Article updated on 2024-02-06
The world of bicycles is somewhat similar to that of cars. Many manufacturers offer high-quality, reliable models, but each has its style and characteristics. Some excel in time-tested quality, comfort, and maximum safety, others in technological innovation, lightness, and speed, and still others in reliability, simplicity, and low prices.
Similar rules apply in the bicycle industry. Each manufacturer and brand has its history, identity, and clearly expressed values. Consumers always buy a bit more than just a bike—they purchase a vision, a goal, and a character.
Some of the most popular bicycle manufacturers in both the world and Lithuania are Specialized (USA), BMC (Switzerland), Trek (USA), 3T (Italy), Argon18 (Canada), BH Bikes (Spain), KUbikes (Germany), and others. How do they differ, what are they loved and valued for, and what are the main advantages of each?
Specialized: Innovation Leader in Bicycle Manufacturing
Specialized (USA) was founded in 1974 in California. The company's founders were cycling enthusiasts who were driven by this idea—cyclists designing for other cyclists. Following this principle, the company soon became a leader in its field.
Currently, the market offers popular Specialized bicycle models such as:
- Specialized mountain bikes – Epic, Chisel, Rockhopper, Stumpjumper, Enduro.
- Specialized gravel bikes – Diverge, Crux.
- Specialized road bikes – Tarmac, Aethos, Allez, Roubaix.
- Specialized hybrid bikes – Sirrus, Crossroads.
- Specialized electric bikes – Turbo Levo, Turbo Vado, Turbo Creo, Turbo Como, Turbo Kenevo, Turbo Tero.
Many people think that the Specialized S-Works brand is a separate manufacturer, but S-Works is the same Specialized, only with a lighter frame made using a special technology and top-level components.
Specialized is known not only for its exceptional quality but also for its network of specialized stores. It consists of 9 categories of stores, with the highest category being the exclusive Concept or Elite stores. These stores offer various services such as bike testing, repairs, expert advice, and the professional Retül fitting test.
In Vilnius, you can find such a store at Baltrušaičio g. 1, where the Retül fitting test is also performed.
This test helps to prevent common cyclist injuries. Read more about chronic cyclist injuries here.
BMC: The Synonym of Speed and Design in the Cycling World
BMC (Switzerland) was founded in 1986. In its early years, the company's direction crystallized—special attention to speed and design, and the company set itself the goal of becoming the equivalent of Porsche in the cycling world. Soon, BMC became a unique brand. Their bikes are known for being fast, elegant, and unstoppable. Professional racers riding BMC bikes have won races such as the Tour de France, Tour de Romandie, Tour de Wallonie, Paris-Tours, and others.
In 2019, next to the Impec research and development laboratory, Adicta Lab was established with the goal of implementing sustainable development principles in the field of bicycle manufacturing and sports, making both the production of bicycles and cycling environmentally friendly.
Some of the most popular BMC bikes are:
3T: The Symbol of Italian Craftsmanship in Innovative Bicycles
3T (Italy) was founded in 1961 in Italy, initially known as "Tecnologia del Tubo Torino". It is a bicycle manufacturing company distinguished by its innovation and quality. It began its activity focused on the production of high-tech bicycle components, later becoming known for its lightweight and aerodynamic gravel bikes. These bikes combine flexibility and performance, allowing the rider to comfortably navigate both city streets and unpaved roads.
One of the most impressive achievements of 3T is the "3T Made in Italia" bicycle line. These bikes are hand-made in Italy, reflecting the company's commitment to high quality and craftsmanship. The hand-made process ensures each bike's uniqueness and the highest quality, while the "Made in Italy" label undoubtedly adds prestige.
3T bicycles are designed for both professionals and amateurs. Their distinctive design and style undoubtedly attract attention. These are not just means of transportation; they are symbols of style and personal expression.
Popular 3T models such as the "3T Exploro RaceMax" and "3T Ultra" are known for their versatile design and high performance. The "3T Exploro RaceMax" is ideal for those looking for a bike that suits various conditions, from fast roads to unpaved trails. Meanwhile, the "3T Ultra" is designed with professional cyclists in mind, providing top speed and efficiency.
Open Cycle: A Blend of Minimalism and Innovation
Open Cycle (Switzerland) is an innovative bicycle manufacturing company founded by industry veterans Gerard Vroomen and Andy Kessler. They aimed to create bicycles that are simple, lightweight, and efficient, suitable for both racing and adventure. Open Cycle specializes in gravel bikes, utilizing the latest technologies and materials, such as high-quality carbon fiber, to ensure lightness, strength, and reliability.
Their philosophy is based on minimalism and functionality, removing everything unnecessary and leaving only what ensures the best performance and comfort. This means Open bikes are perfectly suited for both intense racing and long journeys on unknown roads.
One of the most well-known Open models is the "UP" (Unbeaten Path), known for its versatility and ability to ride on various surfaces—from asphalt to dirt. Open Cycle continuously seeks innovation and collaborates with other industry leaders to improve their products and meet the highest consumer expectations.
Cannondale: Performance and Comfort for Every User
Cannondale (USA) is one of the leading bicycle manufacturing companies, founded in 1971 in the United States. This company is known for its innovative approach to bicycle design and manufacturing, creating bikes for both professionals and amateurs.
Cannondale is known for its advanced technologies, such as revolutionary carbon fiber and aluminum frames, unique suspension system solutions, and top-quality components. One example of Cannondale's innovation is the "Lefty" fork—a unique single-strut front fork that provides impeccable handling and efficiency.
Their range includes mountain, road, city, hybrid, gravel and kids' bikes, each designed to meet the highest expectations for performance, comfort, and style. Cannondale is committed not only to producing top-class bicycles but also to promoting cycling culture and community worldwide.
The Trail series is designed for mountain bike enthusiasts, offering great value for money and excellent riding properties.
Trek: Top-Class Bicycle Engineering and Design
Trek (USA) was founded in 1975. The company grew slowly but steadily, with the biggest breakthrough happening in 1985 when Trek began collaborating with the aviation industry and applied a series of various technological innovations.
In 1991, Trek started using exclusive lightweight carbon fiber in its manufacturing, called OCLV (Optimum Compaction Low Void). For the production of aluminum frames, the company uses exclusive quality Alpha aluminum.
Trek operates on the principle that a bicycle is a simple solution to many problems, and their mission is to improve bicycles, increase their popularity and accessibility, and thus strive for positive changes in society.
Some of the most popular Trek bikes are Marlin mountain bikes, Dual Sport fitness bikes and FX, and the Madone road bike.
Argon 18: Exceptional Details and Aerodynamics in Bicycle Design
Argon 18 (Canada) began operations in 1989, and today, Argon 18 bikes are sold in 70 countries worldwide. The company's operating principle is attention to detail—both technologically and in design—which makes the manufacturer's bikes exceptional.
Argon 18 bicycles are aerodynamic and ergonomic, easily overcoming challenges and maximizing safety, with a modern design suitable for both amateurs and professionals.
The most popular Argon 18 models are the E-119 Tri+ and E-118 Tri+ triathlon bikes.
Among road bikes, the best-known are the Argon 18 Gallium models.
Kubikes: The Joy of Riding for Children
KUbikes (Germany) was founded in 2014 when two brothers, Jonas and Hannes Kuisle, couldn't find suitable bikes for their children and decided to start making them themselves. The brothers wanted the bikes to better meet children's needs, provide the joy of riding, and simply be lighter. Such bikes are easier for parents to carry into storage or an apartment, and easier for children to pick up speed.
Today, KUbikes specializes in making bikes for children and teenagers, and their exceptionally lightweight aluminum frames remain their distinctive characteristic.
BH Bikes: A Century of Experience and Quality Tradition
BH Bikes (Spain) is one of the longest-running bicycle manufacturers. BH began as a family business back in 1909, and BH are the initials of one of the family members, Bestegui Hermanos. Initially, the family engaged in other activities, but in 1923, after World War I, when the demand for cheap transportation was rapidly growing, they started making bicycles.
BH is not a newcomer to the market—over more than a hundred years, people's needs and technologies have changed, and the company has changed along with them. This is the company's biggest distinction.
BH Bikes makes reliable, high-quality bicycles that belong to the mid-price range. These bikes are chosen by those who want quality but are not inclined to splurge.
Some of the most popular BH Bikes models are the Gravel X and the Ultimate mountain bike.
In our assortment, you will find many bicycles: mountain bikes, gravel bikes, road bikes, hybrid bikes, electric bikes, triathlon bikes, kids' bikes, and balance bikes. You will also find scooters for children and adults at Velonova bike store.
For travelers, we offer car bike racks, roof boxes, bike trailers, sport strollers, and child seats for bikes.
We also have a wide range of bike parts, cycling clothing, and many bike accessories.
Move, travel, choose, and stay healthy with Velonova.
