2021 Strade Bianche: A Brief History: Tour Series Collection

While 2020 was a year of uncertain outcomes, 2021 should re-introduce some normality of routine. When it comes to the UCI Tour Races, we hope, like you, that all goes according to plan. 

As the go-to destination for creatives and cyclists alike, appreciating the origins of sport is important. While it's difficult to pick a favorite race, we wanted to highlight the inspiration behind a few of our Tour Collection Tees. 

As winter fades and spring approaches, so does the start of Strade Bianche. Despite its short history, the Strade Bianche has quickly become one of the most anticipated races of the year. As part of the UCI tour, the race attracts both skilled amateur and pro tour riders. The 2021 start date is Sunday, March 6th. 

While the Strade Bianche is considered a cobbled classic, It involves a variety of uniquely challenging terrain. The name of the race itself translates to White Roads, coming from the iconic white gravel roads that carve through the Tuscan countryside. Accordingly, roughly one-third of the race takes place on gravel. 

Maybe less well known, the Strade Bianche, which first took place in 2007, evolved from a recreational vintage race called the L'Eroica Strade Bianche. This race, which first took place in 1997, ran with the concept of honoring a heroic era of cycling. A time when the majority of races took place on dirt or unpaved roads. The Strade Bianche became a spring classic in 2008, moving onto the world tour in 2017, solidifying a place on the professional cycling tour.

If the dusty gravel roads aren't enough, the route includes steep uphill gradients and cobblestone paths. The race, totaling 184 km includes 11 gravel sectors, the last of which is the most difficult. Ponta del Garbo, the toughest of these gravel sectors, snakes through the vineyards of the Italian Chianti region. In this last push for victory, Ponta del Garbo tests a rider's agility, endurance, and poise in tight gravel conditions. 

As it is, the diverse terrain grants a variety of classic riders their shot at victory. Fabian Cancellara, the swiss-born rider nicknamed “Spartacus” finished 1st in 2008, 2012, & 2016. Not far behind is Michał Kwiatkowski, the Polish professional road bicycle racer who took the 2014 & 2017 victory. With all types of terrain and conditions, there is no bet on who will take this year's victory. 

That said, one thing is for sure -- Thread + Spoke will continue to be the go-to destination for creatives cycling apparel. Don’t hide your excitement, wear it! Explore our Tour Collection, which includes the coveted Strade Bianche T-shirt today. 

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