While classic car shows and motorbike parades often take the cake when it comes to showcasing vintage vehicles, Gstaad is offering a humbler commemoration this September with the “Gstaad Velo Classic”, an event where vintage cycling enthusiasts from all over can come together to experience a joint ride through Saanenland’s meandering valleys and cascading mountains – whether spectator or participant.

Those in the know will remember the “Bergkönig” – the annual vintage bike race that once called Gstaad home – has sadly been relocated to the Emmental by patron Alex Beeler

But turn that frown upside down! Because in its place, the “Gstaad Velo Classic” will provide equal measures of enjoyment with an even greater dose of community spirit.

Times are not recorded; participants are instead encouraged to embrace the area’s natural beauty as a group who share the same passion, without all those pesky beads of sweat pouring over your eyes and spoiling your view.

The scenic route
“The cycling route from Gstaad to Lauenen, then Turbach and back, is designed to be accessible to everyone. If you're looking for more of a challenge, there's the option to extend the ride to Lauenensee and Saanenmöser with additional loops. However, the core loop should be achievable for 95% of cyclists during the day. It's all about enjoying a fun and delightful day on your vintage bike in Gstaad with friends and fellow enthusiasts, rather than a gruelling battle over numerous mountains, as bicycle race events are for many participants,” says Patrick Bauer.

Cycling in style
There are stipulations though! In order to participate, the bicycle must be built before 1990, and has to be built with steel, aluminium, or carbon frames – much like the hips of those of you who can remember 1990!

Mountain bikes are invited too; after all, it’s not like Gstaad isn’t famous for its mountains. Direct yourself to the website for a more technical breakdown of the specifications.

The wardrobe must fit the bill too! Away with the fluorescent lycra and snake-eye sunglasses of the keen beans – this is the time to make cycling look cool again!

And while there are no prizes on offer for athletic achievements, a panel will award the most aesthetically pleasing vintage get-up headto-toe – so go as old-school as you possibly can!

Wool jumpers, leather shoes and the like are encouraged, as per the guidelines indicated on the website, but participants will not be judged should they choose to take appropriate safety measures and bring a helmet.

Celebrate history
“What sets the Gstaad Velo Classic apart from general vintage races is its emphasis on a different aspect of the cycling experience. While the events share the core idea of riding vintage bikes amidst the stunning and distinctive landscape, the Gstaad Velo Classic places a particular focus on creating a social, enjoyable, and fun atmosphere,” explains Patrick Bauer.

“The Gstaad Velo Classic retains the essence of the Bergkönig by celebrating the joy of cycling on vintage bikes in a picturesque setting and offering delightful food stations featuring authentic local cuisine. No artificial energy bars, energy drinks or isotonic waters are found here!

TWO Q&A’S FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE GVC COMMITTEE

How will the Velo Classic develop and become a staple of Gstaad?
Hard to tell. We will see in the next few years. Maybe it’s a micro event for just a core of vintage cyclists of the region. Maybe it grows. Hopefully, we have a lot of happy people after the first event who will bring back at least two friends next year. We are convinced Gstaad has a lot to offer.

Why is it important that Gstaad should remain the epicentre of vintage (bike) culture and “the show”?
That’s not our goal! The Eroica in Tuscany can put claim to that. It’s a show that has been running for years, and with thousands of participants, it is clearly the epicentre. As I said before, we want to keep the gown little soul of vintage alive. People should ride their beautiful bikes, enjoy the day in Gstaad on quiet sideroads in a unique landscape and have a good experience. It’s an event from vintage cyclists for vintage cyclists.

The Gstaad Velo Classic takes place on 17 September; read more on www.gstaadveloclassic.ch

JOE MANNION