Vintage bicycles are more than just relics of the past. They carry a history that merges innovation, competition, and craftsmanship. Some of these iconic bikes have fetched astronomical prices at auction, not only for their design but for the legends who rode them. Let’s explore the most expensive vintage bicycles ever sold and the stories behind them.
Eddy Merckx’s 1972 Hour Record Bike
Eddy Merckx’s 1972 Hour Record bike is a piece of cycling history. This bike helped Merckx set a world record for the longest distance ridden in one hour. Sold at auction for a staggering $525,000, it’s one of the most valuable bikes ever. The bike’s minimalist design and lightweight frame showcase the engineering precision of its time. This achievement marked Merckx’s legendary status in cycling history.
Fausto Coppi’s Bianchi Specialissima
Fausto Coppi’s Bianchi Specialissima is another iconic vintage bicycle. Coppi rode this bike to win several races, including the Tour de France. Its elegant steel frame and classic Bianchi color make it highly collectible. At auction, this bike fetched $210,000, a testament to Coppi’s enduring legacy. Collectors treasure its timeless design and historical significance.
Gino Bartali’s 1938 Tour de France Bike
Gino Bartali’s 1938 Tour de France bike is a symbol of early cycling excellence. Bartali rode this bike to victory, marking his first Tour de France win. The bike’s steel frame, crafted by Legnano, was cutting-edge for its time, built to endure the grueling race. Sold at auction for approximately $120,000, it stands as a valuable collector’s piece. Bartali’s triumph with this bike remains a historic moment in cycling.
Masi Gran Criterium
The Masi Gran Criterium is an iconic Italian-made bike renowned for its performance. This model was used by professional cyclists in the 1970s and is known for its smooth handling and classic design. Sold at auction for $90,000, the Gran Criterium remains a favorite among vintage bike collectors. Its sleek lines and performance capabilities have cemented its status as a legendary racing bike.
Francesco Moser’s World Hour Record Bike
Francesco Moser’s World Hour Record bike set a new standard in cycling. Moser rode this custom-built machine to break the world record for distance cycled in one hour in 1984. The bike’s aerodynamic design and lightweight build were revolutionary for the time. At auction, this bike sold for $200,000, making it highly sought after by collectors. Its significance lies in Moser’s technological advancements and his record-breaking feat.
Fausto Coppi’s 1953 Tour de France Bike
Fausto Coppi’s 1953 Tour de France bike is a legendary piece of racing history. Coppi, an Italian cycling icon, rode this bike to his second Tour de France victory. Its classic steel frame, combined with top-tier craftsmanship, exemplifies the technology of the era. Sold for $170,000 at auction, this bike is a coveted item due to Coppi’s unparalleled success and the bike’s historical importance.
Bradley Wiggins’ Pinarello Bolide TT Bike
Bradley Wiggins’ Pinarello Bolide TT bike was designed for speed. Wiggins used this bike during his time-trial victories, including his 2014 Hour Record ride. The bike’s advanced carbon-fiber frame and aerodynamic design make it one of the fastest bikes ever built. At auction, it sold for $250,000, driven by Wiggins’ achievements and the bike’s cutting-edge technology. Its association with a modern-day champion adds to its allure.
Miguel Indurain’s Pinarello Banesto
Miguel Indurain’s Pinarello Banesto represents a golden era in cycling. Indurain rode this bike during his five consecutive Tour de France victories. The Pinarello’s lightweight frame and superior handling made it a favorite among professional cyclists. At auction, it reached $150,000, a testament to Indurain’s dominance and the bike’s impressive performance. Collectors value it for its rich racing legacy.
Bianchi Specialissima “Pantani” Edition
The Bianchi Specialissima “Pantani” Edition is a tribute to Marco Pantani, one of the most iconic cyclists in history. This bike, with its signature celeste color, was built to honor Pantani’s extraordinary career. The carbon frame and cutting-edge technology made it a top-performing racing machine. Sold at auction for $120,000, its value stems from Pantani’s legendary status and the bike’s connection to his memorable victories. This special edition is highly prized by collectors for its rarity and its homage to a cycling great.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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