New Zealand's most successful professional cyclist, Dean, 41, was a race professional between 1999 and 2013 and at the peak of his career was considered the best lead out rider in the world.
Auckland hosted this year's Legends of Cycling Dinner in January and English commentator and "the voice of cycling" Phil Liggett labelled it as "something long overdue for New Zealand that exceeded everyone's expectations".
"It brought the sport and pastime together to celebrate its achievements. So many great Kiwi riders have passed into history unnoticed; it was an outstanding night that celebrated all things cycling."
One of the greatest cyclists of all time, American Greg Lamont, joined Liggett and Dean as the guest speakers at the dinner which was the highest profile gathering of international cyclists seen in New Zealand.
Organiser of the dinner, John McKenzie from enthuse media & events, said he was looking forward to running the event in Napier and believed it would be a great way to cap off the elite nationals.
"Napier has been really enthusiastic and supportive about the event and having it on the last night of the nationals makes good sense," McKenzie said.
"It will once again be a real celebration of all things cycling and Robbie is really looking forward to coming and being part of it."
The January 8 dinner at Church Road Winery will feature impressive audio visual presentations and McKenzie promised a few surprises.
"We worked really hard to provide something unique that was not only entertaining but inspiring as well this year," he recalled.
"Julian was just fantastic in Auckland so to have him back for Napier is great. Robbie's track record speaks for itself and he is proving to be a good television commentator as well so the banter and storytelling on the night will be great."
McEwen said he was looking forward to experiencing the Hawke's Bay region which includes tremendous scenery, rides and wineries.
"The legends dinner will celebrate cycling and will be a fantastic way to cap off a week of racing where New Zealand's elite riders all go head-to-head for national titles."
"It will be my first visit to the Bay after having visited Wellington, Auckland and Taupo previously. I can't wait to take it all in and enjoy the riding and socialising," McEwen added.