Cinelli is an Italian bicycle manufacturing company based in Milan, Italy, producing mostly road bicycles and components; production is estimated at 80% components, 20% bicycles. Cinelli has a reputation for quality in design and production similar to Italy's other famous bicycle marques.
History
Cinelli was founded in 1948 by Cino Cinelli, a former professional road racer and president of the Italian National Cyclist's Association. The presidency of the company passed to Antonio Colombo, owner of Columbus tubing, in 1978. In 1997 Cinelli became a division of Gruppo SpA.
Cinelli Super Corsa and Special Corsa bicycles built before the sale to Columbus are renowned for having a "magic carpet ride". The Cinelli Super Corsa is virtually unchanged since its introduction and may well be the longest running production bicycle (1948-present.)
Cinelli today is known for its sometimes outrageous bicycles and bicycle components. The company regards itself as being the first Italian company to embrace mountain biking.
Innovative products
- Binda toe-straps (Acquire by Cinelli - 1058)
- Internal Sloping fork crown (1950?)
- Unicanitor saddle (1962 - from acquisition of Unica SpA, makers of Unica - Nitor saddle)) The first plastic-bodied saddle.
- Bivalent Hub (1960?) - After removal the freewheel stays attached to the frame; front and rear wheels are therefore interchangeable.
- M71 Pedal (1971) The first quick release clipless pedal. (ref. 1971 Cinelli Catalog)
- Cinelli Model 1R stem with hidden clamp bolt (1971, ref Catalog M71, above).
- Laser (1980) Track pursuit and time trial model which pioneered a new aerodynamic aesthetic and TiG welding in bicycle frames.
- Rampichino (1985) The first mountain bike made in Italy
- Cork Ribbon (1987) More comfortable handlebar tape
External links
de:Cinelli