Cédric's Italian racer
Cédric has been riding the winding roads around Nice on a carbon bike for several years. He contacted us to design a bike for him, equipped with a modern transmission and braking system. During our discussions, the description of his dream bike gradually evolved into a more timeless configuration, as fast as ever, but with a decidedly transalpine feel. Together we built Victoire n°563, a truly beautiful Italian machine.
Initially, Cedric suggested an electronic groupset and disc brakes. Although technically more efficient, this configuration is not always adapted to the cyclist's real needs. That's why we take the time to discuss, suggest and reflect with our customers, to look beyond any marketing or current fashion considerations.
Ordering a Victoire bike is not a simple purchase, but a journey that, like any cycling trip, can take a little time to complete.
Cédric wanted a stainless steel bike. For this exceptional machine, we used a rare set of Colombus XCr tubes from the limited series produced for our 10th anniversary. This series follows in the footsteps of the Cento series, designed for cyclosportive use. Colombus only produced 10 sets of tubes, for as many Victoire bikes that left our workshops: Cédric's machine is even more unique!
The logo combining the Victoire and Colombus symbols was affixed above our cartouche. We also chose to leave part of the metal visible, a possibility offered by stainless steel which highlights the work of our framers. Marc created this magnificent frame.
The configuration element that evolved the most between Cédric's first contact and bike delivery was the groupset. No electronic transmission or hydraulic disc brake: we opted for the rim brake version of Campagnolo's Super Record groupset. This is the Italian brand's top-of-the-range drivetrain, and it deserves its place at the top of the groupset hierarchy: lightweight, high-performance, and with inimitable ergonomics.
Choosing rim brakes for a high-performance machine is not a posture but a real choice. Lighter, easier to maintain, and just as effective in dry weather as disc brakes.
They also add an aesthetic touch by echoing the main color of the frame with red pads. Understated, but terribly chic.
To finalize this race configuration, we fitted Campagnolo Bora WTO wheels. Light and efficient, they perfectly complement the Italian groupset and tubes. Cédric's bike is a truly beautiful Italian machine, and the color was an obvious choice.
The rosso corsa red is reminiscent of a famous transalpine car brand, and it's perfect for Cédric's bike. The Italian border is only a few kilometers from his home, and everyone knows that red bikes are faster!
The natural color of the steel blends perfectly with this bright red, so we kept the frame bare on the rear half of the bike.
In the description of some Victoire bikes, I'd read the term “flying carpet” to describe the feel of the handlebars: that's exactly what it is. It's so much the case that on descents it's almost disconcerting, and at high speeds the absorption of road imperfections is very noticeable, so I'm still getting used to it. I'm rediscovering my roads from a new angle, which is really great. And it looks really good too! The groupset is magnificent and the wheels are perfect (the braking is nothing like what I had, it's phenomenal!). The tires are top-notch, very supple and with good grip, and we were right to choose 25mm tires, a “generous” 25mm compared to my old bike. And the new version of the saddle is ideal, zero pain, so much the better as the old version was no longer available for sale. It's a superb bike. The wait made me apprehensive, but it's perfect. It took me a few days to get used to the idea that it was my bike. Thanks again to the team.
A few weeks after his first e-mail, Cédric did us the honor of coming back to complete his first impressions.
I had described a puzzling sensation in my previous e-mail: going downhill at high speed, the absorption of road imperfections made me feel less connected to the road. But this is not the case. I no longer have to jump over certain obstacles, or even “relieve” (pull up) the bike. In the end, I'm even more connected with the road. Then the position: I can't help comparing the Victoire with my previous bike. On paper, there weren't many differences: 5 mm shorter, 8 mm higher. But on the handlebars, it changes everything. A superior feeling of control, then a much better comfort. Compared with my carbon bike, I feel as if the bike is rolling with me, that we're pedaling together. For the time being, I'm content with my usual outings, but I have the feeling that I could double the distance without pain or fatigue, something I'd never thought possible before. Then again, it's particularly pleasant to ride such a machine. The overall look is perfect, and I don't regret any of the choices we made (thanks again for the advice). And the rosso corsa red is sublime. It's a well-known fact that red bikes go faster! You chose the tubes in front of me when we visited the workshop, and now when we look at the finished product... For me, it's a bit like magic what you're doing.
