There’s always a lively argument about who the greatest cyclist of all time is.
The astonishing palmares of Eddy Merckx will never be beaten. Some will argue for Tadej Pogačar, still only halfway through his career and already chasing Merckx’s legacy. Others will point to Kelly as the greatest all-rounder, Hinault for his domineering will-to-win, or Beryl Burton for sheer natural talent and grit.
But when it comes to the most stylish cyclist of all time? No debate.
That title belongs to Fausto Coppi.
Coppi dominated racing in the 40s and 50s. He won five Giros, two Tours, a world title, and just about everything else. But it wasn’t just the wins. It was the way he rode — smooth, elegant, effortless. Poetry in motion disguising awesome power and effort.
So much of our perceived wisdom about what defines the aesthetics of beauty in cycling - Italian style, Italian bikes, body position, souplesse, a sense of élan - all stem from Fausto and his era. Sunglasses, not goggles. Derailleur gears, not fixed. Close-fitting, colour blocked silk or wool jerseys, not the thick sweaters of the early pioneers. Gossamer weight and gleaming chrome. Panache.
He was known as Il Airone — The Heron — for his long legs and the way he seemed to float above the road. That’s why there’s a heron on every Handmade Cyclist product.
We call him Fausto. A quiet nod to cycling’s past — but always looking to the future.
Wherever you see our Fausto heron you’ll find the things we care about most:
Wherever you see our Fausto heron you’ll find the things we care about most:
Style. Story. Craft. And a deep love for this beautiful sport.
New for 2025, we've launched our first range of Fausto tees and sweats. Simple, understated, premium quality off-bike apparel in core colours: black, white and India Ink blue.
Dress them up. Dress them down. These garments are functional, beautiful and built to last. We've road-tested them for durability, washing them dozens of times. They keep their shape and keep their colour, so you'll look better for longer, while the beautifully minimal approach is reflected in the price, too.
Each product features subtle Handmade hip label branding and an embroidered Fausto chest logo, and that's it. As simply stylish as Fausto himself.
Welcome to the club.
See the collection
Welcome to the club.
See the collection
