Serotta is marking its 40 years as a premier handcrafted performance bicycle manufacturer, offering a limited edition paint scheme and a special contest.

The company will offer 40 custom bike frames sporting a limited-edition anniversary paint scheme. The black, red, and yellow colors are an option on the carbon fiber MeiVici, the carbon and titanium Ottrott, the titanium Legend, and the steel Colorado. For details, see Serotta.com.

"As part of our Ultimate Ride Contest, we're inviting our cyclists to share stories about their favorite Serotta ride, trip, or experience, for the chance to win a new bike," said Ben Serotta, company founder and president.

Contest participants will receive a commemorative Serotta 40th Anniversary water bottle and be eligible to win an expert fitting, a Serotta frame of the winner's choice, and a full component kit. The public will choose the top 12 entries through online voting at Serotta.com and Serotta's Facebook page. From those top 12, Ben Serotta will select his favorite as the grand prize winner. The Ultimate Ride Contest is open to Serotta riders who are U.S. residents age 18 or over. The entry deadline is November 19, 2012.

Founded in 1972 with the goal to build the world’s best 100 percent handcrafted bicycles, the company has a history of industry-leading innovation in material design and engineering. Starting with the introduction of the Size Cycle  in 1979 and the company's internationally acclaimed educational programs, Serotta ultimately transformed the way the industry looks at bike fitting, indirectly benefiting millions of cyclists, according to the firm.

"For 40 years, Serotta has been dedicated to delivering the ultimate cycling experience by redefining the boundaries of engineering, manufacturing, and fitting technologies. We've always been committed to building the best bicycle in the world for each cyclist," Serotta said.

--Jennie