Zeus (1926 – 1989)
Zeus was founded by Luis Arregui in Eibar, Spain in 1926, 10 years before Campagnolo. From humble beginnings producing small parts, such as axle bolts and spindles, to supplying local bicycle manufacturers, the company rapidly expanded to employ thirty workers, becoming a major player in the world of fine cycling and exporting to over 60 countries. Zeus riders claimed victories in major races including the Tour of Belgium, Tour of Flanders, Tour of Switzerland, Amstel Gold, Fleche Wallone and Ghent-Wevelgem.
Zeus was the only company in modern times to build a complete professional bicycle incorporating both frame and components, and Arregui himself held over 105 patents. If Zeus’ own publicity is to be believed, the company was also the first to develop a derailleur based on an articulated parallelogram, a surviving prototype apparently being shown in 1971 at the Fiftieth Brussels Show. Details of this are scratchy though, with the business and related paperwork severely disrupted by the Spanish Civil War.
The company ceased trading in 1989, with the brand now owned and sometimes used by Orbea.
A superbly comfortable, high quality and ethically produced merino cycling jersey commemorating one of the classic Spanish brands - buy yours now.
Note: Checkout will occur on the merchants website, and will open in a new browser tab.
This business has been trading for 14.0+ years on Website Worlds eCommerce platform!
Categories: Classic Brands (29) Classic Jerseys (77)