KOERS. Museum of Cycle Racing

In the heart of Roeselare, Belgium, lies a hidden gem for cycling enthusiasts and history buffs alike: KOERS. Museum of Cycle Racing. Known locally as KOERS. Museum van de Wielersport, this fascinating museum is dedicated to the rich history and culture of cycle racing. Housed in a beautifully restored former fire station, KOERS offers visitors a unique glimpse into the world of cycling, from its early beginnings to its modern-day triumphs.

The Origins of KOERS

The story of KOERS begins in 1985 when it was originally established as part of the Stedelijk Museum in Roeselare. The region of Roeselare is often considered the cradle of the Flandriens, a term used to describe the hardy and determined cyclists from Flanders. Many renowned cyclists, including Odiel Defraeye, the first Belgian winner of the Tour de France, and world champions such as Jean-Pierre Monseré, Benoni Beheyt, Patrick Sercu, and Freddy Maertens, hail from this area. Initially, the museum's cycling exhibits were modest, featuring a few old bicycles and summer exhibitions.

However, in 1998, the decision was made to transform the old folklore museum into a full-fledged cycling museum, known as the National Cycling Museum. Ferdy Callewaert served as the first curator until his retirement in 2006, followed by Patrieck Geldhof and later Patrice Van Laethem, who rebranded the museum as WieMu in 2010. In 2013, Thomas Ameye took over as curator, steering the museum towards its current incarnation as KOERS. Museum of Cycle Racing.

A Journey Through Cycling History

KOERS offers a comprehensive overview of the historical evolution of cycling in all its facets. The museum's core collection consists of an impressive array of bicycles, tracing the development of the bicycle from early walking bikes and the first velocipedes to high-wheelers, pedal bikes, and modern racing bikes. This extensive collection is displayed in the grand old ballroom of the building, providing a captivating journey through the ages of cycling.

One of the museum's highlights is the Hall of World Champions, a room dedicated to the four local world champions in cycling. This hall serves as a tribute to the region's rich cycling heritage and its contributions to the sport on a global scale. Additionally, the museum features an open viewing depot where visitors can explore a vast array of historical racing bicycles, offering a deeper insight into the technological advancements and design innovations that have shaped the sport.

Immersive Exhibits and Memorabilia

KOERS goes beyond bicycles to showcase a wide range of cycling memorabilia, including trophies, racing jerseys, posters, and other artifacts that tell the story of the sport's legendary figures and unforgettable moments. One room is entirely dedicated to local cycling hero Jean-Pierre Monseré, who tragically lost his life in a racing accident in 1971 while reigning as world champion. This poignant exhibit pays homage to Monseré's legacy and the indomitable spirit of cyclists who push the limits of human endurance.

The museum also boasts an extensive documentation center, housing a treasure trove of photographs, newspapers, cycling and sports magazines, race brochures, and cycling archives. This resource is invaluable for researchers, historians, and cycling enthusiasts seeking to delve deeper into the sport's storied past. KOERS regularly publishes exhibition catalogs and thematic books on cycling history and collaborates on various publications. Since 2012, the museum has been producing an annual cycling history magazine called Etappe.

The Historic Building

KOERS is housed in a former fire station, known as the Arsenaal, which was constructed between 1899 and 1902. The building served as a fire station until 1962 and has a storied history of its own. During World War I, it provided shelter to German troops and was bombed by British aircraft on July 21, 1917. After the war, it was rebuilt almost identically. Over the years, the building has served various purposes, including as a seat for the labor court, a bureau for military lotteries, a ballroom, a community school, and even a sports hall for a local volleyball club. In the 1990s, the building was protected as a monument and partially restored.

In late 2014, the museum temporarily closed its doors for extensive restoration and renovation work, which lasted until the summer of 2018. During this period, the museum's collection was housed in the nearby Paterskerk, where a long-running temporary exhibition titled Cycling is Religion was held. This exhibition, exploring the connection between cycling and religion, received the Heritage Prize for Public Engagement from the province of West Flanders in 2017. On March 27, 2018, in celebration of its twentieth anniversary, the museum was officially renamed KOERS. Museum of Cycle Racing, and it reopened its doors to the public on September 8, 2018.

A Must-Visit for Cycling Enthusiasts

For anyone with a passion for cycling, KOERS. Museum of Cycle Racing is an unmissable destination. The museum's captivating exhibits, rich historical artifacts, and immersive displays offer a unique and comprehensive look into the world of cycling. Whether you're a dedicated cyclist, a sports history aficionado, or simply curious about the sport's evolution, KOERS provides an engaging and educational experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art and science of cycling.

So, if you find yourself in Roeselare, make sure to pedal your way to KOERS. Museum of Cycle Racing and embark on a journey through the exhilarating world of cycle racing, where history, culture, and passion come together in perfect harmony.