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.
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.
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.