Salt Lake City — Two of the top cyclists in U.S. history will join Rock Racing Team Owner Michael Ball at a free autograph signing this weekend at Utah’s premier bicycle shop, Contender Bicycles.

Olympic time trial gold medalist and Tour de France stage winner Tyler Hamilton and three-time U.S. national road race champion Fred Rodriguez headline Saturday’s 5:30-6:30 p.m. event at the Salt Lake City shop. The special appearance by the Rock Racing trio coincides with the team’s participation in the Larry H. Miller Tour of Utah.

Rock Racing has rapidly redefined pro cycling through its eye-catching uniforms, outspoken style and impressive race results. Hamilton was the overall champion of the Tour of Qinghai Lake in China last month and the team will participate in the Tour of Britain and Tour of Missouri in September. Earlier this year, the squad was voted the most popular cycling team in an on-line fan poll by Bicycling Magazine.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for us to meet some of the most passionate cyclists in the country,” Ball said. “Cycling fans in Utah are active riders themselves, so it made sense to have an event at one of the best bike shops in the state.”

Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase official Rock Racing merchandise at the event, as well as take photos in front of the team’s lime green-and-black, skull-logoed Cadillac Escalades and motor coach.

Contender Bicycles was named the 2007 “Best Pro Shop” in the United States by a leading cycling industry magazine. The store is located at 875 East 900 South.

— RRC—