Andy Jacques-Maynes leaves with Team Bissell downsize

A revamped Bissell squad will take on the defense of the team’s National Racing Calendar title in 2012. Chris Baldwin, Frank Pipp, Jeremy Vennell and Ben Jacques-Mayneswill lead the team, which adds youngsters Chris Barton and Carter Jones.

“With a smaller and deeper roster, Bissell will be capable of really jelling as a team in 2012,” director Omer Kem said in a release. “Captains Pipp, Baldwin, Vennell, and BJM will be capable of leading the team at any kind of race.”

Bissell will return in 2012 with 11 riders, three fewer than 2011. The biggest surprise omission from the roster is Andy Jacques-Maynes, the twin brother of Ben and recent 24 Hours of Moab winner. The team informed Jacques-Maynes after criterium nationals in August that they would not bring him back for 2012. He was frustrated by the situation on Thursday.

“They didn’t want me back. I was a little chagrined by that,” Jacques-Maynes told VeloNews. “I’m not upset or bitter. It’s a business and I guess it’s what’s right for the team.”

Jacques-Maynes is close to signing a contract for 2012, but could not disclose the team.

2011 Bissell riderJay Thomson signed with UnitedHealthcare late in the season, while Paul Mach will join Kenda-5-hour Energy and Kyle Wamsley will return to Jamis-Sutter Home.

Returning Bissell riders include national criterium champion Eric Young, Chase Pinkham, Andrew Dahlheim, Patrick Bevin and Andy Baker.

Barton joins the team from WorldTour squad BMC Racing. Jones arrives after a season with Trek-Livestrong during which he finished fourth in the U23 nationals time trial and third overall in the Tour de la Guadeloupe.