The C series was launched in 1989 by Ernesto Colnago together with sports car manufacturer Ferrari. Models such as the C35 or the C40 have made cycling history. The current version of the C68, which TOUR has tested extensivelyhas now been given a very special paint finish by Japanese designer Motoki Yoshio.
Colnago's racing bikes have always been distinctive thanks to their colour coordination. Yoshio's interpretation is intended to combine Retinato, a kind of grid pattern texture, Art Decor and cold colours.
Colnago C68 special edition: Two key concepts in design
The Japanese first analysed the geometry of the frame and the joints between the individual parts. He arranged the colours along the lines of these joints. His design of the Colnago C68 always focussed on the key concepts of respect and harmony. He had respect for the tradition and quality of the C series and with harmony he wanted to emphasise the parts that make up the frame.
"Harmony also means pleasure and balance. Exactly what I want to feel when riding this bike. When cycling is in perfect harmony with the environment, you have a unique experience on the bike. In the same way, a design becomes unique when it is in perfect harmony with the product," explains Yoshio.
The Motoki Yoshio x Colnago in video
The newly designed Colnago C68 is first and foremost a collector's item. Although the racing bike is of course ready to ride. The equipment includes a classy Campagnolo Super-Record EPS 2x12 groupset, Campagnolo Bora Ultra WTO 45 wheels, a Selle Italia SLR Flow carbon saddle and Pirelli PZero Race tyres - all components from Italian manufacturers.
Features of the special edition of the Colnago C68
- Frame: Colango C68 - Road full carbon
- Handlebars: Colnago CC.01 integrated
- groupset: Campagnolo SuperRecord EPS 2x12
- Wheels: Campagnolo Bora Ultra WTO 45
- Tyres: Pirelli PZero Race
- Handlebar tape: Colnago Grip black
- Bottle cage: Colnago Carbon
The Colnago company was founded in 1954 by Ernesto Colnago in Cambiago, near Milan. Olympic gold medals, world championships, Grand Tours and classics have been won on Colnago bikes. In 2020, the majority of Colnago's shares were sold to Chimera Investments LLC, an investment fund based in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.
