Bicycle technologies innovator Bernhard Rohloff, 73, dies

(BRAIN) — Bicycle technologies innovator Bernhard Felix Rohloff, inventor of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB, died on May possibly 19, according to the enterprise he founded. Rohloff, who suffered from Parkinson’s illness, was 73.

Rohloff grew up in Kassel, Germany, and started a extended technical profession with an apprenticeship as an workplace machine mechanic at Olympia. In 1986, he founded Rohloff GmbH with wife Barbara. As technical director, he created the Rohloff S-L-T 99 derailleur bicycle chain.

The recognition of the S.L.T 99 chain grew as did the Rohloff solution variety to incorporate bicycle tools.

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 14-speed IGH was introduced in 1996, an innovation that “set new requirements to this really day,” according to a Rohloff enterprise obituary. “But all that aside, Bernie was significantly extra than just a brilliant inventor. He was an inspiring character who could not only impress with his knowledge, but also respected and had time for the suggestions and issues of his staff. It is this humanity which produced him a part model persons trusted and had been content to comply with.

“Bernie leaves a void which merely can’t be filled. With him, the bicycle market not only loses a visionary, but also an exceptionally warm and approachable character. The company’s staff and mates will miss his sincere and humorous manner — a trait which never ever failed to bring a smile to your face.”

To send condolences, e-mail: abschied@rohloff.de. Address: Rohloff AG, Mönchswiese 11, 34233 Fuldatal, Germany.