Look Bike stands as a beacon of French innovation and cycling heritage, renowned for pushing technological boundaries and enhancing rider performance since 1951. Originating in Nevers, France, the company initially manufactured ball bladders and components for premium racing bikes. The visionary shift began with founder Jean Beyl, whose personal skiing accident sparked the invention of the groundbreaking “anti-fracture” plated ski binding. This invention not only transformed ski safety but also paved the way for LOOK’s future leadership in cycling technology.
The Pedal Revolution: From Ski Slopes to Cycling Roads
The 1980s marked a transformative era for LOOK Bike. Under Bernard Tapie Sport group’s ownership, LOOK embraced a vibrant new visual identity inspired by Piet Mondrian’s art and partnered with cycling icon Bernard Hinault. This period saw the birth of the PP65, the first automatic pedal designed for cycling. Drawing inspiration from ski binding mechanisms, the PP65 offered cyclists unprecedented security and efficiency. Bernard Hinault rigorously tested these revolutionary pedals during the 1985 Tour de France. Despite a significant crash, Hinault attributed the PP65 pedals to preventing more severe injuries, and remarkably, he went on to win the race that year, cementing the pedal’s place in cycling history.
Pioneering Carbon Frames: Setting New Standards
LOOK Bike continued its innovation streak into carbon fiber technology. In 1986, they introduced the KG 86, the first carbon frame to incorporate Kevlar. This ingenious combination enhanced frame stiffness and improved handling, providing a competitive edge. Greg LeMond rode the KG 86 to victory in the 1986 Tour de France, further validating LOOK’s commitment to cutting-edge materials and design. The 1990s saw further advancements with the KG 196, the first monobloc carbon frame, and the arrival of adjustable pedals like the PP286 and PP76, all aimed at optimizing rider comfort and boosting performance.
A History Forged in Victories and Technological Milestones
Throughout its storied history, LOOK Bike has been intrinsically linked with professional cycling triumphs and groundbreaking technology. LOOK bikes powered Luc Leblanc to a World Championship title in 1994 and supported Laurent Jalabert in securing numerous classic victories and prestigious grand tour jerseys. On the track cycling scene, LOOK’s KG296 PKV carbon frames played a pivotal role in securing six medals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, showcasing their versatility across cycling disciplines.
Embracing the Modern Era: KEO Pedals and Aerodynamic Innovation
Entering the 21st century, LOOK Bike launched the KEO pedal series, which included game-changing models like the KEO 2 MAX and KEO BLADE. These innovations solidified LOOK’s reputation as a leader in pedal technology. The company’s dedication to innovation was recognized with the INPI Trophy for Innovation, awarded not once, but twice. Further exemplifying their forward-thinking approach, LOOK developed the 695 Aerolight and 795 Aerolight bikes. These models integrated state-of-the-art aerodynamics and advanced carbon technology, earning accolades such as the Eurobike Award and the IF Design Award, underscoring LOOK’s commitment to both performance and design excellence.
LOOK Bike Today: Shaping the Future of Cycling
In recent years, LOOK Bike unveiled the 796 Monoblade, a time trial and triathlon bike that pushed the boundaries of aerodynamic design and integration. Looking towards the future, LOOK embraced electric-assist technology, introducing its first e-bike in 2019 in collaboration with Fazua. This move demonstrated their commitment to blending high performance with modern e-bike technology.
Today, LOOK Bikes continues to spearhead innovation in the cycling world, seamlessly merging its rich heritage with a forward-looking vision. From pioneering automatic clipless pedals to crafting some of the most aerodynamic bicycles available, LOOK Bike remains dedicated to enhancing the cycling experience for athletes and enthusiasts worldwide.
