Erik Zabel would like to pass on his experience and give something back to the sport. Therefore he's passionately involved in the Canyon initiative "Young Heroes", which gives talented young riders the chance to ride their season with pro standard material. Erik knows only too well just how strenuous and cost intensive a long racing season can be. Travel to the events, entry fees, clothing, wear and tear parts to name just a few.

As there is no media presence at the youth races, there is little money from sponsors and talented young riders really need dynamic support. Therefore every Canyon Young Hero receives a first class equipped carbon road bike and professional team support for a minimum of one year.

During his 15 years as a pro Erik has seen many talented riders and estimates that some of the Young Heroes could potentially put themselves into the limelight in the future. "If the boys and girls keep training as hard as they have been doing, then we'll be seeing a lot more of them in the future. There are a few big talents maturing here who could enrich the European cycling scene", explains Erik on the occasion of the kick-off meeting.