Following a landmark investment by Chinese bicycle manufacturer XDS, Astana has officially changed its name to XDS Astana Team.
The move marks China’s bicycle market leader Xidesheng entering the global stage with its high-performance X-LAB brand, allowing the team and company to achieve greater success in the field of cycling. world tour.
The rebrand marks a new era for the team. Drivers will compete in the new X-LAB AD9, which is the flagship model of XDS for the 2025 season. While details on the AD9’s aerodynamic credentials are scant, we do know it has all the hallmarks of modern aerodynamics racing bike: Dropped seatstays, a hollow seat tube, deep-section aero tubes and a stylish integrated cockpit. The design echoes the aesthetics of its WorldTour counterparts, promising to be both fast and functional.
Interestingly, the team won’t be starting from scratch when it comes to equipment. Shimano Dura-Ace groupset, Vision Metron wheels and Continental tires will continue to be used, ensuring transition challenges for riders are minimized. This continuity is a smart move, as any overhaul that’s too big could derail early-season performances. The distinctive light blue jersey that is synonymous with Astana has also been retained, providing a visual link to the team’s glorious past.
The AD9 has already piqued the curiosity of the cycling world. Competitively priced compared to other WorldTour teams’ superbikes, it could shake up not just the professional world, but the consumer market as well. Currently, the AD9 sits in a range of products including the AD7, which surprisingly costs around £2,500 ($3,150). The XDS seems poised to challenge the notion that cutting-edge race bikes have to break the bank.
While the launch event in Shenzhen was filled with dazzling promotional videos and new kits, there’s more at stake here than just aesthetics and sponsorship logos. XDS’s investment reflects a wider ambition to establish itself as a global cycling powerhouse. This is a strategic move to capitalize on its reputation in Asia, its growing influence in Europe and now the opportunity to establish itself on the professional scene through Astana.
Time will tell if XDS Astana’s new chapter will come to fruition on the road, but one thing is clear: XDS is not about safety. By working with a team steeped in tradition, equipping riders with state-of-the-art technology, and demonstrating their intent to challenge market norms, XDS has positioned themselves as a brand to watch—not just in China, but around the world.
For Astana, this represents an opportunity to evolve with the changing dynamics of the sport while retaining its DNA. What about fans? It’s a chance to see if a bold new partnership can turn ambition into victory.
