Wheel 5200 is waiting for new winners

Replica of the 5200 years old wheel found on Ljubljana Marshes, made with the modern high-tech, is now a traditional trophy for Tour of Slovenia winner. Who will get this unique trophy a week from now in Novo mesto?

A replica of this oldest known bicycle was made in the most modern 3D printing technique. The cup was entirely designed by the restorer of the City Museum of Ljubljana, Katarina Toman Kracina. The production of one trophy required almost 50 hours of very precise work, which was done in the Ljubljana company INTRI. The model is printed from special dust particles based on a 3D scan, which was previously made on the original wheel in a German conservation workshop in Mainz. The printed model is then accurately painted, which is the work of a museum restorer. Each trophy also has its own certificate, which proves its authenticity and gives additional value to the sculpture, which will be awarded to the winners of the 27th edition of the Tour of Slovenia.

The original Wheel 5200 is on display in the City museum of Ljubljana.

Four Wheel 5200 trophies were awarded in 2021 season. Biggest went to race winner Tadej Pogačar, and of course runner-up Diego Ulissi and third place winner Matteo Sobrero. Fourth trophy for the best host of the race was awarded to Nova Gorica.

Photo: Sportida