Cinelli

Cinelli was founded in 1948 by ex-professional rider Cino Cinelli. Whilst he won the 1943 Milan-San Remo, he will be best remembered for founding Cinelli and for the bicycle parts he invented: the first aluminium handlebars, the first seat with a plastic core, the first pedal straps and the first quick release pedals. Having built a reputation for innovation, the company passed over to Antonio Colombo in 1978, the owner of Columbus tubing. This saw the start of Cinelli's vision and dominance of the bicycle world. Under Colombo's leadership, Cinelli products have been used by Lemond, Fignon and Hinault, not to mention Lance Armstrong and Mario Cipollini.

Cinelli have go on to invent the now-banned Spinaci extensions and maybe most importantly, the Laser. The Laser, which did away with joints and introduced TIG welding for street-bike frames was the only Italian bicycle to win the Compasso d’Oro (1991) design award, as well as over 28 gold medals at Olympic Games and World Championships. The Laser remains one of the most beautiful and sort after bikes in the world.

Cinelli haven't rested on their laurels in recent years, continuing to innovate with products like the Ram handlebar, and collaborating with artist and designers like Mike Giant and the MASH team.