According to H+B Hightech they aim, “to raise the bike technology to a new level”. The company will develop gear hubs and other bike components. Their very first hub will be presented at this year’s Eurobike.
Compatibility
The new gear hub is compatible with all common thru axles and quick releases, so it can be integrated into almost any bicycle. H+B Hightech reports that, “thanks to its high efficiency and a gear ratio of 554 %, the hub is ideal for specifying it in touring bikes and mountain bikes. The high input torque of 250 Nm makes the hub very suitable for e-bikes and cargobikes with powerful motors.”
Not a supplier only
How did metalworking company H+B Hightech get involved in the bicycle sector? According to marketing manager Simone Boin, they have been active in the automotive industry for quite some time: “In 2020, we had our first contact with the bicycle industry. We also want to use our new hub to present ourselves to the industry as a developer and not a supplier.”
Automated assembly line in Germany
Simone Boin emphasises that “all development and assembly will be done in-house in Adelmannsfelden, Germany. The few parts that we have to buy are sourced exclusively from Germany.” The company wants to highlight the benefits of ‘Made in Germany’ production in times of supply problems. In addition, it will roll-out a fully automated assembly line which will start very soon. According to the plan, the company will deliver its first production series from the second quarter of 2023. Nicolai Bicycles is the first OEM to specify its 2023 Argon GX Slide gravel bike with a nine speed hub and twist grip.
The bike technology section on H+B Hightech’s website will show a teaser shortly before the start of Eurobike. The company will exhibit in in Hall 8.0 / I21.