At Ride 24/7, we love projects that bring cycling history back to life while embracing today’s cutting-edge technology. Our latest custom build does exactly that: the Colnago C64 in the legendary Mapei colourway, paired with Shimano’s flagship Dura-Ace R9270 12-speed Di2 groupset, Dura-Ace C36 wheels, and Vittoria tyres.
This build isn’t just about looks — it’s a respectful nod to one of the most dominant pro teams of the 1990s: Mapei–Colnago.
The History Behind the Colours
The Mapei–Colnago team is remembered not only for its victories but also for its unmistakable multicoloured mosaic kit and bikes. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the team won Classics, Monuments, and World Championships aboard Colnago frames and Shimano components.
Shimano Dura-Ace on Mapei bikes
- 1994–1995 → Colnago Master & Bititan frames fitted with Dura-Ace 7402/7410.
- 1996 → The iconic Colnago C40 Mk1 conquered Paris-Roubaix with Dura-Ace 7700.
- 2001–2002 → Riders raced with the special Dura-Ace 25th Anniversary Edition.
Paired with Vittoria tubular tyres and classic Ambrosio rims, these setups became part of cycling history.
A Modern Interpretation
For this custom build, we wanted to capture that heritage while giving the customer the ultimate modern performance package. After much debate between Campagnolo vs Shimano, we decided to honour the Mapei connection by going with Shimano. This frameset was also the last model in the Colnago range to feature the signature of Ernesto Colnago.
This bike features:
- Colnago C64 frameset in the Mapei colourway
- Shimano Dura-Ace R9270 Di2 12-speed groupset with C-Bear Ceramic T45 Bottom Bracket
- Fizik Aliante Saddle
- Shimano Dura-Ace C36 carbon wheels
- Vittoria tyres — just like the team raced in the ’90s and early 2000s but instead of Tubulars we selected Vittoria Corsa N.EXT 700x28 tyres with latex inner tubes.
- Finished with Blue “BBB” Handlebar tape for the perfect colour match and the final touch to the build which was also used by the Mapei Pro Cycling Team
The result? A bike that blends retro style with modern performance — fast, precise, and steeped in cycling history.
Why This Build Matters
For riders and collectors, this Colnago C64 Mapei edition is more than just a bicycle. It’s:
- A tribute to one of the greatest pro cycling teams ever.
- A showcase of how modern technology (Di2, carbon wheels, disc brakes) can live in harmony with classic style.
- A reminder that the soul of cycling’s golden era still inspires today’s best builds.
Build Your Own Dream Bike
At Ride 24/7, we specialise in custom road bike builds tailored to your vision — whether you’re chasing performance, heritage, or a little of both.
📸 Check out the photos of this stunning Colnago C64 Mapei below, and if you’re ready to start your own dream project, get in touch with us today.
