RCC + David Carson

The Factor MONZA – RCC + David Carson Edition has been released to mark the RCC’s 10th anniversary. Decorated with Carson’s signature aesthetic in club colours, the MONZA is a high-performance machine balancing speed, efficiency, and real-world usability.

Could you describe your process for creating this RCC and Factor commission?

  I was fortunate to visit the Rapha Clubhouse in Mallorca and was so impressed with the camaraderie there, cyclists just hanging out having coffee, the whole vibe. I read everything I could about the brand. I started playing with the letters R.C.C, added some rider shots, experimenting with patterns, colors and crops. I played with the logo itself, then added more imagery, some in poster format that we later customised to the various products.

What are your impressions of Rapha and our RCC community? 

In both LA and NYC I saw how many creative people are involved with Rapha. The brand and its product attracts such a diverse group of people. The innovation, rich creative history and authenticity, the way they were willing to explore so many design directions. 

What’s it like being a cyclist in California? 

The moods of the water, the breeze in your face, are all fantastic parts of cycling in the Los Angeles area. Race or cruise, it's just such a great environment.

Do you think being from California has influenced your creativity? 

I grew up around surfing and skating culture in California, and I'm sure that helped me develop my approach of ‘why not try that?' Maybe open to more unexpected things while I work, questioning the rules.

Transworld Skateboarding and Raygun are iconic publications you helped to create, what do you think about the notion that print media is a dying art form? 

Actually I would say quite the opposite. Indie magazines at all levels are flourishing again. I think it relates to a new energy where people are trying to get away from their devices. It’s a great time to be doing analogue or print work.

What advice would you give to designers and creatives looking to make their mark? 

  It sounds a bit cliche, but trust your gut, trust your intuition. No one else in the world has your unique background, your whole life experience. Use that individuality and perspective in your work – no one else has that.