite athletes but for the everyday rider as well. There’s truly nothing like having the race director in your ear, zipping and ripping along an entire pro tour stage in the famed yellow car.

“Not many people realize but Mavic invented the concept of Neutral support – way back in 1973 at Paris-Nice. Ever since that time, regardless of sponsor, Mavic has been present for professional riders at their most intense moments of need,” said Mavic NA Brand Manager Mike Wilson. “Thanks to this long history of support and the high visibility of our iconic yellow wagons in some of cycling’s most storied moments, we’re expanding the service course around the world so that we can also bring this same level of trusted neutral support to all riders competing in some of their most intense events and gran fondos. We’ve seen that our consumers want to be involved and participate in the action and we have a new program coming for 2016 where we’ll be parking one of our wagons or motorcycles at expo areas where they can sit in the car and hear what’s happening on the race radio – as well as follow us on social media to see what’s happening in the race from a first hand viewpoint through #insidetheyellowcar.”

Follow Along

Upcoming Events to Spot the Yellow Car:

CAF Cycling Challenge; Manhattan: October 3-4

Westlake Village Century; Westlake Village, CA: October 3

Jensie Gran Fondo; Mill Valley, CA: October 9-10

Hincapie Gran Fondo; Greenville, SC: October 23-24

Krempels King of the Road Challenge; Stratham, NH: October 17

Mike Nosco Memorial Ride; Newbury Park, CA: November 3

Tour de Tucson; Tucson, AZ: November 19-21

Borrego Springs Cycling Camp; Borrego Springs: December 7-11

–Story and photos by Aaron H. Bible