The company first became known for high quality steel framed bicycles suitable for the demanding environment of professional racing, and later as one of the more creative cycling manufacturers responsible for innovations in design and experimentation with new and diverse materials including carbon fiber, now a mainstay of modern bicycle construction.
Humble Beginnings and Early Success1954:
Ernesto Colnago, a former apprentice at Gloria Bicycles and a road racer whose career was cut short by a crash, opened a small 20-square-metre workshop at Via Garibaldi 10 in Cambiago.1955–1963
While building his own hand-built steel frames, Ernesto gained renown as a top-tier racing mechanic, working on the Giro d’Italia and later becoming the head mechanic for the legendary Molteni cycling team.1970: Following Michele Dancelli’s Milan–San Remo victory on a Colnago bike, the famous Ace of Clubs (clover) logo was adopted.
Golden Era of Steel and Champions:
- 1972: Ernesto built a featherlight 5.75 kg steel bike for Eddy Merckx, who used a Colnago to break the prestigious Hour Record.
- 1980s: The brand collaborated with the Soviet Olympic team, leading to major games victories, and began a groundbreaking technical partnership with Ferrari to experiment with advanced composite materials
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