Right now, SRAM formally publicizes its acquisition of Ochain, including one more model underneath its umbrella. Based in 2019, Ochain’s distinctive lively chainring spiders have rapidly gained recognition and turn out to be fairly frequent on downhill and enduro bikes of each execs and amateurs alike. Now, the model has extra backing and assets whereas “preserving the Ochain crew, tradition, and placement. This enables them to proceed growing their merchandise whereas preserving their distinctive id and legacy of the model.” Based on SRAM.
After watching downhill racers break chains and carry out effectively on sure programs with out them, Ochain’s founder, Fabrizio Dragoni, grew to become considering making a system that supplied a “chainless” really feel whereas nonetheless sustaining the power to pedal. The consequence was Ochain, an modern chainring spider that permits various levels of free rotation with the aim of decreasing pedal kickback and the drivetrain’s affect on suspension efficiency.Â
We first reported on Ochain again in 2020, however Italian DH racer Loris Rivelli began racing with it in 2019. “It’s onerous to elucidate till you trip it — the bike feels prefer it floats extra, like butter over rocks.” stated Rivelli, “Now, I run Ochain on each bike I personal, even my e-bike — it’s that good.” The advantages of Ochain haven’t gone unnoticed, with loads of different World Cup Downhill and Enduro racers including the gadget to their bikes in an effort to raised separate drivetrain and suspension forces and go quicker on the race monitor.
Over time, the model has continued growing, bettering, and increasing its product choices, together with choices just like the Ochain E for eMTBs and including exterior changes with the Ochain R. And whereas the product was initially designed for downhill racing, it has turn out to be clear that virtually any full suspension bike might doubtlessly profit from it. Based on SRAM, “Now, you’ll discover it on all the things from downhill race rigs to long-travel e-bikes and even light-weight path bikes.”
That rising recognition is probably going one of many essential causes SRAM acquired Ochain, nevertheless it appears like efficiency was one other. “We began enthusiastic about methods to make descending higher via drivetrain improvement,” stated Flynn George, Product Supervisor at SRAM. “We discovered that Ochain delivered unmatched enhancements in traction, stability, and trip really feel. It quiets down the chassis, decreasing auditory suggestions and pedal suggestions. On the path, meaning improved traction and management.”
The acquisition of Ochain is simply the most recent in SRAM’s rising portfolio of element manufacturers. Through the years, the model has added RockShox, Zipp, Truvativ, and we reported on the acquisition of Quarq means again in 2011. Among the more moderen strategic acquisitions are the addition of TIME pedals, Hammerhead computer systems, and Velocio attire. Primarily based on SRAM’s acquisition monitor report, that is removed from the tip for Ochain. Extra assets ought to assist drive innovation and take the model to new heights. I wouldn’t be shocked if we see totally built-in Ochain cranksets within the not-too-distant future.
Based on the data we’ve obtained, Ochain will proceed to function roughly independently from SRAM, with Dragoni remaining on the helm. The recognizable Ochain title isn’t going wherever, nevertheless it sounds just like the model will likely be transferring into a brand new facility in Italy. Gross sales will even proceed as regular, with elements bought straight via the Ochain web site or licensed sellers. And, importantly, we’re advised that along with SRAM cranksets, Ochain spiders will stay obtainable for Shimano and Race Face cranksets and Bosch and Brose eMTB drive models.
Extra info on SRAM’s acquisition of Ochain might be discovered on the SRAM web site. To be taught extra about Ochain merchandise or choose one up for your self, take a look at the model’s web site.
