Together with Coppi, Bianchi transformed, changing cycling and Italy. Team sponsorships arrived and the celeste brand became so strong in cycling that Bianchi was able to mitigate the decline of its motorbike production. Heading towards the 1970s, and the oil crisis, Bianchi opened the factory in Treviglio, near Bergamo, that spanned 75,000 square metres.
The Bianchi industry evolved, seeing a handful of ownership changes. In 1972, Angelo Trapletti and his brothers bought the company. In 1973, the enormous production potential propelled ahead with Felice Gimondi’s world jersey becoming an icon of Italy, that – not only in cycling – never gives up and manages to find victory with strength and dedication. In 1991, Piaggio acquired all the shares, adding Bianchi to other brands in its property.