When we launched the YIWU, new bike brands were emerging with e-bikes that promise effortless speed, racing bikes crafted from carbon fiber, and models brimming with the latest tech. These bikes are designed to chase performance, but for most of us, that's not what we're after. Our whole life is already measured, analyzed and compared. We don't want to get the fastest segment in our area, or monitor endless data while riding. What we truly seek is something different. It’s the freedom of a morning commute where the world feels quiet and the air is crisp. It’s the joy of an unhurried weekend ride through familiar streets or new trails. It’s the comfort of a bike that simply feels right—a perfect blend of practicality, beauty, and timeless design.
Our inspiration
Where do you start when you want to create something that stands the test of time? You draw inspiration from designs that have endured, because they were thoughtfully crafted to balance form and function. We don’t aim to reinvent the wheel; instead, we refine it, guided by the wisdom of cycling’s golden eras. By blending this timeless inspiration with modern craftsmanship, we create bikes that feel as relevant today as they will decades from now.
This inspiration is clearly visible when looking at the frame of the YIWU. Our model channels the elegance and practicality of iconic 1970s and 1980s bicycles like the Cincelli Supercorsa or the Bianchi Rekord 748. It's clean, purposeful and embodies a philosophy that prioritizes the experience of the ride over short-term trends.
Creating the YIWU
The concept of the YIWU quickly emerged. The early conceptual sketches give a first impression of the design elements that would later define our flagship model.
Timeless design
Our design elements for a timeless piece: A clean, elegant frame with lugged forks, simple colors that blend seamlessly with the world around them, and sleek decals that introduce our brand subtly, without the need for large, bold logos.
To add a modern touch, we incorporated a straight handlebar that contrasts with the vintage curves of the frame, giving the YIWU Chrome its distinctive look. The beige vintage-inspired saddle and imitation cork grips complete the aesthetic, creating the charm of a classic bike while providing comfort and style.
Materials that last
Steel, often overshadowed by aluminum and carbon in the modern bicycle market, has earned its reputation as one of the most enduring materials for a bike. For the YIWU, we proudly chose a steel frame for its remarkable ability to absorb vibrations, offering a smooth and comfortable ride that enhances every journey.
But steel isn’t just about comfort—it’s about resilience and practicality. Steel frames are incredibly durable and, unlike other materials, can be repaired with ease. Bike mechanics have decades of experience working with steel frames and the tools to fix almost anything, making steel a dependable choice for riders who value longevity and the assurance that their bike can be restored when needed.
Components that make a difference
When designing the YIWU, we knew it had to be more than just beautiful—it needed to ride beautifully, too. Achieving this balance meant obsessing over the details, particularly the shifting and gearing system. For us, these components are not just functional parts; they’re the heart of how a bike feels on the road.
We envisioned a bike that adapts to its rider’s needs, whether tackling steep hills or cruising smoothly through city streets. After testing countless combinations, we landed on a configuration that offers an effortless ride for most terrains. The chosen 46T crankset pairs seamlessly with the Shimano Claris/ Tourney derailleurs and a 11-28 cassette. This combination ensures an ideal range of gears: low enough to power up steep inclines and high enough for swift commutes across flat urban landscapes. Pair it with a Tektro brake and 28-inch wheels and you have a dynamic bicycle that meets the diverse needs of riders in Switzerland, Germany and other European countries.
At the end of the day, every decision we made came back to one question: How can we create a bicycle that becomes part of your story? With the YIWU, we believe we’ve answered that question—a timeless bike that rides with you through life.
