Eurobike 2024 showcased a range of innovative bicycles from prominent manufacturers, with a spotlight on the handmade craftsmanship exhibited by Rotor Bikes, Alutech, Bike Ahead, and Crossworx.
Rotor Bikes: Established in Leipzig, Germany, in 1996, Rotor Bikes has evolved from a one-person operation to a team of five dedicated professionals. Specializing not only in crafting their own frames but also producing frames for other brands, Rotor Bikes offers an impressive array of products including cargo bikes, full-suspension bikes, and gravel bikes. Each bike can be customized with a regular drivetrain, Pinion gearbox, or geared hub. Among their offerings, the Heyerdahl hardtail stands out as a versatile trail and all-mountain option, tailored to individual preferences with personalized geometry adjustments available upon request.
Alutech: At Eurobike, Alutech unveiled the Pelmo, a standout in the all-mountain category. Weighing in at just 3.4 kg with 150 mm of front and rear travel, the Pelmo represents a significant innovation for Alutech, incorporating a design that accommodates a full-sized water bottle—an uncommon feature for their frames until now. Limited to a special edition of 10 frames, the Pelmo features meticulously polished welds that give it a seamless appearance reminiscent of single-piece construction. This model also introduces in-frame storage, featuring bags crafted from recycled airbags by Jürgen’s wife.
Bike Ahead: Known for their expertise in carbon fiber manufacturing, Bike Ahead showcased their latest creation, “The Frame,” at the Handmade Area. Collaboratively produced with Carbon Team in Portugal and meticulously finished in Germany, “The Frame” marks Bike Ahead’s first proprietary offering under their brand name. Weighing approximately 795 g for a size M frame, it supports riders up to 105 kg and boasts an updated design including internal cable routing and enhanced E-Bike ASTM 4 certification. The new Unit ICR model, a revision of their previous design, offers further refinements with increased lightness and updated features such as a new clamping mechanism and top cap.
Crossworx: Featuring the Crossworx Trip 290 light e-bike, Eurobike highlighted Crossworx’s innovative integration of the Bosch Performance Line SX motor. With 140 mm of travel front and rear, and an optional 250 Wh range extender, the Trip 290 combines robust performance with agility, featuring a steep 79° seat angle and a standard 65° head angle. Available in various frame sizes, the Trip 290 caters to diverse rider preferences with dimensions designed for optimal comfort and handling.
Eurobike 2024’s Handmade Area underscored the industry’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, showcasing bikes that blend advanced technology with bespoke craftsmanship to meet the diverse needs of cycling enthusiasts worldwide.