The Heroic Guide: Preparing Your Equipment for L’Eroica

Participating in L’Eroica in Siena, or any of its global chapters, is a rite of passage for cycling purists. To ride the “White Roads” (Strade Bianche), you must embrace the spirit of the past. However, the rules for “Bici Eroiche” (Heroic Bikes) are strict.

If you are preparing for the dust and glory of Tuscany, here is how to ensure your equipment and apparel are up to the challenge.

1. The Bike: Rules of the Road

To be officially recognized at L’Eroica, your bicycle must be a “vintage” model, generally meaning it was built before 1987. Key requirements include:

• Steel Frame: Most events require a lugged steel frame (though some rare aluminum frames like ALAN or Vitus are often permitted).
• Downtube Shifters: No integrated brake/shift levers (STI/Ergo). Your shifters must be on the downtube.
• External Brake Cables: The cables must exit the top of the brake levers and “loop” over the handlebars.
• Pedals with Toe Clips: Modern clipless pedals are a no-go. You’ll need classic pedals with leather straps and cages.

2. The Apparel: Style Meets Function

While the bike must be old, your clothing doesn’t have to be itchy wool. Modern reproductions allow you to look the part while staying comfortable.

• The Jersey: Traditional aesthetics are mandatory. Our Short Sleeve Eroica Jersey uses COOLMAX technology, giving you the classic 1970s look without the heavy, damp feel of vintage wool.
• The Shorts: Look for black bib shorts with a clean, understated design. The L’Alpe d’Huez Bib Shorts offer the necessary 3D Gel padding for the bumpy, unpaved sectors of the Sienese hills.
• The Headwear: A classic “casquette” is essential for keeping the Tuscan sun and dust out of your eyes. Our King of the Mountains Cap or a team-specific cap like the Mercatone Uno adds that final touch of Mediterranean flair.

3. Essential Accessories for the Strade Bianche

The white gravel roads of Italy are beautiful but brutal on your gear.

• Tires: Use at least 25mm or 28mm tires. Tan sidewalls are historically accurate and look best on steel frames.
• Hydration: Aluminum cages and metal bottles (bidons) are the standard.
• Outerwear: Mornings in the Chianti region can be chilly. Carrying a Team Z Windproof Vest in your back pocket is a smart way to stay warm during the early departures without ruining your vintage silhouette.

Shop the Collection

Ready to start your heroic journey? Browse our full range of L’Eroica-compatible gear:

• Eroica Vintage Jersey – The essential kit for the white roads.
• Vintage Molteni Leg Warmers – For those cold dawn starts in the hills.
• Retro Team Caps – Protect yourself from the dust in style.