From humble beginnings in 1974, Specialized has continued to grow worldwide without losing our focus on riders, building innovative cycling products that provide a true performance advantage. Over the coming months, we are taking big and exciting growth steps in Australia and New Zealand. Our goal is simple: to serve riders by working with the very best independent bike shops down under.

We've tried to anticipate questions, and answer them below. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us directly Our growth is exciting, and we're proud to be making this investment and commitment.

What's changing?
Why is this happening?
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What's changing?
The Formal Part: On 10 February 2010, Specialized Bicycle Components announced the opening of Specialized Australia and Specialized New Zealand, and the termination of Sheppard's distribution of Specialized branded products.

Specialized today also announce they have agreed upon all the elements necessary for a smooth transition to ensure continued high level service to dealers and consumers.

Through 31 August 2010, Sheppard will continue to sell current model year Specialized branded product, through independently owned Avanti Plus and Avanti dealers. Effective 1 May 2010, Specialized will commence selling 2011 Model Year product, through many of the same and several additional dealers.

What does this really mean? : Instead of purchasing through Shepards, you will now be able to deal directly with a Specialized team member. They are based in Australia and New Zealand.

Until 31 August 2010, Sheppard will continue to sell current model year Specialized branded product, through independently owned Avanti Plus and Avanti dealers.

Effective 1 May 2010, Specialized will commence selling 2011 Model Year product, through many of the same and several additional dealers.

Why is this happening?
We are coming to the market because we believe in it. We believe that the closer connection between Specialized and the cycling community, this means that together we improve performance. Be it on the road, on the dirt, or the shop floor, performance improvement is at the heart of why we are Specialized. By coming directly to the market we can better leverage our mission to be the brand of choice for discerning riders and the world's best dealers. We have been interested and investing further into the Australian and New Zealand market for years, including increasing marketing and SBCU efforts over the past years. This change will allow us to make these improvements.