Cinelli Supercorsa: History and Evolution of the Legendary Italian Bicycle Model

The Cinelli name is synonymous with Italy.

Cinelli, based in Milan, is one of the bicycle brands that best represents the "made in Italy" label worldwide. One of its most iconic models, the Supercorsa, has been a symbol of the global cycling industry for over 70 years.

But first, a bit of history. The founder, Cino Cinelli, born in 1919, was a professional cyclist in the 1930s and 1940s. He won the Giro dell'Appennino in 1937, the Giro di Lombardia in 1938, and a Milan-Sanremo race in 1943.

As a demanding and perfectionist champion, he was well aware of the mechanical limitations of bikes during that time. To address these issues, he started producing bike components and frames himself.

In 1947, Cinelli founded the Cinelli company, specializing in the production of handlebars, stems, saddles, and eventually complete bicycles.

Italy was still recovering from the aftermath of World War II, and cycling provided a source of enthusiasm for fans and an opportunity for redemption for many athletes who saw the champions of that era as role models.

It was the era of Gino Bartali, Fausto Coppi, and Fiorenzo Magni.

It's worth noting that at that time, most roads were still unpaved, and frames had relaxed geometry and generous (and heavy) tubing to withstand potholes and uneven surfaces.

However, in the post-war period, there was a progressive and widespread improvement in road conditions in Italy and Europe, with major routes being paved, making cyclists' lives easier.

Cinelli also shortened the rear triangle to reduce structural flexibility and designed an innovative seat lug with the seatstays welded to the collar in a rearward position and drilled to accommodate the seat clamp bolt. The aesthetic result was sensational, but it also improved the robustness and lightness of the frame.

Furthermore, the alignment with the seat tube was perfect, and the grip on the seatpost even firmer.

To balance the project and compensate for the rigidity of the previously mentioned components, Cino Cinelli wanted more flexible joints for the steerer tube and the seat lug. He went to Switzerland to meet Georg Fischer, an undisputed manufacturer of these components, who specially produced cast iron junctions (also known as ductile iron) for the visionary Milanese.

Lastly, let's mention the curious story related to the name of the bicycle. Originally patented as "Super Corsa," the early models featured decals with the simple abbreviation "Mod. S.C." However, in the 1960s, a decal supplier for Cinelli misunderstood the acronym S.C. and produced a batch of stickers with the inscription "Speciale Corsa."

The staff at the Caleppio Settala company wasn't bothered by the mistake and used them anyway, selling the bikes with the incorrect labels at a discounted price.

In fact, intentionally printed "Speciale Corsa" decals for Cinelli bikes were made in the following decade. Only later, to avoid further confusion, the model was officially renamed "Supercorsa."

This name is still used today for what can rightfully be called one of the longest-lasting bicycles ever produced. Its production has continued uninterrupted for over 70 years and embodies all the innovations of the evolving Milanese company.

Cinelli Supercorsa Timeline:

Cicli Corsa proudly distributes the Cinelli brand. The Supercorsa frame is available for order in both road and track configurations, offering 17 sizes (from 48 to 64) or custom geometries.

There are 8 color options, ranging from the traditional Azzurro Laser to the elegant Verde Jaguar.

As always, we offer our customers the possibility to choose their preferred groupset, wheels, and accessories to ensure a custom build that meets everyone's needs.