Rapha Continental Bikes.
As I’m sure many of you already know, Rapha makes high-quality jerseys with simple designs that are incredibly durable. At the same time, I think they are a wonderful company that, more than just selling products, effectively conveys exactly how wonderful—and equally how grueling—the world of cycling can be through marketing from a true rider’s perspective. And for many years now, Rapha has held an event called the Rapha Continental Ride, which is punishingly grueling. (To give you an idea of just how grueling, imagine the Gentlemen’s Race that was recently held in Japan, but continuous for days on end.)
I heard that Rapha_USA recently held a party in Portland to bring together the Continental Bikes from throughout the years.
Both Hunter and Sycip have built Continental Bikes. (I highly encourage you to read the text in the link. It is one of the best descriptions I have ever seen of these builders—whom I consider the best—and their bicycles.)
The premise of this ride is that it is grueling, pushing relentlessly forward not only on-road, but also across steep elevation gains and gravel roads, and it is also defined by the requirement that the bikes themselves must be "beautiful." The fact that our friends are the ones capable of creating them makes me feel proud myself.
I am truly grateful for this world, where information is now available in real-time, allowing me to share these feelings with everyone instantly.