Cycling’s Forgotten Teams: Reliving the Flair of Underdog Squads

In the grand theater of professional cycling, it’s often the juggernauts—the likes of La Vie Claire, Team Sky, or Jumbo-Visma—that dominate the spotlight. But behind the glare of yellow jerseys and podium sweeps lies a rich tapestry of teams whose impact transcended victories.

These are the forgotten squads, the underdog collectives who brought color, charisma, and cult followings to the sport. Today, we ride back through time to honor these unsung heroes and the vintage kits that keep their legacies alive.

Kelme: The Green Machine

A Spanish team known for its audacious breakaways and pure climbing prowess, Kelme was the proving ground for talents like Fernando Escartín and Roberto Heras. Their iconic green and white kits screamed individuality, worn with grit on the slopes of the Pyrenees. Kelme never had the biggest budget, but they raced with their hearts—and their kit remains a prized possession for collectors.

ONCE: Chessboard Rebels

Decked in striking yellow and black checkerboard designs, ONCE looked more like a punk rock band than a pro cycling team. Yet, under the leadership of Manolo Saiz, they became one of the most tactically intelligent squads of the 90s. Riders like Laurent Jalabert and Alex Züle brought them to global attention. While the team eventually dissolved, the ONCE jersey remains one of the boldest ever produced.

PDM: Monochrome Elegance

Dutch and minimalist, PDM-Concorde’s black-and-white kit was the very definition of cool in the late 80s. Known for their clean lines and powerful riders like Sean Kelly and Erik Breukink, the team was a dark horse in every Grand Tour they entered. Today, their understated jersey is a fan favorite among retro enthusiasts for its timeless design.

Café de Colombia: Altitude Ambassadors

Before Colombian riders became Tour de France staples, Café de Colombia brought high-altitude grit to European roads. The team gave riders like Lucho Herrera a stage to shine, proudly displaying the bright colors of Colombia. Their jersey—a mosaic of blue, white, and red coffee motifs—symbolized a proud and rising nation on two wheels.

Panasonic: Power and Precision

Panasonic was never the loudest team, but their performance spoke volumes. Dressed in their sleek navy-blue kits with red and white accents, the Dutch team merged technological innovation with racing excellence. Riders like Erik Vanderaerden and Phil Anderson made them a fixture in the Classics.

Why These Kits Matter

Each of these teams may have faded from the start list, but their jerseys endure as symbols of a daring era in cycling. Owning or wearing one is more than a fashion statement; it’s a badge of appreciation for the road less traveled. These forgotten squads remind us that greatness isn’t only measured by wins but by the stories you leave behind.

At PullingTurns.com, we celebrate these icons of cycling history. Whether you’re a diehard collector or just discovering the beauty of vintage kits, these jerseys offer a chance to relive the flair, rebellion, and romance of cycling’s underdog era.

Explore our full range of vintage cycling jerseys and keep the legacy alive.