🤯The world of cycling memorabilia has just witnessed an auction that sets a staggering new benchmark. The custom Colnago Y1Rs ridden by cycling phenom Tadej Pogačar—a bike that saw him conquer the final stages of the Tour de France and the World Championships—has sold for a jaw-dropping $190,500 at a Sotheby’s auction. This astronomical price not only shattered its initial estimate of $15,000–$20,000 but also underscored the Slovenian star’s unparalleled status as a modern-day cycling legend.
A Piece of Sporting History
This isn’t just a high-end bicycle; it is a meticulously crafted, historically significant racing machine. The raw carbon Colnago Y1Rs, subtly adorned with the rainbow jersey accents earned by the two-time Tour de France and current World Champion, was a key component in Pogačar’s dominant 2025 season. It was the same bike he used to set a sensational KOM on the iconic Mont Ventoux segment and ride to a stunning overall victory.
The bike’s value is derived less from its components—which, while top-tier, would typically retail for a fraction of the final price—and more from the sheer weight of the history it carries. It represents the pinnacle of performance and the extraordinary career of a rider who is redefining the sport. For a collector, owning this bicycle is like owning a piece of the yellow jersey itself.
The Auction Drama: A Late Bidding War
The auction, part of Sotheby’s ‘Colnago: Legends & Icons’ collection, drew massive attention from cycling enthusiasts and high-net-worth collectors worldwide. For much of the final day, the bidding appeared to stagnate around the $90,000 mark. However, in a flurry of activity reminiscent of a sprint finish, the price exploded in the closing minutes. The final bid of $190,500 saw the price double in a dramatic late surge, reflecting the intense desire to acquire such a unique piece of Pogačar’s incredible journey.
The sale not only highlights the soaring value of pro-level bikes ridden by champions but also signals a growing trend in the sports memorabilia market. Items directly linked to the biggest names in cycling—especially those used in moments of historic triumph—are now commanding prices that rival classic automobiles and fine art.
Beyond the Bike
While the identity of the seller (possibly Colnago itself) and the incredibly fortunate new owner remain private, the sale sends a clear message: Tadej Pogačar is one of the most bankable names in professional sports. His gear, his trophies, and now, his bicycles, are instantly elevated to the status of coveted collector’s items. This record-breaking auction result is a testament to the enduring legacy Pogačar is building, not just on the road, but in the annals of sporting history.
For those dreaming of owning a World Tour bike, another Colnago from the same collection, ridden by Pogačar’s teammate João Almeida, sold for a much more accessible (though still significant) $21,590. Still, there’s only one rainbow ride.
The question now is: what will the next Pogačar-ridden machine fetch at auction? Given his relentless pursuit of victories, we likely won’t have long to wait.