If you’ve been researching high-performance bicycles, you’ve probably come across Time—a brand known for its precision, carbon expertise, and unmistakably European design. But many riders wonder: is Time a French bike company? The short answer is yes—Time was born in France and continues to operate as one of the most technically advanced and authentic European cycling brands on the market.
Yes, Time Is a French Bike Company
Time is a French bike company founded in 1987 by Roland Cattin in Nevers, France. The brand quickly became a pioneer in two areas that changed cycling forever: carbon fiber frame technology and clipless pedals. From the Tour de France to modern gravel races, Time’s influence is deeply rooted in French engineering excellence and performance innovation.
Today, Time still designs, develops, and tests its bicycles in France, preserving the same commitment to quality and precision that made it a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Time’s French Heritage and European Production
While Time is a French brand, it has expanded its manufacturing footprint within Europe. The company’s headquarters and R&D center are based in Voreppe, France, near Grenoble—a region famous for its cycling culture and alpine engineering expertise.
Its carbon frames, however, are crafted in Gajary, Slovakia, at Time’s proprietary European carbon facility. This ensures the brand retains complete control over quality and production, something few other manufacturers can claim. Time’s use of in-house technologies like Braided Carbon Structure (BCS) and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) reflects a level of craftsmanship that’s become synonymous with French design philosophy—precision, performance, and beauty.
Why Time’s French Identity Still Matters
Being a French company isn’t just about location—it’s about heritage and philosophy. France has a long, passionate relationship with cycling, from the early days of the Tour de France to the modern era of endurance and performance riding. Time embodies this culture in three key ways:
- Attention to detail: Every frame is meticulously engineered, reflecting French precision craftsmanship.
- Innovation-first mindset: Time was among the first brands to experiment with custom carbon layups and frame geometry for comfort and stiffness.
- Timeless aesthetics: Clean lines, elegant design, and balanced geometry showcase France’s design sensibility.
When you buy a Time, you’re not just purchasing a bike—you’re owning a piece of French cycling artistry.
Who Owns Time Today?
Although Time remains a French brand at its core, it’s currently owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, a U.S.-based company led by Tony Karklins and Patrice Lemieux. They acquired Time from the Rossignol Group in 2021.
Despite this international ownership, Time continues to operate as a European manufacturer, with French headquarters and production facilities within the EU. The new ownership simply gives the brand the financial backing to reach more global riders—without sacrificing its French DNA.
French Engineering Meets Modern Performance
Time’s French heritage shines through in every model they make. Whether you’re racing, climbing, or exploring gravel, each frame delivers an elegant mix of stiffness, comfort, and control.
Some of Time’s most popular models include:
- Alpe d’Huez: A lightweight road bike built for climbing and endurance.
- ADHX: A performance gravel bike that blends road efficiency with off-road capability.
- Scylon: Time’s aerodynamic road bike for riders chasing speed.
These bikes don’t just perform—they feel French, with a ride quality that reflects decades of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Verdict: Is Time a French Bike Company?
Yes—Time is 100% a French bike company. It was founded in France, is headquartered in France, and maintains its R&D and design teams there. Even with American ownership, its production and innovation remain deeply rooted in Europe. Time represents the best of French cycling culture—innovation, performance, and timeless elegance—all woven together with carbon fiber mastery.
FAQs
1. Is Time still a French company?
Yes. Time remains headquartered in France, where it designs and develops all its bicycles. Manufacturing takes place in its European carbon facility in Slovakia.
2. Who owns Time bicycles now?
Time is owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, a U.S.-based company that acquired the brand from the Rossignol Group in 2021. Despite the ownership change, Time’s operations and craftsmanship remain European.
3. Where are Time bikes made?
Time bikes are designed in France and manufactured in Gajary, Slovakia—a facility owned and operated by the company, ensuring full control over quality and performance.
