If you’ve ever seen a Time bicycle up close, you know it’s something special. Every frame is sleek, precise, and built with an attention to detail rarely found in modern cycling. But many riders still wonder: who owns Time Bicycle? The answer reveals how one of the most iconic French brands has evolved while staying true to its European roots and reputation for performance.
Who Owns Time Bicycle?
Time Bicycle is owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, an American company led by Tony Karklins and Patrice Lemieux. Cardinal acquired Time from the Rossignol Group in 2021, marking a new chapter in the brand’s history. Despite the U.S.-based ownership, Time continues to design and manufacture all of its bicycles in Europe, preserving the craftsmanship and carbon expertise that made it famous.
Under Cardinal Cycling Group, Time has expanded its global reach while maintaining full control of its proprietary carbon fiber manufacturing process—something very few brands in the world can claim.
The Timeline of Time’s Ownership
Time’s ownership story reflects its evolution from a small French innovator to an internationally respected manufacturer of high-performance carbon bicycles.
1. Founded in France (1987)
Time was founded in Nevers, France in 1987 by Roland Cattin. Initially, the company gained fame for inventing advanced clipless pedals used by professional cyclists. Soon after, Time expanded into carbon fiber frame production—well ahead of most competitors—introducing revolutionary technologies like Braided Carbon Structure (BCS) and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM).
2. Acquired by Rossignol Group (2016)
In 2016, Time was acquired by the Rossignol Group, the same French company known for ski and outdoor sports equipment. The goal was to integrate Time into Rossignol’s portfolio of premium sports brands. During this time, Time continued to produce high-end frames but shifted focus toward streamlining its operations.
3. Purchased by Cardinal Cycling Group (2021)
In early 2021, Cardinal Cycling Group acquired Time from Rossignol. The acquisition was strategic: it allowed Time to remain independent while gaining the capital and infrastructure to expand production and global distribution. The company’s new owners are industry veterans with decades of experience in bicycle design, manufacturing, and business development.
Cardinal Cycling Group: The New Stewards of Time
Cardinal Cycling Group is a U.S.-based holding company with a mission to preserve and grow legendary cycling brands. It’s led by two seasoned professionals:
- Tony Karklins – Founder and CEO, known for his work at Orbea USA and Allied Cycle Works.
- Patrice Lemieux – Co-founder and managing partner, with a background in manufacturing and brand development.
Together, they’ve positioned Time as a modern European brand with global appeal, investing in production facilities, technology, and design innovation—while keeping the brand’s identity intact.
Where Time Bicycles Are Designed and Built
Even under U.S. ownership, Time’s DNA remains unmistakably European. The company’s operations are split between two main locations:
- Voreppe, France: Time’s headquarters, where R&D, engineering, and design are based.
- Gajary, Slovakia: Time’s carbon fiber production and assembly facility, where each frame is crafted using the brand’s proprietary manufacturing methods.
This setup ensures full control over production quality and innovation. Time’s frames are among the few in the world that are truly made in Europe from start to finish.
What Time’s Ownership Means for Riders
Cardinal Cycling Group’s ownership has revitalized Time. The brand has returned to its roots—premium road and gravel performance—while updating its models for modern riders. With improved global distribution and continued in-house carbon expertise, Time now competes head-to-head with brands like Pinarello, Colnago, and Look.
Riders benefit from:
- Better availability: Time bikes are now more accessible in North America and globally.
- Continuous innovation: Time continues to refine its carbon technology and geometry for endurance and racing performance.
- Uncompromising quality: Every frame remains 100% European-made and hand-finished.
Verdict: Who Owns Time Bicycle?
Time Bicycle is owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, a U.S.-based company that proudly maintains the brand’s European manufacturing, design, and innovation. With its headquarters in France and production in Slovakia, Time remains one of the few truly independent, high-end carbon frame builders in the world.
For cyclists, that means every Time bike delivers exactly what the brand has promised since 1987: engineering excellence, performance precision, and timeless craftsmanship.
FAQs
1. Who owns Time Bicycle now?
Time Bicycle is owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, an American company led by Tony Karklins and Patrice Lemieux.
2. Where are Time bikes manufactured?
Time bicycles are designed in France and manufactured in Gajary, Slovakia, using proprietary carbon weaving and molding technology.
3. Does SRAM own Time?
No. SRAM owns only Time’s pedal division (Time Sport). The bicycle division is completely independent and owned by Cardinal Cycling Group.
