Venerating the Italian Worker?

In 2013, Blogger Augustus Farmer visited the factory in Vicenza and posted an interesting article with photos (of the areas where cameras were allowed). Read his post and see his copyrighted images here.

Farmer was clearly impressed with the quality of the factory and the dedication of the workers who make the company's signature components. The workers in 2013 were treated well and returned that respect in the form of a commitment to do their very best for the company. From his blog post:

"What I was to witness over the next few hours was to genuinely blow my mind. A mixture of old fashioned machine shop with its  metal and heat and noise and aroma, and a more delicate side of hand/ eye co-ordination, experience, care, design, love and dare I say it, Italian-ness. 

Watching a Ghibli wheel being made for example, will be etched onto my soul forever."

That partnership has unfortunately been thrown into disarray in recent weeks, with workers striking to protest the layoff of workers in Vicenza, a move that is part of Campagnolo's effort to move some of its production to cheaper workers in Romania. The company has announced that the layoffs will be rescinded, but the strike continues while the workers seek a solution that will retain both their work and the reputation of Campagnolo.

The Campagnolo Experience: Pricey Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Tullio's World

Just when you thought you had it all, from your Nuovo Record-equipped Cinelli to the electronic-shifting Colnago, along comes ... a $4,100 tour of Tullio's world in Italy.

Bike Rumor is reporting on the 2014 edition of the "Campagnolo Experience," a fully supported, behind-the-scenes tour of Italy themed around Campagnolo. From the Bike Rumor report,

"In partnership with Thomson Bike Tours, the 2014 Campagnolo Experience includes a chance to ride the Campagnolo Gran Fondo in Rome on Sunday, October 13 2014. The ride will include a VIP guided tour of the Campy factory as well as the opportunity to rub elbows with staff and “cycling celebrities.” The 2,995 euros per person includes 7 nights in mostly 4 star hotels, VIP dinner in Vincenza, and more. Advanced registration is starting now."

In case you're wondering, airfare to and from Italy is not included. Perhaps it's time to sell that Cinelli ...

Register for the tour here.

P.S. If you're interested in a slightly less Campy-centric tour of Italy, hit up our web sponsors, Cycle Italia. They offer complete packages of cycling-oriented tours, led by dedicated Campagnolo fans.