Just WOW!
Pushing 4000 words below, we are not going to waste your time, Scroll through the list, in no particular order, but generally starting with the larger bicycle manufacturers at the top. We show you who they are, when and where they come from. Plus something unique and a link to the company site for the latest and greatest on what they have to offer.
No time for logo’s here…
GIANT for great value
Giant (1972, Taiwan) is a Taiwanese bicycle manufacturer that has become one of the largest bicycle brands in the world. It produces a wide range of bikes, from road bikes and mountain bikes to electric bikes and kid’s bikes. What makes Giant unique is its in-house manufacturing and engineering capabilities, which allows it to control the entire production process and produce high-quality, innovative bikes. You can find more information about Giant and its products at https://www.giant-bicycles.com/.
TREK’s huge new logo’s
Trek (1976, USA) is an American bicycle manufacturer that is known for its high-quality and innovative bikes. The company produces a wide range of bikes, from road bikes and mountain bikes to electric bikes and kids’ bikes. Trek is also well-known for its carbon fiber technology, which it uses to create lightweight and durable frames. What makes Trek unique is its commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact and supporting social responsibility initiatives. You can learn more about Trek and its products at https://www.trekbikes.com/.
SPECIALIZED is the one for me
Specialized (1974, USA) is a US-based company that produces a wide range of bikes, from road bikes and mountain bikes to electric bikes and kids’ bikes. The company is known for its cutting-edge technology, such as its Body Geometry Fit system and innovative bike components. Specialized has also been at the forefront of bike safety, with a focus on developing new technologies that improve rider safety. You can learn more about Specialized and its products at https://www.specialized.com/.
MERIDA Reacto please
Merida (1972, Taiwan) is a Taiwanese bicycle manufacturer that produces a wide range of bikes, from road bikes and mountain bikes to electric bikes and kids’ bikes. The company is known for its innovative design and technology, such as its patented Reacto aero road bike frame and its eOne-Sixty electric mountain bike. Merida also has a strong commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly practices. You can learn more about Merida and its products at https://www.merida-bikes.com/.
SHIMANO is more than components
Shimano (1921, Japan) is a Japanese company that produces a wide range of cycling components and accessories, including groupsets, pedals, wheels, and apparel. The company is known for its high-quality products and cutting-edge technology, such as its Di2 electronic shifting system and its Dyna-Sys mountain bike drivetrain. Shimano is also committed to sustainability, with a focus on reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices. You can learn more about Shimano and its products at https://bike.shimano.com/.
CANNONDALE’s sleek new logo
Cannondale (1971, USA) is an American company that produces a wide range of bikes, from road bikes and mountain bikes to electric bikes and kids’ bikes. The company is known for its innovative design and technology, such as its Lefty suspension fork and its AI (Asymmetric Integration) frame design. Cannondale has also been a pioneer in the use of carbon fiber, with a focus on creating lightweight and durable frames. You can learn more about Cannondale and its products at https://www.cannondale.com/.
SCOTT is a US firm with Swiss ties
Scott (1958, USA) is an American company that produces a wide range of bikes, from road bikes and mountain bikes to electric bikes and kids’ bikes. The company is known for its cutting-edge design and technology, such as its TwinLoc suspension system and its F01 aerodynamic tube shapes. Scott is also committed to sustainability, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly practices. You can learn more about Scott and its products at https://www.scott-sports.com/.
SANTA CRUZ’s cult following
Santa Cruz (1993, USA) – Santa Cruz Bicycles is an American bicycle manufacturer founded in 1993. They are known for their high-end mountain bikes and are recognized for their use of carbon fiber in bicycle frames. In addition to mountain bikes, Santa Cruz also produces road, cyclocross, and gravel bikes. Their brand motto is “simply advanced,” reflecting their focus on innovation and quality in all their products. The company website is https://www.santacruzbicycles.com.
BIANCHI’s famous colour
Bianchi (1885, Italy) – Bianchi is an Italian bicycle manufacturer founded in 1885. They are one of the oldest bicycle brands in the world and are known for their high-quality road bikes. Bianchi has a long history of success in professional cycling and has been ridden to victory in the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France, and other major races. The company is also famous for its signature “Celeste” color, a distinctive light blue-green shade used on many of their bikes. The company website is https://www.bianchi.com.
COLNAGO from the 50’s
Colnago (1952, Italy) – Colnago is an Italian bicycle manufacturer founded in 1952. The company is known for producing high-end road bikes, with a focus on quality and craftsmanship. Colnago has a long history of success in professional cycling, having been ridden to victory in numerous major races, including the Tour de France. Colnago is also known for their iconic “club cut” cycling jersey, which has become a symbol of cycling culture. The company website is https://www.colnago.com.
KTM for Schwarzenegger
KTM (1964, Austria) – KTM is an Austrian motorcycle and bicycle manufacturer founded in 1964. They are known for producing high-performance bicycles for mountain biking, road cycling, and cyclocross. KTM also produces a range of electric bikes and is recognized for their use of advanced technology in their products. In addition to bicycles, KTM is also famous for their line of off-road motorcycles. The company website is https://www.ktm.com.
CUBE synonymously German
Cube (1993, Germany) – Cube is a German bicycle manufacturer founded in 1993. The company is known for producing a wide range of high-quality bicycles, including road, mountain, hybrid, and electric bikes. Cube is recognized for their use of advanced technology and innovative design in their products, as well as their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company website is https://www.cube.eu.
FUJI from the 1800’s
Fuji (1899, Japan) – Fuji is a Japanese bicycle manufacturer founded in 1899. They are one of the oldest bicycle brands in the world and are known for producing high-quality road, mountain, and hybrid bikes. Fuji has a long history of success in professional cycling, having been ridden to victory in numerous major races. In addition to bicycles, Fuji also produces a range of other outdoor and fitness products, including paddleboards and cross-training equipment. The company website is https://www.fujibikes.com.
PINARELLO’s famous silhouette
Pinarello (1952, Italy) is a high-end Italian bicycle manufacturer that specializes in road bikes. Pinarello has been the bike of choice for professional cycling teams, including Team Sky and Team INEOS, and has won numerous Tour de France titles. The company is known for its innovative designs, including the Dogma F12, which is one of the most aerodynamic road bikes available. Pinarello also offers a range of carbon and aluminum road, mountain, and e-bikes. Visit their website at https://pinarello.com/
WILIER and Bassano del Grappa
Wilier (1906, Italy) is a premium Italian bicycle brand that produces road, mountain, and e-bikes. The company’s name is derived from the first two letters of its founder’s name, Pietro Dal Molin, and the last two letters of his hometown, Bassano del Grappa. Wilier is known for its classic designs, such as the Cento10PRO road bike, and for its innovative use of materials, such as its Triestina Hybrid frame, which combines carbon fiber and aluminum. The company also sponsors a professional cycling team, Wilier Triestina-Selle Italia. Visit their website at https://www.wilier.com/
YETI was in Sandton
Yeti Cycles (1985, United States) is a mountain bike manufacturer that specializes in high-end, premium bikes. Also known for its innovative designs, such as the Switch Infinity suspension system, which provides excellent pedaling efficiency and control, and for its commitment to sustainability, such as its partnership with the National Forest Foundation to plant trees in the United States. Yeti offers a range of mountain bikes, including cross-country, trail, enduro, and downhill bikes. Visit their website at https://yeticycles.com/
BMC Roadmachine
BMC (1986, Switzerland) is a Swiss bicycle manufacturer that produces road, mountain, and e-bikes. Also known for its cutting-edge designs, such as the Timemachine, which is one of the most aerodynamic road bikes available, and for its use of high-quality materials, such as carbon fiber. They have won numerous professional cycling races, including the Tour de France, and sponsors several professional cycling teams. Visit their website at https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/
ORBEA is the oldest so far
Orbea (1840, Spain) is a Spanish bicycle manufacturer that produces road, mountain, and e-bikes. Guess what? Orbea is known for its commitment to sustainability, such as its use of recycled materials in its bicycles and its support for cycling advocacy groups. Orbea offers a range of bicycles, from entry-level to high-end, and allows customers to customize their bikes with a wide range of options. Visit their website at https://www.orbea.com/
MONGOOSE for BMX
Mongoose (1974, United States) is an American bicycle manufacturer that produces a range of bicycles, including BMX, mountain, and urban bikes. Known for its commitment to innovation, such as its use of hydraulic brakes on BMX bikes and its partnership with the USA BMX Foundation to support BMX racing. Mongoose offers a range of high-quality, affordable bicycles for riders of all ages and abilities. Visit their website at https://www.mongoose.com/
GT Zasker with triple triangle
GT (1972, United States) is an American bicycle manufacturer that produces a range of bicycles, including mountain, BMX, and road bikes. They have the Triple Triangle frame, which provides excellent stability and control, and for its commitment to the BMX community, such as its sponsorship of the GT BMX Freestyle Team. GT offers a range of high-quality bicycles for riders of all ages and abilities. Visit their website at https://www.gtbicycles.com/
ELECTRA was new, for me
Electra (1993, United States) – Electra is a California-based company that specializes in designing and manufacturing bikes for recreational riding, commuting, and fitness. They are known for their unique, retro-inspired designs that are both stylish and functional. The company’s bikes are designed to be comfortable and easy to ride, making them a popular choice for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. Their website is https://www.electrabike.com/
FELT just about right
Felt (1994, United States) – Felt is an American company that specializes in road, mountain, and electric bikes. They are known for their cutting-edge technology and innovative design. Felt’s mission is to create the best possible cycling experience for their customers by offering bikes that are comfortable, efficient, and fast. Their website is https://feltbicycles.com/
CERVELO hails from Canada
Cervelo (1995, Canada) – Cervelo is a Canadian company that designs and manufactures high-performance road, triathlon, and track bikes. The company is known for its advanced engineering and use of materials such as carbon fiber, which make their bikes both lightweight and strong. Cervelo’s bikes have won numerous awards and are popular among professional and amateur cyclists alike. Their website is https://www.cervelo.com/
RALEIGH in the UK and Makro
Raleigh (1887, United Kingdom) – Raleigh is a British bicycle company that has been producing bikes for over 130 years. The company is known for its classic designs and affordable prices. Raleigh offers a wide range of bikes, including road, mountain, and electric bikes. Their website is https://www.raleigh.co.uk/
LAPIERRE’s fancy suspension
Lapierre (1946, France) – Lapierre is a French bicycle company that produces road, mountain, and electric bikes. The company is known for its innovative technology and use of high-quality materials. Lapierre’s bikes are designed to provide an exceptional riding experience, with a focus on comfort, efficiency, and durability. Their website is https://www.lapierre-bikes.co.uk/
FOCUS is no hocus pocus
Focus (1992, Germany) – Focus is a German bicycle company that produces a wide range of bikes, including road, mountain, and electric bikes. The company is known for its high-quality materials and advanced technology, which make their bikes both fast and durable. Focus’s bikes are designed to meet the needs of both professional and amateur cyclists. Their website is https://www.focus-bikes.com/
SALSA spells adventure
Salsa (1982, United States) – Salsa is an American company that specializes in producing high-quality mountain and gravel bikes. The company is known for its innovative designs and use of advanced materials, which make their bikes both lightweight and strong. Salsa’s bikes are designed to handle the most challenging terrain and provide an exceptional riding experience. Their website is https://salsacycles.com/
SURLY the men of steel
Surly (1998, United States) is a brand of steel bicycles and frames, known for their durable and versatile designs. Their bikes are often used for bikepacking, touring, and commuting, and are known for their ability to handle rough terrain and heavy loads. Surly offers a variety of bikes, including fat bikes, touring bikes, and mountain bikes, and they also offer a range of bikepacking accessories. The brand has a cult following among bike enthusiasts, and their bikes are often customized by their owners. Visit their website at https://surlybikes.com/
MARIN 80’s Californication
Marin (1986, United States) is a California-based bicycle company that offers a range of mountain, road, and hybrid bikes. The brand is known for its innovation in bike design, particularly in the development of the first mountain bikes in the late 1980s. Today, Marin continues to push the boundaries of bike design, offering a range of cutting-edge bikes for a variety of disciplines. Marin is also committed to sustainability, and their bikes are built with environmentally-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Visit their website at https://www.marinbikes.com/
DEVINCI also from Canada
Devinci (1987, Canada) is a Canadian bicycle company that offers a range of mountain, road, and e-bikes. Also known for their focus on innovation and performance, and their bikes are often designed with input from professional athletes. The company has a strong commitment to sustainability, and their bikes are built using environmentally-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Devinci is also known for its community engagement, sponsoring local events and initiatives to promote cycling. Visit their website at https://www.devinci.com/
KONA and the Ironman®
Kona (1988, United States) is a brand of mountain, road, and hybrid bikes, known for their durability and versatility. The Kona bikes are designed to handle a range of terrain, from rugged mountain trails to urban streets, and they are often customized by their owners. The brand is committed to sustainability, and their bikes are built using environmentally-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Kona is also known for its community engagement, sponsoring a range of events and initiatives to promote cycling. Visit their website at https://konaworld.com/
HARO in chain stores
Haro (1978, United States) is a brand of BMX, mountain, and hybrid bikes, known for their quality and affordability. Plus, Haro bikes are designed for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to professional athletes, and are often used for freestyle and competitive riding. The brand has a strong commitment to sustainability, and their bikes are built using environmentally-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Haro is also committed to community engagement, sponsoring a range of events and initiatives to promote cycling. Visit their website at https://harobikes.com/
JAMIS not in SA?
Jamis (1979, United States) is a brand of mountain, road, and hybrid bikes, known for their quality and performance. And Jamis bikes are designed for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to professional athletes, and are often customized by their owners. The brand is committed to sustainability, and their bikes are built using environmentally-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Jamis is also known for its community engagement, sponsoring a range of events and initiatives to promote cycling. Visit their website at https://www.jamisbikes.com/
DAHON after David Hon
Dahon (1982, United States) is a brand that specializes in folding bikes. It was founded by Dr. David Hon, who wanted to create a folding bike that could easily be stored in small apartments or taken on public transport. Dahon’s bikes are known for their innovative folding mechanisms and durability, and they have won numerous design awards. The company offers a wide range of folding bikes for commuters, touring, and recreational riders, as well as electric folding bikes. Their website is https://dahon.com/.
BROMPTON folds away
Brompton (1975, United Kingdom) is a manufacturer of folding bikes based in London. Brompton’s unique selling point is their compact size and portability, as their bikes can be folded up in a matter of seconds and carried on public transport or stored under a desk. The company offers a range of customization options, allowing customers to choose everything from the handlebars to the color of the frame. Brompton is known for their high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, and their bikes are popular with commuters and urban cyclists. Their website is https://www.brompton.com/.
CINELLI based in Milan
Cinelli (1947, Italy) is a brand of high-end road bikes that is based in Milan. Did you know Cinelli is known for their innovative designs, with a focus on performance and style. They were one of the first companies to use aluminum and carbon fiber in their bike frames, and they have collaborated with artists and designers to create visually stunning bikes. Cinelli’s bikes are popular with professional cyclists and enthusiasts, and the brand also offers a range of cycling accessories. Their website is https://cinelli.it/.
LOOK, it’s here!
Look (1951, France) is a brand that specializes in road bikes and cycling equipment. Here and there and everywhere. Look is known for their carbon fiber frames, which are designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic. They were the first company to introduce clipless pedals in 1984, which revolutionized the sport of cycling. Look’s bikes are popular with professional cyclists and amateurs alike, and the brand also offers a range of accessories such as shoes, helmets, and eyewear. Their website is https://www.lookcycle.com/.
DE ROSA from Italy
De Rosa (1953, Italy) is a manufacturer of high-end road bikes that are known for their distinctive Italian design and craftsmanship. Their bikes are built with custom geometry, ensuring that each bike fits its rider perfectly. They are made with a combination of steel, aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber, and the company offers a range of customization options for customers. De Rosa’s bikes are popular with professional cyclists and enthusiasts who value style and performance. Their website is https://derosa.it/.
BOARDMAN and the olympics
Boardman (2007, United Kingdom) is a brand of road and mountain bikes that was founded by Chris Boardman, a former Olympic gold medalist and world record holder. Boardman’s bikes are designed to be affordable and high-performance, with a focus on aerodynamics and speed. The brand also offers a range of cycling accessories such as helmets, shoes, and clothing. Boardman’s bikes are popular with beginners and enthusiasts alike, and the company has won numerous awards for their innovative designs. Their website is https://www.boardmanbikes.com/.
RIDGEBACK has got your back
Ridgeback (1983, United Kingdom) – Ridgeback is a British bicycle brand that produces a wide range of bikes, including road, mountain, touring, and hybrid bicycles. Known for its reliable and durable bikes, which are designed for everyday use as well as long-distance touring. Their bikes often feature high-quality components from brands like Shimano and Schwalbe. Ridgeback also offers a range of electric bikes, which are becoming increasingly popular in the cycling industry. Visit their website at https://www.ridgeback.co.uk/
GHOST says BOO in German
Ghost (1993, Germany) – Ghost is a German bicycle brand that offers a variety of high-quality bikes, including road, mountain, and e-bikes. Their bikes are known for their innovative design and attention to detail, with a focus on creating lightweight, durable frames that deliver high performance. Their mountain bikes are particularly popular, with models designed for cross-country, trail, and enduro riding. Ghost also produces a range of children’s bikes, making it a great choice for families looking to hit the trails together. Visit their website at https://www.ghost-bikes.com/
LAPIERRE again!
Lapierre (1946, France) – Lapierre is a French bicycle brand that has been producing high-quality bikes for over 70 years. They produce a wide range of bikes, including road, mountain, electric, and kids bikes. And are particularly known for their full-suspension mountain bikes, which are designed to tackle the toughest terrain with ease. In addition to their bikes, Lapierre also produces a range of cycling accessories, including helmets, shoes, and clothing. Lapierre is committed to producing bikes that are not only high performance but also environmentally sustainable, with a focus on reducing their carbon footprint. Visit their website at https://www.lapierre-bikes.co.uk/
CORRATEC’s are around here
Corratec (1990, Germany) – Corratec is a German bicycle brand that specializes in road and mountain bikes. Corratec bikes are known for their innovative designs and use of high-quality materials. They are particularly popular in the mountain biking community, with their full-suspension bikes designed to deliver a smooth and responsive ride. Corratec also produces a range of electric bikes, which are becoming increasingly popular among cyclists. Visit their website at https://corratec.com/
DIAMONDBACK for Seth
Diamondback (1977, United States) – is an American bicycle brand that produces a wide range of bikes, including road, mountain, and hybrid bikes. Berm peak favourite! Diamondback is known for its high-quality bikes, which are designed for riders of all levels. They are particularly popular in the mountain biking community, with their full-suspension mountain bikes designed to tackle even the most challenging terrain. Diamondback also produces a range of BMX bikes, making it a popular choice for younger riders. Visit their website at https://www.diamondback.com/
NINER for a miner
Niner (2005, USA) – Niner is a mountain bike manufacturer that was founded in 2005 in California. The company is known for its focus on producing high-quality, cutting-edge bikes with an emphasis on the latest technology and design. Niner is particularly renowned for its expertise in the development of full-suspension mountain bikes, and its bikes are used by professional riders around the world. Niner’s website is https://ninerbikes.com/.
MERCKX, the only Belgian here
Merckx (1980, Belgium) – Merckx is a Belgian bicycle brand that was founded in 1980 by legendary cyclist Eddy Merckx. The company is known for its premium road bikes, which are handmade in Belgium and designed for both professional and amateur riders. Merckx has a reputation for producing bikes that are both fast and comfortable, with an emphasis on innovation and high-quality craftsmanship. Merckx’s website is https://www.eddymerckx.com/.
KHS with along history
KHS (1974, USA) – KHS is an American bicycle manufacturer that was founded in 1974 in California. The company is known for producing high-quality bikes that are both durable and affordable, with a focus on mountain bikes, road bikes, and BMX bikes. KHS has a strong reputation for quality, and its bikes are used by riders around the world. KHS’s website is https://khsbicycles.com/.
SCOTTY same as before
Scotty (1958, Japan) – Scotty is a Japanese bicycle brand that was founded in 1958. The company produces a range of bikes, including road, mountain, and electric bikes. Scotty is particularly known for its high-performance road bikes, which are used by professional cyclists around the world. The company has a strong reputation for quality and innovation, and is continually developing new technologies to improve the performance of its bikes. Scotty’s website is https://www.scott-sports.com/.
AVANTI and the sheep
Avanti (1985, New Zealand) – Avanti is a New Zealand-based bicycle brand that was founded in 1985. The company produces a range of bikes, including road, mountain, and electric bikes, and is particularly known for its high-quality racing bikes. Avanti is committed to innovation and design, and is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with bike technology. Avanti’s website is https://www.avantibikes.com/.
NORCO available locally
Norco (1964, Canada) – Norco is a Canadian bicycle manufacturer that was founded in 1964. The company produces a range of bikes, including road, mountain, and electric bikes. They are also known for their innovative designs and commitment to quality. Norco is particularly renowned for its mountain bikes, which are designed for both recreational and professional riders. Norco’s website is https://www.norco.com/.
FIN! At long last. As always, We transport all bike brands. Which do you prefer? And what should be added to this list?
8 Comments
actually bianchi is the oldest bike making company, Orphea is older as a company but started making biked 35 years after bianchi
Thanks Nicolas, I didn't know that — and love these trivia 🙂 According to a snippet on the pro's closet it seems 'Orbea began in 1840, 45 years before Bianchi, producing handguns.' Now we know 🙂
Nuke Proof?
Well spotted, thanks Jonathan. I browsed some more and according to the suspensiontraveler.com their list of the THE 39 MOST REPUTABLE MOUNTAIN BIKE MANUFACTURERS in 2023 included the following — 10 of them unfamiliar to me: Antidote, Atherton, Banshee*, Bianchi, Cannondale, Canyon, Commencal, Cube, Devinci, Evil Bikes, Forbidden Bikes*, Ghost, Giant, GT Bicycles, Haibike*, Ibis, Intense Cycles, Kona, Lapierre, Marin, Merida, Mondraker*, Niner, Norco, Nukeproof, Orange Bikes*, Orbea, Pivot, Pole Bicycles*, Privateer*, Propain*, Radon*, Rocky Mountain, Santa Cruz, Scott, Specialized, Transition, Trek, Unno*, Yeti, YT Industries. Not necessarily the largest bike brands in the world, but subjectively the best MTB brands according to them. Now we know 🙂
Too bad there was no room on the list for TIME bicylces. 🙁
Well spotted Thomas! And yes we have spotted many TIME(less) road bike before 🙂
How could you forget these 2 brands?
– SRAM CORPORATION : 50%+ of transmissions today
– ENVE : probably the best wheels and carbon components, with Poggy riding and winning on those wheels
Thanks MIKA – well spotted, and yes I also use SRAM, albeit not ENVE (yet, maybe). For this list we focused on bicycle brands, not necessarily bicycle components manufacturers, but you are quite right: SHIMANO is on the list, so SRAM should be mentioned.