Originally Posted by ZappCatt
I actually am not sure. I would imagine that the Track Racers would have a lot more flexibility then the roadies. The geometry of track bikes amongst the different events are so drastically different, and not all companies produce World Class level designs for each disipline.
Actually though, I think you may be on to something there. The Olympic team used to be fielded by the top US amateurs over 10 years ago. Then in 92, they opened it up to pros. Nowadays, with the contracts that a lot of pros are on, it mandates that they have to use their bike in all competitions. So, either that occurs or they have the flexibility to choose. I tend to think it is the latter. In any case, I think it's more of an issue of when sponsorship agreements agreements collide. Ex: those of a trade team and those of the national team. And perhaps the wording is more clear in each of the rider's contracts as to what equipment they can use in certain international events.
btw, nice bike in the avatar, you should post a pic of it