If you’re researching Time Cycles—one of the most respected names in carbon bike manufacturing—you’ve likely asked yourself: who owns Time Cycles? The answer reveals a fascinating blend of French heritage, American leadership, and European craftsmanship that continues to shape some of the finest performance bikes in the world.
Who Owns Time Cycles?
Time Cycles is owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, an American company led by industry veterans Tony Karklins and Patrice Lemieux. Cardinal Cycling Group acquired Time in 2021 from the Rossignol Group, the French sporting goods company best known for its ski and outdoor brands.
This acquisition ensured that Time’s legacy of innovation, precision, and European manufacturing remained intact. Today, while ownership is U.S.-based, all of Time’s research, design, and production still take place in Europe—maintaining its identity as one of the last true European carbon specialists.
A Quick History of Time Cycles
Time was founded in 1987 by Roland Cattin in Nevers, France. The brand quickly became a pioneer in both clipless pedals and carbon frame construction. Through the 1990s and 2000s, Time bikes earned a reputation for their exceptional ride quality and craftsmanship—favored by professional riders in the Tour de France and other elite races.
Over the decades, Time introduced several groundbreaking technologies, most notably:
- Braided Carbon Structure (BCS): A process where carbon fibers are woven into tubular shapes, creating exceptional strength and responsiveness.
- Resin Transfer Molding (RTM): A precise carbon molding technique that improves consistency, stiffness, and comfort.
These proprietary methods remain exclusive to Time—setting it apart from other high-end brands that outsource frame production.
Cardinal Cycling Group: The Current Owner
Cardinal Cycling Group is a U.S.-based holding company focused on preserving and growing iconic cycling brands. Its co-founders, Tony Karklins and Patrice Lemieux, both have decades of experience in the cycling industry, with backgrounds in manufacturing, retail, and brand development.
When Cardinal acquired Time in 2021, their goal wasn’t to reinvent it—it was to protect its French DNA while helping the brand expand globally. Under their ownership, Time continues to:
- Design all bicycles in Voreppe, France.
- Manufacture carbon frames in Gajary, Slovakia.
- Maintain full control over the carbon production process.
This means that even under American ownership, Time Cycles remains 100% European-made.
Why the Ownership Change Strengthened the Brand
Time’s move from Rossignol to Cardinal Cycling Group was more than a business transaction—it was a revitalization. Under Cardinal, Time gained renewed investment in its R&D, marketing, and distribution, ensuring that more cyclists around the world can experience its craftsmanship.
The new ownership has focused on three key goals:
- Expanding accessibility: Time bikes are now easier to purchase internationally, particularly in North America.
- Modernizing the lineup: Introducing new models like the ADHX (Time’s first gravel bike) and updated Alpe d’Huez frames.
- Maintaining authenticity: Keeping carbon production in-house instead of outsourcing to Asia.
Where Time Cycles Operates Today
Although Cardinal Cycling Group owns the company, Time’s operations remain fully European. The brand is structured across two key locations:
- Voreppe, France: Headquarters, R&D, and frame design.
- Gajary, Slovakia: Manufacturing and finishing of carbon fiber frames using Time’s proprietary BCS and RTM methods.
This setup allows Time to retain the best of both worlds—French design and European manufacturing precision—with American investment driving its global growth.
What Time Cycles Ownership Means for Buyers
For riders considering a Time bike, the current ownership model is great news. It means:
- Uncompromised quality: All bikes remain hand-crafted in Europe using proprietary carbon technology.
- Better global support: Cardinal’s U.S. operations provide stronger customer service and availability worldwide.
- Continued innovation: New frames and technologies are being developed faster than ever before.
When you buy a Time, you’re not just buying a bike—you’re investing in decades of European expertise backed by American vision.
Verdict: Who Owns Time Cycles?
Time Cycles is owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, a U.S.-based company that continues to produce all Time bikes in Europe. The brand’s headquarters remain in France, while carbon frame production takes place in Slovakia. With Cardinal’s leadership, Time has entered a new era—combining French innovation, European craftsmanship, and American business strength to create some of the finest bicycles in the world.
FAQs
1. Who owns Time Cycles now?
Time Cycles is owned by Cardinal Cycling Group, an American company that purchased the brand from Rossignol in 2021.
2. Where are Time bikes made?
Time bikes are designed in France and manufactured in Gajary, Slovakia, at Time’s proprietary carbon fiber facility.
3. Does SRAM own Time?
No. SRAM owns the Time pedal division (Time Sport), while Cardinal Cycling Group owns the Time Cycles bicycle division. The two operate independently.
