Biography
Over the past decade, Bauer (who bears the name of the fictional hero of TV show 24) has become one of the most respected Kiwi cyclists on the professional circuit, regularly featuring near the head of grand tours.

He began his career as a mountain biker and earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education at Otago University.

Racing for Endura Racing, Bauer won the 2010 national road race title and two years later, signed with Garmin-Barracuda.

In recent years, he has really captured the NZ public imagination during the world’s most iconic race - the Tour de France. In 2013, his tour debut ended when he left the road at high speed and ploughed through a wire fence, suffering horrific facial injuries.

The following year, he broke away on the 222km 15thstage, only to be run down by the peleton metres from victory. In 2015, his tour ended on stage five, after he broke his hip in a crash.

Last year, racing for Quick-Step Floors, Bauer was punched by fiery Frenchman Nacer Bouhanni, while trying to guide teammate Marcel Kittel to the front of the bunch sprint. Bouhanni was subsequently fined NZ$280 and penalised a minute on the overall standings.

He has raced at two previous Commonwealth Games, finishing eighth in the time trial and 10th in the road at Delhi 2010, and winning a road race silver medal at Glasgow four years ago.

He has been released by his professional team to lead the NZ cycling contingent on the Gold Coast.