Founded in 1997 by two RWTH Aachen mechanical engineering students. Started as online shop in shared flat, moved to Aachen city centre in 2000. Now has 200 employees and 70,000 components for 300,000 customers worldwide. Moved to 23,000 m² warehouse in Würselen since 2014
Rim is the outer edge of a wheel holding the tire. Forms "U" shape with deep center and shallow outer edges. Can be made from rectangular sheet metal or single piece
Axle connects wheels and provides support for bearings. Bottom bracket contains pedals and crankset with adjustable or cartridge bearings. Frame serves as mechanical core with various attachment points. Fork integrates frame to handlebars for steering
First bicycle chains were simple bushing-less designs. Nevoigt brothers introduced roller chain in 1898. Modern bushingless design incorporates bushings into inner side plates. First solid bush-roller patent filed by Renold Chain in 1880
Bike suffered significant damage including broken tank and bent parts. Author decided to strip off plastics and consider color change. Budget was limited but insured Arai allowed purchase of new parts
Bike designed for 2-3 hour mountain biking year-round. Recommended tyre pressure is 1.8 bar, minimum 1.6 bar. Handlebar comes in highest position, can be lowered for aerodynamics. Frame features quick release system for saddle adjustment