The history of Schwalbe

Who are “Schwalbe”?

The German word for “swallow.” A symbol of happiness, freedom, and graceful flight. Viewed through the bicycle lens, we can say that this name is synonymous with reliability and quality. Schwalbe is one of the largest companies in the cycling industry, whose main activity is the production of tires for wheels. It has managed to establish itself in the market with the right business model, exceptionally high-quality products, and a constant thirst for innovation and development of technologies in bicycle tire manufacturing.

Brand History

It all began in 1922 in Germany, when two brothers – Eugen and Willy Bohle – started a family business buying and selling bicycles and components from and outside Europe. The place where they had the largest export was East Asia.

In 1955, Ralph Bohle, Eugen’s son, joined the family business. He played a key role in its development. In 1970, Ralph used his expertise and contacts in East Asia and began importing components for German manufacturers.

Three years later, in 1973, Ralph said: “We will specialize exclusively in bicycle tires.” The partner in this endeavor was the Korean company Hung-A Co., Ltd., which, according to Schwalbe, was the only manufacturer consistently offering them high quality.

The name "Schwalbe" comes from the tire brand "Swallow," which Ralph Bohle imported from Korea to Germany in 1973, with "Swallow" translated into German as "Schwalbe."

The goal of 3 million tires annually within five years was achieved in just two.

In 1983, Schwalbe introduced the Marathon model – distinguished by exceptional durability, previously unknown in touring and everyday city bicycles.

In 2000, a new logistics center was opened, which also serves as the company headquarters. At the same place where once only seven employees worked, there is now a team of 100 people.

That same year, the next generation joined Schwalbe’s management: Frank Bohle became CEO, while Holger Jahn (technologies) and Andreas Grothe (finance) became managing directors.

“Schwalbe” Today

In 2011, Schwalbe expanded its direct presence to 43 countries worldwide, establishing itself as one of the leading manufacturers of bicycle tires with unmatched quality and innovation.

Today, Schwalbe continues to be a giant in the bicycle industry and is one of the most recognizable brands. They have proven their quality over the years not only in the eyes of the average consumer but also among world-class racers.

In 2022, the company recorded a turnover of 355 million euros, setting a record in the year of its 50th anniversary.

Brand Innovations and Achievements

1. The technology for the first tire in the Marathon series – 1983. The first tire specifically made for daily and long-distance riding with exceptional durability. This innovation set a durability standard that changed the market.

2. Introduction of Smart Guard – 1995. A revolutionary puncture protection system with a 5-millimeter thick layer of special rubber.

3. Introduction of the 'balloon' tire concept – 2002. The concept of balloon tires – with lower pressure, larger volume, and width, allowing greater comfort during urban riding.

4. Tubeless technology – 2015. Schwalbe was among the first brands to start producing and selling tubeless tires for the mass market.

5. The ADDIX system – 2017. A special compound for tire manufacturing that provides Schwalbe with flexibility in production and improves all parameters of their previous tires. A compound that allows higher performance. What are its ingredients? Schwalbe keeps this information secret to this day and shares only the results with its customers.