+++ The German lightweight construction specialist AX Lightness is in dire financial straits: the carbon parts manufacturer has had to file for insolvency and is currently looking for new investors. This is not the fault of the bicycle division, which is in good health and growing rapidly. The motorsport division is causing the financial misery.

+++ After Intercycle said goodbye to Cat Eye, Chris Sports proactively stepped into the breach: Cat Eye lights and Velocompis are now available for specialist retailers from the Münchwil-based company Chris Sports. Delivery will begin on January 1, 2016, with pre-orders running immediately.

+++ Showcase e-bike manufacturer Bosch is conquering new territory: from September, the company Eurocycles will act as a local service partner for Bosch eBike Systems in Australia. In addition, Cameron Burke has been recruited as a regional specialist consultant for Bosch eBike Systems on the continent. The company intends to intensify its worldwide activities and underline its global orientation.

+++ The Basel-based custom-made specialist Hilite offers custom carbon frames. These are manufactured in collaboration with the company bcab composites AG. Frame weights from 600 grams should be possible.

+++ Magura remains true to the hydraulic rim brake. The new HS 22 model complements the portfolio between the HS11 entry-level model and the classic HS33 rim brake.

+++ Trek is investing in a new sales model: in the USA, customers will soon be able to buy bikes and accessories directly from the manufacturer online. The US manufacturer wants to respond to the increasing online trade with the system called Trek Connect. The bike ordered online will be delivered via a Trek specialist store, which will receive a large part of the previous margin for the final assembly. Trek will initially use this sales model in the US home market. An expansion of online sales is to be extended where the market environment allows it.