Rainbow stylin’ – The bikes, kit and on-bike style of world road race champions past and present

Of all road cycling’s many prizes, the title of World Champion may just stand alone as the highest possible achievement in our sport. Of course, it depends on who you ask, monuments, grand tour titles and the Olympic Games are all massive victories that make careers. But does the siren call of the rainbow jersey make every rider dream? 

As well as the title and the glory, each new world champion earns the right to wear the hallowed rainbow jersey for the year. The rainbow jersey’s simple design is based on the Olympic ring colours. And was first awarded to male riders in 1927 and won by Alfredo Binda. The first women’s championship followed later in 1958 and was won by Elsy Jacobs.