Rapha have released a new collection of kit honouring the climbing greats of Colombia, with a special edition range marking the 30th anniversary of Lucho Herrera's win at the 1987 Vuelta a España.
Herrera's win was the country's first grand tour win and marked the beginning of a long period of Colombian grand tour success (he also took the King of the Mountains competition). Since the 80s the 'escarabajos' (beetles - the collective nickname given to Colombian riders, after the riding style of Ramón Hoyos, the first Colombian to earn international acclaim in the fifties), have been a prominent force at the head of the European peloton.
Accompanying the launch Rapha have released a short film on Colombian cycle racing. Featuring an interview with the mother of Colombian pro rider Esteban Chaves, the 20-minute film touches on some sensitive issues surrounding the sport. The film is called Abrazos and you can watch it on rapha.cc.
The Rapha Colombia collection takes its inspiration from the era of Herrera's win with 80s design influences. Products feature a repeated escarabajos print, while patches and typefaces reference the 1987 Vuelta which proved so pivotal in Colombia's fortunes.
The range comprises seven products: a KoM jersey, a Pro Team midweight jersey, matching cap, socks, Pro Team bibs, mitts and a t-shirt.
Coincidentally, Sportive.com publisher Joe has just returned from a trip to Colombia. If you're planning a visit yourself, be sure to check out his tips on the best cycling shops in Medellin and advice on hiring a road bike while you're there (in short: bring your own).
Rapha Travel are also launching a new cycling trip to Colombia with three dates starting in January 2018. For more info and to book, visit www.rapha.cc.
The Rapha Colombia collection is available to buy now at rapha.cc.
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