The Bicycle Elite Edition represents a watershed moment in modern playing card manufacturing. Launched in 2017, the Elite Edition re-engineered the world's most iconic Rider Back design using a proprietary crushed luxury stock that delivers a "broken-in" feel straight from the box—something magicians had to work months to achieve with standard Bicycles. Available in both Red and Blue, the Elite Edition is manufactured by the United States Playing Card Company on premium-crushed classic stock with USPCC's signature Air-Cushion Finish®.
The Crushed Stock Revolution
In 2016, USPCC introduced a revolutionary innovation: crushed stock technology. By introducing a specialized pressing process, USPCC created cards that are thinner and more flexible than standard Bicycle stock while remaining exceptionally durable. This crushed stock is resistant to warping and humidity-induced "click"—the annoying sound that develops in standard cards when exposed to moisture.
The Elite Edition was among the first to leverage this technology on a classic deck design. The result: cards that handle, shuffle, spring, and fan like decks that have been used for months, yet feel fresh and responsive straight from the sealed pack.
Classic Rider Back Design, Premium Execution
The Bicycle Elite Edition maintains the iconic 808 Rider Back design that has been trusted by magicians, poker players, and cardists for over a century. The tuck box is classic—clean, understated, professionally designed without unnecessary advertising. The only visual distinction is the "Elite Edition" text, which marketing professionals immediately recognize as a quality indicator.
Included Gaff Cards & Jokers
Every deck comes stocked with professional-grade bonus cards:
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Two identical matching Jokers (in color, not black and white)
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One double-backed card (two card backs, no faces)
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One blank-faced card (for various magic applications)
This makes the Elite Edition exceptionally practical for magicians and performers right out of the box.
Stock & Cut Specifications
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Card Stock: Crushed Bicycle (Classic) Stock
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Finish: Air-Cushion Finish®
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Cut: Traditional (crisp, clean edges for perfect faro shuffles)
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Printed By: USPCC using their Web Press system
Working Magician's Gold Standard
The Bicycle Elite Edition has become the preferred deck among working professionals in magic. The Elite Edition consistently receives praise from:
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High-level magicians (Michael Ammar, Ryan Schultz, Chris Beason, Alex Rangel) for its handling and reliability
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Cardists who appreciate the thin, responsive stock for extended flourishes
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Gamblers and casual players who value premium feel without premium pricing
Because the Elite Edition is visually identical to standard Bicycle decks, it's perfect for scenarios where you need a working deck that won't arouse suspicion—which is precisely why magicians prefer it.
Affordable Premium
The Bicycle Elite Edition offers unparalleled value. Working magicians frequently order bricks of these decks, knowing they can rely on consistent quality, responsive handling, and the professional appearance that only a Bicycle back design provides.
Made in America. Endorsed by Professional Magicians Worldwide.
