Bianchi the history comes alive at Thame Cycles

• Posted on 7 July 2025
• By Jeremy Crook
• 0

Whether you're a seasoned racer or new to cycling, riding a Bianchi is more than just pedalling—it’s becoming part of cycling history. Pop into Thame Cycles to experience the blend of tradition, performance, and pure Italian flair that only Bianchi can deliver.

Bianchi A Heritage Forged in Innovation (Since 1885)

In 1885, 21-year-old Edoardo Bianchi opened a modest workshop in Milan and set out to revolutionise the bicycle. By adopting equal-sized pneumatic tyres—a new idea at the time—and pioneering safer, chain-driven designs, he helped transform the “boneshaker” into today’s modern bicycle.

From those early days, Bianchi quickly became synonymous with speed and quality. In 1888, Edoardo introduced pneumatic tyres in collaboration with pioneers like Dunlop and Pirelli . Just over a decade later, Bianchi bikes were at the top of international racing, with Giovanni Tommaselli winning the 1899 Grand Prix de Paris aboard one.

The World’s Oldest Bicycle Manufacturer

Today, Bianchi stands proudly as the oldest bicycle manufacturer still in existence, operating uninterrupted since its inception. While other founders came and went, Bianchi built and sustained an empire based on quality, innovation, and aesthetics.

They moved production to Treviglio in 2021 and even opened a factory museum, further cementing their legacy.

The Iconic Celeste – A Signature Shade

Perhaps no colour is more instantly recognizable in cycling than Bianchi’s signature celeste—a sky-turquoise hue introduced around 1913. Worn by champions like Fausto Coppi, Marco Pantani, and Mario Cipollini, celeste isn’t just paint—it’s a symbol of excellence and passion on two wheels.

Racing Pedigree & Innovation

From the early Grande Premsi to modern Grand Tours, Bianchi has dominated—and innovated—in elite cycling. Edoardo’s “Reparto Corse” (racing division) began in the 1890s, using races as laboratories for technological advancement.

Some career landmarks:

• Giovanni Tommaselli – 1899 track world champion

• Fausto Coppi – Giro/Tour winner, embodied Bianchi’s golden era

• Marco Pantani – Precision obsessed, Bianchi tweaked geometries to his exacting needs

Over the decades, Bianchi’s racing successes fueled production, pushing frame design, materials, and componentry forward in cycling.

Quality Components & Italian Craftsmanship

Another decisive factor behind Bianchi’s reputation is its partnership with Campagnolo, Italy’s legendary groupset maker since the 1930s. Vintage Bianchi bikes often featured Campagnolo Super Record or Gran Sport kit—favoured by champions like Coppi and Pantani.

Today, high-end Bianchi models still reflect this commitment to top-tier materials, engineering, and Italian artistry.

Bianchi at Thame Cycles

At Thame Cycles, we’re proud to feature Bianchi’s latest range alongside their classic heritage models. Whether you’re chasing KOMs on the Specialissima, mastering aero speed with the Oltre RC, gravel adventures on the Impulso, or commuting in style on the new e-bikes—every Bianchi carries that unmistakable mix of beauty, engineering, and history.

And of course, all draped in that iconic celeste, honouring over 140 years of legacy.

Why We Love Bianchi

• Unbroken lineage: A legacy back to 1885, unbroken & globally influential

• Racing DNA: Founded on racing, continually refined in competition

• Celeste icon: Instantly recognisable, deeply symbolic 

• Italian craftsmanship: Handmade artistry with top components & engineering

Join the Celeste Legacy

Whether you're a seasoned racer or new to cycling, riding a Bianchi is more than just pedalling—it’s becoming part of cycling history. Pop into Thame Cycles to experience the blend of tradition, performance, and pure Italian flair that only Bianchi can deliver.

Stay tuned for more detailed model reviews, maintenance tips, and owner stories from the celeste community!