There are very few occasions where you can brush shoulders with the likes of Eddie Merckx, Fabian Cancellara and David Millar in the course of one evening - but that was the proposition on offer at the recent Rouleur Classic event.
The Rouleur Classic was billed as "the world's finest cycling exhibition", and the inaugural event, at Vinopolis in Southwark, might even have lived up to this bold title. As you entered you were immediately offered a glass of champagne - oh, and is that Ernesto Colnago passing you at the cloakroom? Yes, quite possibly.
The Rouleur Classic took place over four sessions, or "stages": Thursday evening, a Friday matinee followed by an evening session, and a final stage on Saturday. Ticket prices ranging from £50 to £200 for the different sessions.
Vinopolis made a fine setting for the event. A vast venue spread over 2.5 acres beneath the arches of an old Victorian viaduct, the exhibition took place in an area dedicated to corporate functions. Most of the available floor space was taken up with booths and demonstrations from some of the industry's most sought-after brands. The likes of Pinarello, Edco wheels, Assos and Castelli were all out in force offering personal demonstrations of their finest products.
While many of these brands also turn up for much less expensive bike shows, the exclusive atmosphere and delicious canapes at the Rouleur Classic certainly made the experience very enjoyable. A pleasant atmosphere permeated the entire evening.
The biggest pull of the Rouleur Classic however, was the iconic list of speakers that were lined up for each of the four sessions over the three days. Thursday evening had by far the best lineup (and also the most lofty ticket price at £200 on the door). Alberto Contador, Fabian Cancellara, Ernesto Colnago and the Cannibal himself, Eddie Merckx all spoke for around 30 minutes.
Seeing the past and present greats of the sport sit down with Ned Boulting for a chat certainly made it a night to remember. Yes, a lineup of this calibre comes at a price. There's no denying that the event pricing made it an expensive proposition for the average cyclist - some of whom would, perhaps, rather spend that money on their bike.
But for many cycling fans, and those in love with the culture and history of the sport, it will be a price worth paying. If that sounds like you, then the Rouleur Classic is definitely an event to look out for next year.
0 Comments