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erious cyclists will want to know the anatomy of each model, yet as an enterprise of
tradition and perfection, the art of creating a Montante bicycle prefers to savor its mysteries.
Inside the workshop, Alessandra Montante, the great-granddaughter of Calogero, reveals
few secrets to me, only to mention that 30 skilled artisans share space in the company’s
studio handcrafting each model, a ritual that echoes the founder’s original intention.
Contemporary riders will note the ergonomic design and amenities, even for mountain
and sport bikes. Standing behind every gorgeously confidential detail, the company
grants an identification number, a personalized guarantee card with details of the owner
and a Montante Cicli Certificate of Authenticity, all bound in a leather-branded case.
Classier than a paper receipt.
Where Ms. Montante effervescently dishes is on the subject of style. She affectionately
refers to the bicycles as “jewels.” Perusing the glamorous collection, it is clear the Montante
legacy has very well dressed clients. These ladies do not change into heels when they
arrive at the office. They ride in skirts and dresses breezily and confidently with a sexy tousle
of hair, passing hopeless tourists. The gentlemen glide past Vespas and fiery sports cars
in buttery leather loafers as blueprints sway gently on their backs. They are celebrities in
sunglasses looking to hide, or politicians happy to be seen. (Luca Cordero di Montezemolo
president and chairman of Ferrari is a client).
Even if one’s credentials fall slightly short of bon vivant, there are endlessly seductive
reasons to have a Montante bicycle: fabulous leather satchels, hand-sewn grips, spring
seats, small baskets, thoughtful accessories (a case for pens and keys) and vintage details
typically lost on a city bike. I would be happy with any one of them, truthfully. And to
have something with a sense of history and refinement, that is actually fun. The stately
Kalos, the coquettish purr of that red-red-red Fashion Milano, or a yet to be imagined
custom creation—a Montante Cicli bicycle will do wonderfully cosmopolitan things to a
girl’s head n Arianne Nardo Montante Cicli + 39 0141 470065 montantecicli.it
