Velo City: Bicycle Culture and City Life

Colnago Saronni

Colnago Saronni

Ernesto Colnago‘s bikes have carried numerous champions to victory over the years, but there are a few standout stars: Motta, Magni and Merckx, to name a few — not to mention Sven Nys, winner of this week’s Cyclocross World Champs. Ernesto emblazoned Eddy Merckx’ name on the downtube for his 1971 Milano-Sanremo victory, a marketing move he bestowed upon another golden child, Giuseppe ‘Beppe’ Saronni. This example was magnificently restored by Eroica Cicli.

Colnago Saronni
Colnago Saronni

Eroica Cicli are two passionate and well-connected gentlemen who have an uncanny knack of procuring a wide selection of rare, obscure, vintage or NOS parts and complete bikes — all Italian, of course. They specialize in the restoration of classic racing machines and relished the challenge of sourcing these pantographed, period-specific parts. The forks, stem, chain ring, seat post and shifters, even the saddle, bears the name of Saronni.

Colnago Saronni
Colnago Saronni

The Columbus-tubed frame is predominantly graced with Campagnolo’s Super Record group, with a splash of Record at the hubs and bottom bracket. It’s all-Italian, too: Martano rims, 3ttt cockpit and Vittoria tires. Yes, the frame is in top condition for its age: Eroica Cicli had it repainted and rechromed. The best news is that it’s for sale: head to their website for more detail shots and pricing. You can also pick up some NOS Silva bar tape and matching toe straps for your own retro build.

Colnago Saronni
Colnago Saronni