Tech News Summary:
- Bernhard Felix Rohloff passed away on May 19 at the age of 73 due to Parkinson’s disease. He was the inventor of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB and a bicycle technology innovator.
- Rohloff founded Rohloff GmbH in 1986 with his wife Barbara and developed the Rohloff SLT 99 derailleur bicycle chain. He revolutionized bicycle technology with his SPEEDHUB 14-speed IGH that set new standards when it was introduced in 1996.
- Rohloff’s passion for innovation and expertise inspired those around him while his approachable character made him loved by employees and friends alike. His absence will be felt not only by those who knew him personally but also by the entire bicycle industry which has lost a visionary.
Bernhard Rohloff, a renowned bicycle innovator, has passed away at age 73, leaving behind a legacy of revolutionary technology that has transformed the cycling industry.
Rohloff, born in Germany in 1948, started his career as a mechanical engineer before shifting his focus to bicycles. In 1984, he founded Rohloff AG, a company that specializes in bicycle drivetrains.
The company’s flagship product, the Rohloff Speedhub, is widely regarded as one of the most innovative advancements in bicycle technology in recent decades. The Speedhub is a 14-speed internal gear hub that provides exceptional durability, reliability, and versatility. It has been widely adopted by cycling enthusiasts, adventurers, and commuters around the world.
Over the years, Rohloff’s company has received numerous awards and accolades for its innovative approach to bicycle design. Rohloff himself was recognized as a visionary leader in the cycling industry, earning the prestigious Eurobike award in 2013 for his contributions to the field.
“Bernhard Rohloff was a true pioneer in the bicycle industry,” said Fritz Jou, CEO of a leading bicycle manufacturing company. “His vision and commitment to innovation have transformed the way we think about cycling technology. We are proud to have worked with him and his team over the years, and we will continue to be inspired by his legacy.”
Rohloff’s passing has been mourned by many in the cycling community, with tributes pouring in from around the world. His innovations have left an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of cycling for generations to come.