The 2025 UCI Downhill World Cup season kicked off with a fresh dose of speed, style, and determination as Continental Atherton Racing rolled into the steep, technical terrain of Bielsko-Biała, Poland. This was the first true proving ground for the team’s Gates belt-driven A.200.G bikes, fully kitted with Hayes Dominion A4 brakes, and piloted by a trio of riders looking to make an early mark on the standings.

A New Era, Rooted in Progression
With World Champion Charlie Hatton leading the charge, Continental Atherton entered Poland with a perfect mix of experience and youthful energy. 18-year-old Luke Wayman took his first steps into the Elite Men’s field, while fellow teen George Madley continued his development as a second-year Junior. And although Elite Women’s racer Elise Empey was sidelined with injury, her return is highly anticipated in the coming rounds.
From the outset, the pits were buzzing. Team Manager Tom Lloyd, along with mechanics Ben Lovell, Johann Jenkinson, and Howard Stuttard, had the fleet running dialed. With Hayes Dominion A4 brakes at every cockpit, confidence was high heading into track walk.
“We’ve spent the winter building up the A.200.G and getting the boys up to speed. It’s been full-on, but the vibe is strong and the team is clicking,” said Lloyd. “And knowing they’re all equipped with Dominion A4s gives us peace of mind—they’re racing hard, and those brakes never flinch.”

The Track: Fast, Wild, and Unforgiving
Bielsko-Biała’s course is as much a character in the race as the riders themselves. This year, with weather more cooperative than in 2024, conditions allowed for full-speed commitment. But the woodwork, big jumps, and deep braking bumps still demanded precision and guts.
This is where Hayes Dominion brakes made a difference. The steep entries, loose exits, and high-speed compressions offered no margin for error—but Dominion’s intuitive modulation, powerful bite, and class-leading consistency delivered lap after lap.
“The braking zones were already rough by practice, but I never once had to think about lever feel or fade,” said Charlie Hatton. “Dominion A4s are just that reliable. And when the track gets blown out, that confidence really counts.”

Building the Future, Backed by Proven Hardware
Atherton Racing’s mission has always been about more than just wins—it’s about progression, purpose, and potential. The partnership with Hayes underscores that philosophy. Whether it’s Charlie Hatton pushing for another World Championship, or Luke and George finding their rhythm on the world stage, every rider depends on the confidence their brakes deliver.
The Dominion A4 isn’t just race-proven—it’s racer-beloved. With tool-free reach and bite adjustment, unparalleled lever feel, and fade-free power, it’s the weapon of choice for riders who demand the most from every descent.

What’s Next?
The team heads next to Loudenvielle, where high alpine terrain and dusty conditions await. With a top-10 finish under his belt there last year, Charlie is keen to improve. Elise is eyeing a return for La Thuile, and the entire squad is steadily building steam.
As the 2025 World Cup season picks up speed, one thing is certain: the Continental Atherton team is braking later, pushing harder, and rising faster—all with Hayes at their side.

Hayes Brakes. Trusted by World Champions. Ready for Yours.