Custom painted frames used to be reserved for special occasions, holders of the yellow jersey for example, but as we’re seeing in this year’s race, most manufacturers are turning out custom painted bikes and accessories for their leading riders for every day use. If anything, it helps them stand out in the peloton.
Lance Armstrong has been perhaps the most prolific rider of custom painted bicycles since his return to professional racing, with a quite impressive string of bold, and sometimes stomach turning, painted bicycles.
The latest custom bike for Armstrong then has been painted by artist Damien Hirst, a man who needs no introduction, and is the latest exhibit to feature in the Stages Project – a global art exhibition to raise funds and awareness for Livestrong. The Stages website reports that over 20 artists have donated their time to ‘express the Livestrong message’ so don’t expect this to be the last custom bicycle for Armstrong.
Makes you want to get your paintbrush out doesn’t it…
