In 1890, the first bicycle tyres began to appear at the Pirelli factory in Via Ponte Seveso, Milan, alongside technical and consumer items in rubber. Production began on a completely experimental basis, but it gave the market a product that was almost impossible to puncture even though it was also very heavy to push. It was not long, however, before a more agile version appeared, for in 1893 the company patented the “Tipo Milano”, the first tyre to be fitted with a tubular cord, which significantly reduced weight and improved manoeuvrability.

Named in honour of the capital of Lombardy, the Tipo Milano transformed bicycles into a promising and innovative mode of transportation. At a time when cars were scarce, two wheels
perfectly responded to citizens’ desire for speed, efficiency, and independence. This transition from velocipedes, which were elegant yet cumbersome for long rides, to bicycles,
which were more suitable for rough, unpaved roads, ensured the immense success of Pirelli tyres. And indeed, just one year after it hit the market, the “Tipo Milano” had taken in 825,000 lire, accounting for 12% of the company’s total turnover.

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