Ridley and Uno-X Mobility Bring the Past to Life, Honouring Eddy Merckx with Iconic 7-Eleven Design
2025 marks a special milestone for the greatest cyclist of all time: Eddy Merckx celebrates his 80th birthday. To honour “The Cannibal” and his legacy, we’re joining forces with Uno-X Mobility and several performance partners to revive the legendary 7-Eleven team for one day only — during Liège–Bastogne–Liège.
The 7-Eleven cycling team was founded in 1981 by Jim Ochowicz, a former Olympian and true ambassador of the sport. Over the following decade, the team grew into a cult favourite, achieving iconic status within American cycling. They were even immortalised in the film American Flyers, which featured a cameo by Merckx himself. In 1985, the team turned professional and secured stage victories in both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France.
In 1989, Eddy Merckx Bikes became the official equipment sponsor of 7-Eleven — a landmark partnership that gave the brand access to the U.S. market. Today, that historic link between Eddy Merckx Bikes and Ridley is one of the key reasons why BCF and Uno-X Mobility are paying tribute to 7-Eleven in such a vibrant way — precisely as Merckx turns 80.
The 7-Eleven cycling team was founded in 1981 by Jim Ochowicz, a former Olympian and true ambassador of the sport. Over the following decade, the team grew into a cult favourite, achieving iconic status within American cycling. They were even immortalised in the film American Flyers, which featured a cameo by Merckx himself. In 1985, the team turned professional and secured stage victories in both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France.
In 1989, Eddy Merckx Bikes became the official equipment sponsor of 7-Eleven — a landmark partnership that gave the brand access to the U.S. market. Today, that historic link between Eddy Merckx Bikes and Ridley is one of the key reasons why BCF and Uno-X Mobility are paying tribute to 7-Eleven in such a vibrant way — precisely as Merckx turns 80.
Thor Hushovd, General Manager, Uno-X Mobility Cycling
"The original 7-Eleven team shook up European cycling in the 1980s — with the same spark we bring to racing today. Reviving the jersey is our tribute to Eddy Merckx and an homage to the team that inspired me to dream. When Dag Otto Lauritzen won the first Norwegian Tour stage in those colours, I knew: I wanted to become a cyclist."
A Tribute Full of Symbolism
Beyond the connection between Eddy Merckx Bikes and Ridley, there’s another special link between 7-Eleven and Uno-X Mobility. Since 2023, the two brands have been working together in Norway and Denmark, where 61 Uno-X 7-Eleven fuel stations have opened — offering fast charging, sustainable fuels, and fresh products all under one roof.
This collaboration now extends into the heart of the Spring Classics. Past and present come together in a striking story. Like the trailblazing 7-Eleven team of the ’80s, Uno-X is a team of bold outsiders who dare to race offensively. It’s not just about watts — it’s about making the race.
This collaboration now extends into the heart of the Spring Classics. Past and present come together in a striking story. Like the trailblazing 7-Eleven team of the ’80s, Uno-X is a team of bold outsiders who dare to race offensively. It’s not just about watts — it’s about making the race.
Where Legacy and Performance Meet
At Liège–Bastogne–Liège, Uno-X will trade its familiar red and yellow for the green, white, and red of the iconic Team 7-Eleven — the colours that helped shape international cycling in the 1980s.
Our bikes have been meticulously painted in our own paint shop with a masterful design. CeramicSpeed adds a subtle performance edge with their OSPW system. Jerseys are crafted by Fusion — built for both history and speed. Sweet Protection provides the standout helmets, while GripGrab completes the look with matching gloves. Even the team cars, provided by Škoda, are fully styled in 7-Eleven colours, transforming the Ardennes into a moving tribute.
Our bikes have been meticulously painted in our own paint shop with a masterful design. CeramicSpeed adds a subtle performance edge with their OSPW system. Jerseys are crafted by Fusion — built for both history and speed. Sweet Protection provides the standout helmets, while GripGrab completes the look with matching gloves. Even the team cars, provided by Škoda, are fully styled in 7-Eleven colours, transforming the Ardennes into a moving tribute.
Every detail is intentional. Everything is connected.
Frank Symons, Marketing Director, Belgian Cycling Factory
"This is more than just a limited-edition bike or jersey — it's a heartfelt tribute to Eddy Merckx on his 80th birthday, and to the legacy he built. By partnering with Uno-X Mobility and our incredible collaborators to bring the iconic 7-Eleven team back to life at Liège–Bastogne–Liège, we’re reviving a piece of cycling history in a way never seen before. This is one of the most ambitious activations the sport has ever witnessed — bold, emotional, and full of energy. We’re celebrating our love for cycling, where passion, heritage, and innovation come together to inspire the next generation."
Own a Piece of History
Fans can also be part of this story. For 10 days, Fusion is offering an exclusive version of the Uno-X jersey in 7-Eleven style, available to order via their website — a unique chance to get your hands on a modern classic. The Noah Fast in the 7-Eleven design will also be available soon. More information will follow on our website.
Jochim Aerts, CEO, Belgian Cycling Factory
"With this initiative, Belgian Cycling Factory underscores its commitment to innovation, heritage, and top-tier quality. This tribute is not only a heartfelt nod to one of the sport’s greatest legends, but also a powerful expression of our boundless love for the bicycle — a love that continues to drive the sport forward."
