In the days leading up to the start of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge, everyone's favorite German head-banger cyclist got two pieces of great news. First Voigt, one of the most popular riders in the pro peloton, signed a new contract to ride for the Trek-sponsored WorldTour team next year. Then the 41-year-old got a new bike - a very special custom painted Trek Madone.
One of cycling's most well-known domestiques, Voigt will serve as both leader and mentor to the team's younger riders. The German's resigning also means fans get another year to enjoy the heroic exploits of one of the sport's most popular riders.
Though he's one of the oldest WorldTour pros still competing, the affable German has shown little sign of slowing down, as witnessed in stage 5 of the 2013 Tour of California (which Voigt won) and stage 20 of this year's Tour de France (where he was off the front solo).
"I'm glad Trek and I got to an agreement for 2014. It's been three crazy years for me on Trek, with a lot of highlights, and I'm happy that we can go on for another year," said Voigt. "Looking at the young kids: I see the future. They are ready to spread their wings. But maybe I can close one more gap for them, or teach them something from my years of experience. I feel I still have some gas left in the tank, so I can't wait for what's coming."
Check out this extensive gallery for a look at Voigt's new bike - and look for him at the front of the peloton during this week's USA Pro Cycling Challenge.