Rene Herse Cycles
- Company typePrivate
- Founded1938
- HeadquartersSeattle, United States
- Headcount11–50
- GTM typeB2C
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
Rene Herse Cycles firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Rene Herse Cycles
- Legal name
- Rene Herse Cycles
- Website
- https://renehersecycles.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 1938
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 11–50 employees
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Rene Herse Cycles industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Bicycle Components and Tires
- NAICS
- Motorcycle, Bicycle, and Parts Manufacturing (336991), Automotive Parts, Accessories, and Tire Retailers (4413), Tire Manufacturing (except Retreading) (326211)
- SIC
- Motorcycles, Bicycles & Parts (3751), Tires & Inner Tubes (3011)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Cycling & Bike Retail (Sales, Service & Accessories) (CRAMABAH)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Bike Accessories Retail (Lights, Locks, Racks, Bags) (CRAMAHAD), Bike Apparel, Helmets & Protective Gear Retail (CRAMAHAC), Bicycle Tires & Tubes Manufacturing (IMANAKAG)
Keywords
Where Rene Herse Cycles is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Seattle
- HQ country
- United States
- HQ region
- North America
Offices1 record
Markets served
Rene Herse Cycles business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2C
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- Direct Product Sales: Primary revenue through direct-to-consumer e-commerce sales of tires, components, and equipment. Products include tires in multiple sizes (700C, 650B, 26"), bottom brackets, cranks, brakes, derailleurs, handlebars, headsets, hubs, pedals, rims, saddles, stems, bags, clothing, fenders, lights, racks, and tools. Pricing ranges from entry-level accessories to premium components.
- Wholesale Distribution: Revenue through wholesale accounts to independent bike shops worldwide. Shops purchase at wholesale pricing to resell to end consumers. The company mentions working with more than 700 shops globally.
- Bicycle Quarterly Subscriptions and Publications: Sale of Bicycle Quarterly magazine subscriptions (print), single copies, and books. The publication is described as part of the company's mission to share their passion for cycling.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Tires - Standard All-Road Models |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Tires - Premium/Gravel Models |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Tubular Tires |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Bottom Brackets |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Cranksets |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Brakes |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Derailleurs |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Generator Hubs |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Fenders |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Lights |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Stems |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels2 records
Marketing channels6 records
Rene Herse Cycles product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Rene Herse Cycles designs, sources, and sells premium bicycle tires (including 700C/29", 650B/27.5", 26", and FMB tubulars) alongside a full lineup of cycling components (cranks, brakes, derailleurs, handlebars, headsets, hubs, pedals, rims, saddles, stems) and equipment (bags, fenders, racks, lights, framebuilding parts, apparel). The company also publishes the Bicycle Quarterly magazine and offers a Tire Pressure Calculator tool developed with Cal Poly Pomona engineering. Products are sold direct-to-consumer via renehersecycles.com and through a global network of independent bike shops.
Product overview
Rene Herse Cycles is a specialty bicycle components company offering a comprehensive portfolio of premium cycling products. The core offering centers on Rene Herse tires (700C/29", 650B/27.5", 26"), including all-road, dual-purpose knobby, and semi-slick designs available in multiple casings (Extralight, Standard, Endurance, Endurance Plus). The company also offers FMB tubular tires and tube/sealant accessories. Components include SKF bottom brackets, Rene Herse cranks and brakes (cantilever, centerpull), the Nivex analog derailleur system, handlebars, needle bearing headsets, SON generator hubs, MKS pedals, Velocity rims, Berthoud saddles, and stems/decaleurs. Equipment encompasses traditional cotton duck and leather bags, Nitto bottle cages, cycling clothing (caps, jerseys, Merino items), Rene Herse aluminum fenders (smooth, hammered, fluted), framebuilding components (Kaisei tubesets, fork blades), SON and Busch & Müller generator lights, and bicycle racks. The company also publishes Bicycle Quarterly and offers a Tire Pressure Calculator 3.0 tool developed with Cal Poly Pomona. Classic Herse restoration parts are available for vintage bicycle preservation. Products are sold direct-to-consumer and through a network of 700+ independent bike shops worldwide.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- Bicycle Quarterly: A publication/magazine focused on cycling performance, routes, and the cycling community
Products and services
- Rene Herse Tires - 700C / 29" All-road and gravel tires for 700C/29" wheels, available in multiple tread patterns including chevron, dual-purpose knobbies, and semi-slicks. Sizes range from 26mm to 55mm with four casing options (Extralight, Standard, Endurance, Endurance Plus). All tires with 'TC' designation are tubeless-compatible. Targeted at performance cyclists and gravel riders.
- Rene Herse Tires - 650B / 27.5" All-road and gravel tires designed for 650B/27.5" wheels, featuring smooth all-road treads and knobby dual-purpose treads. Tubeless-compatible models marked with 'TC' designation.
- Rene Herse Tires - 26" Tires designed for 26" wheels, including models for classic mountain bikes transformed into gravel machines. Features Standard, Extralight, Endurance, and Endurance Plus casings.
- FMB Tubular Tires Premium tubular tires manufactured by FMB in Brittany, France. Available in road, cyclocross, and gravel variants with silk, cotton, or reinforced casings for different levels of suppleness and durability.
- Tire Tubes and Sealant Includes TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) tubes that are faster, stronger, lighter, and pack smaller than butyl tubes. Also offers butyl tubes, tubeless sealant, and tire installation tools.
- SKF Bottom Brackets Premium bottom brackets featuring SKF bearings, the world leader in bearing technology. Available in JIS and ISO square taper, ISIS, French thread, and Italian threaded variants. Backed by a 10-year warranty including bearings.
- Rene Herse Brakes Rim brakes including cantilever brakes, centerpull brakes (direct mount and bolt-on), and Rinko-specific centerpull brakes. Lighter than disc brakes with better feel and modulation, featuring forged construction and optimized geometries.
- Rene Herse Cranks Three-arm cranks featuring net-shaped forged construction for ultimate strength. Available as One-By, 9-12 speed double, triple, single speed/fixed gear, and tandem configurations. Compatible with 24-52 tooth chainrings and includes ultra-hard 7075 chainrings.
- Nivex Derailleur System Analog rear and front derailleurs that provide a direct mechanical connection from lever to derailleur. Includes 9-11 speed and 6-8 speed rear derailleurs, direct-lever front derailleur, shift levers, and associated cables and tensioners.
- Rene Herse Handlebars Handlebars with generous curves supporting multiple hand positions for long hours on the road. Available in Randonneur and Professional models in 31.8mm and 25.4mm clamp diameters, with widths ranging from 37-50cm.
- Rene Herse Headsets Needle bearing headsets designed to last the life of the bike. Options include Ultimate (inverted bearings for braking resistance), Ultimate Rinko (circlips for fork removal), and Low-Stack (direct replacement) models, all in 1" sizing.
- SON Generator Hubs Generator hubs from SON including SONdelux, SON 28, and SL variants. Available in quick release and thru-axle configurations with disc brake and rim brake compatibility. Powers lights without battery concerns.
- MKS Pedals Premium pedals from MKS, the world's best pedal manufacturer. Includes RX-1, Sylvan Next Touring (dual-sided), Sylvan Next Road/Track (single-sided), and Allways models. Top-of-the-line versions feature ultra-smooth cartridge bearings and Rinko quick releases.
- Velocity Rims and Sapim Components Velocity A23 rims in 700C, 650B, and 26" sizes for rim brake applications. Also includes Sapim Laser double-butted spokes and Polyax nipples in brass and aluminum.
- Berthoud Saddles and Nitto Seatposts Berthoud leather saddles made from finest quality leather with composite underframes for flex and shock absorption. Available in Narrow (Galibier), Medium (Aravis/Aspin), Wide (Aubisque), and women's models. Nitto S65 and S83 seatposts also available.
- Rene Herse Stems and Decaleurs Aluminum and steel stems with decaleurs for handlebar bag stabilization. Includes Rene Herse Aluminum Stem, Nitto NP and Technomic stems, and various decaleur options that allow quick bag removal while keeping it secure.
- Classic Herse Restoration Parts Spare parts for classic Rene Herse and other constructeur bicycles. Includes decals, chains, cantilever brakes, stems, chainrings, braze-ons, rack tabs, and LED taillight retrofits that are interchangeable with original parts.
- Bicycle Bags and Luggage Traditional cotton duck and leather bags including handlebar roll bags, organizer bags, musette bags, and cyclotouring handlebar bags. Materials are lighter, more durable, and naturally waterproof when wet.
- Cycling Clothing Performance cycling apparel including organic cotton caps, ultralight jerseys (Rene Herse x Velocio collaboration), Merino wool trainer sweaters, long sleeve jerseys, tights, and limited edition tenugui towels.
- Rene Herse Fenders Extra-long front fenders available in smooth, hammered, and fluted aluminum styles. Designed to eliminate spray and last decades. Available in black or polished aluminum for 700C, 650B, and 26" wheels with tire clearance from 25mm to 60mm.
- Framebuilding Components Custom steel bike building parts including Kaisei tubesets (Superlight, Mule OS, Oversize), fork blades (Toei Special, Continental, Round), bottom bracket shells, fork crowns, and top tubes. Custom-drawn to Rene Herse specifications.
- Generator Lights Sophisticated bicycle lighting powered by SON generator hubs. Includes SON Ladelux headlights with high/low beam and USB charging, SON Edelux II headlights, and taillights from SON and Busch & Müller with advanced beam shaping.
- Bicycle Racks Superlight, ultra-stiff front and rear racks including CP-1 (centerpull brake compatible), UD-1 Disc, UD-2 Cantilever, and M-13 wide rack. Designed to support handlebar bags and carry loads with predictable handling.
- Tire Pressure Calculator 3.0 Proprietary tire pressure calculator developed with Cal Poly Pomona engineering department. Recommends optimal tire pressure based on tire width, rider/bike weight, terrain, casing type, rim specifications, and bike type. Features tire finder and supports both tubes and tubeless setups.
- Bicycle Quarterly Publication Quarterly cycling magazine covering technical information, tire testing, and bicycle performance research. Available via subscription (print), wholesale, single copies, and related books.
Quantifiable outcome
- Tire pressure recommendations based on actual performance data from Cal Poly Pomona engineering research
- +1 more outcomes
Companies that use Rene Herse Cycles
Customer profileNamed customers2 records
Segments5 records
Ideal customer profiles5 records
Rene Herse Cycles technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed No
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature6 records
Rene Herse Cycles partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
17 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.
- FMB (F. Michelin Breton)coreFMB makes tubular tires in their workshop in Brittany, France. They produce road tubulars with silk or cotton casings for different degrees of suppleness, and reinforced green casing for cross racing. This is the exclusive source for FMB tubulars sold through Rene Herse.
- SKFcoreSKF is the world leader in bearings and supplies bottom brackets to Rene Herse. Their full know-how is applied to these components, with SKF bottom brackets featuring a 10-year warranty including bearings.
- SON (Schmidt's Original Nabendynamo)coreSON produces generator hubs that Rene Herse resells. Models include SONdelux, SON 28 in various configurations. These hubs are a key part of the company's lighting and electrical ecosystem.
- MKS (Miyoku Seiko)coreMKS makes pedals sold through Rene Herse, specifically their top-of-the-line models equipped with ultra-smooth cartridge bearings. EZY-Superior models feature Rinko quick releases for tool-free removal.
- NittocoreNitto supplies handlebars, stems, and bottle cages to Rene Herse. Their products include Randonneur handlebars, NP and Technomic stems, and stainless steel polished bottle cages.
- KaiseicoreKaisei produces custom-drawn frame tubes to Rene Herse specifications in Japan. Products include Superlight, Mule (OS down tube), and Oversize tubesets, plus fork blades including 'Toei Special' and 'Continental' varieties.
- VelocitycoreVelocity rims are sold through Rene Herse, including the A23 model in 700C, 650B, and 26-inch sizes. These rims are designed for consistent tire fit and proven over years of challenging rides.
- HonjominorHonjo produces fender L-bracket mounts that are sold through Rene Herse.
- BerthoudcoreBerthoud supplies premium leather saddles with composite underframes, including Galibier, Aravis/Aspin, and Aubisque models. Saddles are fully rebuildable with available spare parts.
- VelociominorCollaboration on ultralight cycling jerseys for men and women, combining Velocio's apparel expertise with Rene Herse branding.
- ApiduraminorApidura packable visibility vests are sold through Rene Herse as complementary cycling apparel.
- OPENminorOPEN x Rene Herse collaboration on bicycles, including the 80th Anniversary Rene Herse bike and other collaborative models.
- Cal Poly Pomona Engineering DepartmentcoreEngineering partnership to develop the Tire Pressure Calculator 3.0. Cal Poly Pomona studied how different weights affect tire deformation, providing scientific backing for pressure recommendations based on actual performance data.
- VoiléminorVoilé rack straps are sold through Rene Herse as part of their bag and accessories program.
- OstrichminorOstrich produces bags and accessories including Easy Access Pockets, chain covers, shoulder straps, and disc brake dummy rotors sold through Rene Herse.
- DrustminorDrust produces forged taillight mounts sold through Rene Herse.
- Busch & MüllercoreBusch & Müller supplies taillights including μ, Secuzed, and Secula Plus models that complement the SON headlights in the product lineup.
Scale indicators3 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights5 records
Rene Herse Cycles competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- WTB (Wilderness Trail Bikes): California-based tire and components brand focused on gravel, mountain, and adventure cycling. Comparable in tire-focused product mix and presence in independent bike shop wholesale channels.
- White Industries: Premium US-made bicycle components including hubs, bottom brackets, and cranks. Comparable as a small-scale, premium-positioned component maker emphasizing durability and lifetime warranty support — selling through both DTC and wholesale channels.
- Soma Fabrications: Boutique US cycling brand selling frames, components, and accessories targeted at commuters, randonneurs, and adventure cyclists. Direct peer in DTC-plus-wholesale distribution model and niche premium positioning.
- Compass Cycles: Boutique tire and components maker closely associated with Jan Heine and the all-road/grand touring segment. Pioneered wide-tire performance testing methodologies that directly parallel Rene Herse's tire development approach.
- Velo Orange: Boutique US-based cycling components and framebuilding parts brand with a similar customer base of randonneurs, commuters, and custom builders. Both companies sell directly online and through independent bike shops, offering premium niche components in a heritage-leaning aesthetic.
- Rivendell Bicycle Works: Heritage constructeur-style bicycle company offering frames, components, and apparel targeted at traditional cyclists. Shares Rene Herse's constructeur heritage, randonneur-focused product philosophy, and premium-positioning among independent bike shop customers.
- Chris King Precision Components: Premium US-made headsets, hubs, and bottom brackets with industry-leading warranties. Directly comparable on premium positioning, made-in-USA heritage, and selective distribution through high-end independent bike shops.
Emerging players
- Panaracer: Japanese bicycle tire manufacturer with deep heritage in road, gravel, and randonneur tires. Closely comparable in tire technology focus and presence in independent bike shop wholesale, though at larger scale than Rene Herse.
Broad incumbents
- Campagnolo: Historic Italian premium component manufacturer with strong heritage brand recognition. Overlaps with Rene Herse in premium groupsets, wheels, and the analog shifting segment, but at much larger scale and broader market reach.
- Shimano: World's largest cycling component manufacturer dominating groupsets, wheels, and shoes. Represents the broad incumbent against which Rene Herse's premium niche positioning is defined, with very different scale, R&D budget, and distribution model.
Market position
Strengths4 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat5 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
Rene Herse Cycles social profiles
Digital presenceRene Herse Cycles financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Rene Herse Cycles leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Rene Herse Cycles funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Rene Herse Cycles M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Rene Herse Cycles
What does Rene Herse Cycles do?
Rene Herse Cycles designs, sources, and sells premium bicycle tires (including 700C/29", 650B/27.5", 26", and FMB tubulars) alongside a full lineup of cycling components (cranks, brakes, derailleurs, handlebars, headsets, hubs, pedals, rims, saddles, stems) and equipment (bags, fenders, racks, lights, framebuilding parts, apparel). The company also publishes the Bicycle Quarterly magazine and offers a Tire Pressure Calculator tool developed with Cal Poly Pomona engineering. Products are sold direct-to-consumer via renehersecycles.com and through a global network of independent bike shops.
Is Rene Herse Cycles a public or private company?
Rene Herse Cycles is a private company. It is classified as founder individual operated bootstrapped and is currently operating.
When was Rene Herse Cycles founded?
Rene Herse Cycles was founded in 1938. It employs 11 to 50 people.
Where is Rene Herse Cycles based?
Rene Herse Cycles is headquartered in Seattle, United States, in the North America region.
How does Rene Herse Cycles make money?
Three revenue lines are on record. Direct Product Sales are the primary driver. The others are wholesale Distribution and bicycle Quarterly Subscriptions and Publications.
Who are Rene Herse Cycles's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are WTB (Wilderness Trail Bikes), White Industries, Soma Fabrications, Compass Cycles, Velo Orange, Rivendell Bicycle Works and Chris King Precision Components. Panaracer is listed as an emerging player. Broad incumbents are Campagnolo and Shimano.
Does Rene Herse Cycles have an API?
No public API is recorded for Rene Herse Cycles.
What industry is Rene Herse Cycles in?
Rene Herse Cycles's product category is Bicycle Components and Tires. Its primary akta.pro industry code is CRAMABAH, Cycling & Bike Retail (Sales, Service & Accessories), with a secondary code of CRAMAHAD, Bike Accessories Retail (Lights, Locks, Racks, Bags). Its NAICS code is 336991 and its SIC code is 3751.