Bianchi, a name synonymous with cycling heritage and innovation, stands as the world’s oldest bicycle manufacturing company still in operation. Celebrating over 129 years in 2019, Bianchi Bikes represent a rich history of Italian design, performance, and a commitment to the cycling community. From its humble beginnings in Milan to its current global presence, Bianchi has consistently pushed the boundaries of bicycle technology and design.
Founded in 1885 by the then 21-year-old Edoardo Bianchi, the company started as a small shop at via Nirone in Milan. Bianchi’s innovative spirit was evident early on; in 1913, he pioneered the front brake system, a significant advancement in bicycle safety and control. This invention was just the beginning of Bianchi’s contributions to cycling technology.
By 1914, Bianchi had grown into a renowned manufacturer, boasting impressive production numbers of 45,000 bicycles, 1,500 motorcycles, and 1,000 automobiles in a single year. This industrial success mirrored Bianchi’s triumphs in competitive cycling. Bianchi bikes, easily recognizable by their signature “celeste” color, became synonymous with victory in races around the globe, cementing their place in cycling history.
Bianchi continued to innovate and adapt to changing trends in the cycling world. In 1982, recognizing the growing popularity of BMX, Bianchi introduced BMX bikes to the European market. These bikes, designed for off-road acrobatics, quickly became a hit with younger riders, further demonstrating Bianchi’s ability to stay ahead of cycling trends. Building on this success in off-road cycling, 1984 saw the launch of the Bianchi mountain bike, developed in collaboration with Bianchi USA. This move solidified Bianchi’s presence in the burgeoning mountain biking scene.
While embracing new categories like BMX and mountain bikes, Bianchi never lost sight of its road cycling heritage. However, the brand strategically focused on mountain bike challenges, recognizing the increasing popularity and demand in this segment. In 1995, Bianchi turned its attention to urban cyclists, launching the “City Project.” This initiative aimed to revolutionize city bikes by incorporating advanced frames designed with the latest ergonomic principles, enhancing comfort and efficiency for urban riders.
Bianchi Today: A Global Cycling Leader
Since 1997, F.I.V. Edoardo Bianchi has been part of the Cycleurope A.B. group, a Swedish company within the Grimaldi group and a major global player in the cycling industry. This integration brought together prestigious European cycling brands under one umbrella, with Bianchi serving as the flagship brand. Cycleurope’s strategic investments have focused on two key objectives: developing cutting-edge products and strengthening the Bianchi brand’s international presence.
Bianchi bikes remain incredibly popular today, offering a wide range of models to suit diverse cycling needs. Popular models like the Bianchi Pista, a super-light and fast track bike, and Bianchi’s Cortina, a comfortable and sporty city bike, exemplify the brand’s commitment to both performance and practicality. Whether you are looking for road bikes, city bikes, mountain bikes, track bikes, kids’ bikes, or electric bikes, Bianchi offers a model crafted with meticulous attention to detail and Italian passion.
For those seeking the best in European cycling, including exclusive limited-edition frames and custom builds, Bike Attack’s online bike shop and flagship store in Playa Vista is the premier destination. Bike Attack Playa Vista, the largest Bianchi flagship store in the US, showcases over 100 Bianchi models and serves cyclists in areas including Los Angeles, Culver City, and Beverly Hills. Explore the extensive range of Bianchi bikes at Bike Attack and experience the legacy of Italian cycling excellence for yourself.
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