EDDY MERCKX:THE MAN WHO ATE MEN
Here is a quick story about the man himself.
Eddy Merckx, born on June 17, 1945, in Meensel-Kingdonk, Belgium, is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional cyclists of all time. Known as "The Cannibal," he dominated the sport in the 1960s and 1970s, winning an unprecedented number of races. Merckx's career achievements include five Tour de France victories, five Giro d'Italia titles, and three World Championships.
His remarkable versatility allowed him to excel in various types of races, including stage races, one-day classics, and time trials. Merckx was known for his aggressive racing style, incredible stamina, and the ability to climb steep mountains, which contributed to his legendary status.
Merckx's career was not without controversy; he was involved in discussions about doping in cycling. Nevertheless, his impact on the sport continues to be felt today, and he remains a beloved figure in cycling history. After retiring from professional cycling in 1978, Merckx has remained active in the cycling community as a brand ambassador and involved in various cycling-related ventures.
Sometimes we get spoiled, at The Polka Dot Jersey, and we get to have two different versions of the same very cool bike in the shop, at the same time (OK, one is Jaime's). This is one of those times.
A 1989 Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra 7/11 (completely original) and a 1992 Eddy Merckx Corsa Motorola (mostly original) have found their way into our shop for two very different reasons.
These two iconic 80's/90's racing machines are identical bikes except for the tubing they use. The Corsa Extra uses Columbus SLX tubing, while the Corsa uses slightly heavier Columbus SL tubes. We will be overhauling and preserving the originality of the Campagnolo Record 8spd Ergo build on the Corsa Extra 7/11. BUT, you'll have to stay tuned to see what we are planning for the Corsa Motorola.....restomod?
Eddy Merckx Motorola represents a notable chapter in cycling history, particularly during the late 1980s and early 1990s. This team was a continuation of Merckx’s legacy in competitive cycling and highlighted the impact of his brand in the sport.
Founded in 1989, the Motorola cycling team was sponsored by the telecommunications giant Motorola and became a prominent force within the professional cycling scene. The team's identity was closely linked to the legendary Belgian cyclist Eddy Merckx, often regarded as one of the greatest cyclists of all time due to his exceptional achievements, including five Tour de France victories and numerous other prestigious races.
The team featured a roster of talented riders, including big names like Greg LeMond, who won the Tour de France in 1989 and 1990, and the young up-and-comer, Lance Armstrong. Under the guidance of director sportif, the team adopted a systematic approach to training and racing, emphasizing not only physical prowess but also technology and teamwork.
The signature black, white, and red jerseys donned by the riders became iconic, symbolizing both the brand of Motorola as well as the aggressive racing spirit that characterized the team. Riders on the team were known for their climbing and time-trialing abilities, often pushing the limits of what was possible in the sport. Their competitive edge was enhanced by technological innovations in bicycle design and equipment, aligning with Motorola's reputation for advancement in telecommunications.
Eddy Merckx Motorola played a pivotal role in shaping modern professional cycling, contributing to the sport's evolution through its embrace of technology, rigorous training regimens, and a strong team dynamic. The legacy of this team continues to influence cyclists today, inspiring a sense of community and competition that is central to the world of cycling.
Note: You can ID the year of your Merckx by finding the initial letter on the serial number under the bottom bracket.
E - 1981-1984
Z - 1984-198
A - 1986-1988
B - 1988-1990
C - 1990-1991
D - 1992-1993
F - 1994-1995
G - 1996-1998
H - 1998-2000
J - 2001-2002
K - 2002-2004
L - 2004-2006
P - 2006-2008
