Since 2010 Jan Barta has been riding for German pro continental team Bora-Argon 18 which was known as NetApp-Endura in 2014. During this time, the Czech has earned a reputation as a world-class all-rounder. In the future, Barta will form an important part of Ralph Denk’s team as he extended his contract until 2017 in late autumn.

"Of course I had other offers, but I am very happy with the team and management. If you change team, it's always a risk. Here at Bora - Argon 18 I know what I have. The extension of the contract was an easy decision for me," Barta toldadsport-news.com.

Together with his 19 teammates - eight of which are new – the 30-year-old is preparing the 2015 season in Mallorca. "During the winter, we have had a lot of changes to the roster. At this point, I cannot say how strong the new additions are but in any case the team chemistry has been really great," Barta said.

The Czech TT champion has been building form for future goals. "We must work together to fight for our goals," said Barta who doesn’t regard himself as a team leader. "Of course I have been with the team for and have a good connection with the sports directors. But I don’t see myself as captain of the team," he said. “The captain is always the strongest rider in the team and there will be many races where other riders will be stronger."

Barta wants to be in his best condition for the Tour de France for which the team has received a wildcard for the second year in a row. Having finished third in the time trial to Perigueux, the Czech has set his eyes on the opening time trial in Utrecht. "That is one of my big goals for the season," said Barta who will start his season in February at the Vuelta a Murcia.

In addition to the Tour de France, the Bora rider also mentioned the Road World Championships in Richmond as one of his major goals for the season. "In recent years I have always been riding well in the Worlds time trial," said Barta who finished 9th in Ponferrada. "This year I think I have good chances for a good result."

However, the Tour de France and the world championships are still far away. "First of all, I concentrate on the race in the spring, then we'll see," Barta announced.