October 20, 2022 - Canadian global leader Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP) has acquired German drive system manufacturer Pinion GmbH and effectively has entered the bicycle and e-bike market worldwide.

Founded in 2008 by Michael Schmitz and Christoph Lermen, Pinion GmbH quickly established a following. By 2015, around 50 bicycle manufacturers were using their 9-, 12-, and 18-speed maintenance-free gearbox systems. 

In 2018, Thomas Raith joined the company that is currently based in Denkendorf near Stuttgart as the third managing director. At this point, more than 100 bicycle manufacturers from around the world were on board.

In mid-July, Stromer, based in Switzerland, introduced the ST7 as the world’s first e-bike with Pinion’s Smart Shift Technology.

BRP employs nearly 20,000 people worldwide, and its portfolio includes Rotax and Great Wall Motor Austria powertrain systems, in addition to snowmobiles (Skidoo), personal watercraft, on- and off-road vehicles, as well as pontoons and boats. With annual sales of CA$7.6 billion in more than 120 countries, BRP is now the new majority shareholder, alongside Pinion’s founders and managing directors. 

“Beyond our existing powersports and marine products, we are expanding our addressable market and entering untapped categories such as urban mobility and services,” said José Boisjoli, President and CEO of BRP. “This acquisition is strategic for us, as it enables BRP to leverage Pinon’s unique, state-of-the-art technology in order to spur the development of new electric human-assisted products. We are pleased to welcome the Pinion team.”