Celebrating Richie Porte

Richie Porte, a name synonymous with resilience and triumph in the world of cycling, has been rightfully honored with a custom-painted O2 VAM by Factor Bikes. The vibrant green frame, emblazoned with the Australian flag and the name of this lauded cyclist, symbolizes the spirit of a champion—a fitting homage to his illustrious career.

GCN Ride With Cycling Legend Richie Porte On Willunga Hill

Porte, hailing from the island of Tasmania, shifted gears from triathlon to cycling at the age of 21. His ascent in the cycling ranks was rapid and remarkable. Within four years, he donned the young rider's pink jersey at the Giro d'Italia, signaling his promise to the world. His time trial prowess shone brightly, with a near podium finish at the UCI Road World Championships in his native Australia.

Over the years, Porte's role evolved from that of a fierce individual contender to a quintessential teammate, supporting grand tour victories. Yet, he carved out his own path to victory with triumphs at Paris–Nice, the Tour Down Under, and the Volta a Catalunya, to name a few. His tenacity and strength were on full display as he clinched titles at the Tour de Romandie and the Tour de Suisse, and his crowning achievement came with a podium finish at the Tour de France in 2020—a testament to his climbing finesse and tactical acumen.

As we celebrate Porte's achievements, the custom O2 VAM stands as a testament to his legacy—a bike that not only represents his victories but also embodies his determination and the spirit of Australian cycling. It's a visual narrative of Porte's journey, each detail reflecting a chapter of his career that has inspired many.

Richie Porte may have retired from professional racing, but his impact on the sport endures. His story is one of perseverance, a rider who rose to the pinnacle of world cycling through sheer grit and unwavering dedication. And as he transitions to life beyond the peloton, the custom O2 VAM will remain a vivid reminder of what a brilliant ride it was.

Here's to Richie Porte, a true Australian cycling champion. Your wheels have left indelible tracks on the roads of history, and your legacy will continue to inspire future generations to ride, to compete, and to dream big.

With a time of 6:47 it’s clear his post-retirement fitness is still formidable.

Learn more about Richie Porte's choice