ION G15
GPI
from 6925.00€
In the ION-G15 we have answered your calls for a powerful 29 enduro bike with GEOLUTION geometry and have also provided the G15 with a GPI version, i.e. with Gates timing belt and pinion transmission. With the Pinion P1.12 transmission perfectly integrated into the frame we extend the already impressive capabilities of the bike and create a truly unique bike. Downhill, the GEOLUTION geometry and the low centre of gravity, as well as the lower unsprung mass on the rear wheel provide an undreamt-of downhill potential. Uphill, the combination of GEOLUTION and a full 600 % transmission ratio results in an almost limitless climbing ability. With the ION-G15 GPI you can not only leave the gas at the Enduro race or in the bike park, it is also fun at home on the trail lap. With its low maintenance and unrivalled range of applications, the ION-G15 GPI is a bike for every situation. Enduro race, big mountain adventure or technical alpine cross… it’s up to you.
We have built the ION-G15 GPI for all the demanding riders who not only believe in the potential of the large wheels, but are also not afraid to take extraordinary paths in their search for the perfect bike. With its highly innovative technologies, starting with GEOLUTION geometry, through the integration of the Pinion transmission into the bike, to the maintenance-free Gates Carbon Drive timing belt, the ION-G15 GPI was created solely from the desire to build the best possible Enduro racebike that is technically feasible. The fact that it also works very well as a long-stroke trail bike and occasionally in the bike park makes the ION G15 GPI even more attractive.
The ION-G15 GPI closes the gap between the ION-G13 and the G16, offering maximum trail performance in a range where 29’s were rarely found before. The good nature of the large wheels, the downhill performance and unique sovereignty of our GEOLUTION geometry and all this combined with the central focus, the shift performance and the low maintenance of the Pinion transmission… this is our ION G15 GPI. As uncompromisingly the bike also works on technical enduro trails and drives the rider to ever new top performances due to its smooth running, so confidently it rides uphill. Due to the steep seat angle and the long chainstays, coupled with the efficient kinematics, there is no more cramped “on-the-saddle-nose crouching” in steep climbs and you can pedal calmly and fully concentrate on the trail in front of you.12 transmissions with its 600 % transmission ratio bandwidth naturally also contributes its part to the fact that with the ION-G15 GPI you can master steep and technical climbs noticeably easier and more relaxed. The Gates Carbon Drive timing belt and a belt tensioner developed by us with integrated Bash-Guard completes the concept of our innovative carefree Enduro.
Like all NICOLAI bikes, the ION-G15 GPI is a complete in-house development. From the first drawings, through FEM-supported optimization, to production and final assembly, all work steps take place under one roof. Of course, the ION G15 also has all the ingredients that make a real NICOLAI: An optimally fitting tube set for the application, the striking CNC milled parts including the pinion bracket and everything assembled by our experienced welders with millimetre precision and with the unmistakably curved welds to form a complete work of art. At all pivot points of the four-joint rear frame there are 4-fold sealed industrial bearings and ensure a creamy response, with maximum rigidity and low maintenance…. Just NICOLAI.
With a total of 5 standard sizes (S to XXL) we have the right frame size for almost every rider, from 1.60 to over 2 metres.
As always with us, you can customise your frame with colours – whether with robust powder coatings, light anodised colours or our already legendary raw finish. With the coloured accents of the Extra Love parts you can upgrade your bike even more. Even custom geometries are possible for an extra charge, although we honestly do not know what there is still to improve in our GEOLUTION geometry.
NICOLAI ION G15 GPI – the transmission enduro in 29!
WELDING TECHNOLOGY
A NICOLAI IS ALWAYS RECOGNIZABLE BY ITS WELDS.
We design a unique jig for every model and frame size. The tubes and machined components are turned and milled as necessary and then mounted in the jig, fitting perfectly together. Then, these parts are tacked together by spot welding.
The frame is then welded in several passes by TIG (tungsten inert gas) to reduce distortion. By reducing the distortion as much as possible it improves the alignment of the frame. Our flat, even welds are time-consuming but ensure that the material is properly fused, improving strength.
The wide and flat welded bead distributes force over a larger area, improving the strength of the frame. Sometimes we add gussets to reinforce parts of the frame that receive particularly high forces, such as from braking or jumping.
This extra care and attention to detail ensures that your frame will give you years of fun, even under the most demanding riders and conditions.
ANGULAR CONTACT BEARINGS
4 WAY SEALED
The rear triangle of a full suspension bike is not a statically rigid component and is exposed to extreme loads during driving. Critical points are the ball bearings, which ensure low breakaway torque and optimum response of the chassis. In order to extend the maintenance intervals of the frame, Nicolai products rely exclusively on full complement, double-sealed ball bearings.
These are protected by two additional O-ring seals. Thus, the bearings are optimally protected against moisture and dirt.
Full complement bearings have a higher load rating than standard ball bearings, as a higher number of balls are used in these bearings – in summary, they are more robust.
Pinion Option
CONTROLLED PERFORMANCE.
The Pinion GmbH transmission is low-maintenance and optimally integrated into the bicycle frame. The central centre of gravity and the lighter rear wheel bring noticeable advantages in handling, driving dynamics and rear performance. The transmission responds to shift commands in a flash.
MODELS
Type | P1.18
Gears | 18
Overall ration | 636%
Increments | 11.5%
Gearbox weight | 2700g
Type | P.12
Gears | 12
Overall ration | 600%
Increments | 17.7%
Gearbox weight | 2350g
Topologie-optimierte Struktur
A bicycle frame and its components are exposed to extreme forces during use. In order to develop a durable, robust but also lightweight bicycle frame, all components are designed at NICOLAI GmbH using topology optimization.
Topology optimization is a computer-based calculation method by which a favorable basic shape (topology) for components under mechanical load can be determined. This text from the textbook abstractly but aptly describes which processes we use to develop new components. In topology optimization, an algorithm calculates the optimized mass distribution in a component based on defined installation spaces, defined forces, material properties and component geometries.
Thus, lighter and stiffer structures can be developed. However, these procedures are only a tool and one of many. However, the most important tool for an engineer is professional experience. The combination of many years of professional experience and computer-based optimization software creates components that are second to none, both technically and optically.
COLOR VARIETY
Extralove
With a NICOLAI frame, you decide the design. Every Nicolai frame can be produced in any colour according to your preferences. Choose from different frame colours, anodised colours for reversing levers and pull holders as well as frame decor to add your individual touch to the frame.
Frame color:
Powder coated, anodized or factory-raw – you decide what your frame looks like. Powder coating is a melted plastic coating that is significantly more resistant to scratching and impact than conventional coatings.
Lacquer. Anodising is an electrochemical process used to colour the surface of aluminium. The oxide layer is even harder and more scratch-resistant than any powder coating. Additional weight is not applied during anodising. However, the thin oxide layer can be penetrated more easily. With a powder coating or lacquer you can hide flaws in the surface. Scratches, scoring and tool marks can be filled and smoothed like skin folds with make-up. An anodizing does not hide anything, reveals every flaw; the brighter the anodizing tone, the clearer. This is why different colours are produced on welded frames during anodising. However, the current trend is towards frames which are delivered “factory-raw”. The frames are not coated after production, but move directly to assembly. You get your frame without coating (also no clear lacquer). Over time, an oxide layer/patina forms on the frame, causing the shine of the raw aluminium to fade slightly. With the help of a polishing fleece, however, the old shine can be restored in a few easy steps. In addition to the unmistakable look, the “factory raw” look best reveals the manufacturing quality and technical charm of the frame.
Click here for the colour samples!
Decor:
You can choose between the Nicolai standard lettering or the NICOLAI BIG N logo for the decors. The decors are available in different colours and finishes – you decide.
bellcrank assembly:
You have the choice of adjusting the colour of your bell crank, the tension brackets and the preload covers to your frame. We offer various anodising colours with which you can refine your bike. Due to the process, there may be colour deviations between the components of light anodised colours due to material properties.
Rado
Rear Aligning Dropout
So that you can hit every lane on the trail, we mount a form-fit sliding, exchangeable dropout for track and camber adjustment on all frames. Due to the differently milled, right dropouts for adjusting the lintel, the rear only needs to be slightly readjusted after installation. This takes the strain off the material. The respective lintel height is milled into the RADO with the digits 0, 1, 2 or -1 and -2. After the toe and camber have been set, the RADO is fixed ex works with a pin. This makes the original setting easily reproducible during replacement. This is the only way we can guarantee that NICOLAI products work precisely on the track.
ET KEY
THE RIGHT SETTING FOR EVERY TRAIL
With the ET-Key, the range of application of the frame can be adjusted in a few easy steps. The ET-KEY changes the kinematically active length of the compression strut. With the models ION-G13, ION-G15 and ION-G19 you can adjust the steering angle and the bottom bracket height, e.g. for a visit to the bike park or a steeper trail. With an ION-G16, the shock absorber length can be adjusted via the ET KEY and thus the spring travel can be changed. The damper length/stroke can be changed from 216x63mm to 222x70mm. As a customer you can fully rely on the performance of your Nicolai frame. In the depth of the technology we do our homework and with the introduction of the ET-KEYS we have introduced a robust and simple adjustment technology.
MANUFACTURING QUALITY
The manufacturing quality itself is not yet an added value for a customer. The following two added values result from production quality:
Durability & precise driving characteristics
Only if the welds are welded deep into the root and have no notches, a bike frame can withstand the impacts from the ground for many years without breaking. Precise riding characteristics are achieved when the rear wheel is precisely straight to the front wheel and even a layman notices that an oblique bike rides strangely (but usually he thinks it’s because of his riding ability).
ver the last 20 years, we have continuously optimized our production in order to further increase production quality and, of course, to be able to implement ever more sophisticated designs. Of course you can also outsource a production, but then you have to plan a certain additional effort to check the processes at others. We do not do this, because we manufacture everything in-house. However, this trivial fact leads to the next reason:
Customer-specific adaptation options
Since we only manufacture a NICOLAI bike when we have received an order from a customer, it is easy for us to implement different wishes such as colour, train guidance or even a special geometry. The possibilities and limits can be evaluated in a personal discussion with our sales and technical team. Oh, and here’s another reason:
Personal Advice
Personal contact continues even after purchasing a NICOLAI bike. There are customers with whom we have been friends for 20 years and if after a few years of hard work a bearing needs to be changed or a frame needs a new coating, you can simply call the guys from the service department. Since we also manufacture all small parts on our machines, we can also produce all spare parts for older models if required. In three words:
10 years spare parts availability
We do not follow any trends, but test everything ourselves and come to our own convictions and that for 20 years. We have a great deal of experience. In my opinion, it borders on insulting customers to announce a bike as a novelty in one year and to discontinue the same model as a discontinued model next year. A NICOLAI is timeless. Straight drawn round tubes paired with elaborate CNC milled parts and beautiful detail solutions result in a frame design that will please even after many years. I call it that:
Durability and value stability
The manufacture of products close to the customer is environmentally friendly. This applies to bread, milk, meat and any other product. And it applies above all to large objects. I do not want to transport bulky bicycle frames, which consist almost exclusively of air, in containers across the oceans. I just want to produce the things that are needed. For more and more customers this sustainability and the jobs here on site is a reason to choose a NICOLAI bike. Worn phrase:
sustainability
But back to the bikes. Every NICOLAI frame is developed in Lübbrechtsen. The bike is designed, prototypes built and tested until we are satisfied. The feedback of our team riders, our customers and our own experience as bikers is incorporated. Our goal is always the same: To make best function, durability, reliability and the good better. And that’s the best reason:
The best bike
regards
Kalle Nicolai
TAILOR MADE
WE MANUFACTURE YOUR CUSTOM-MADE FRAME
You can order, pay for and pick up your tailor made frame directly from us or from your Nicolai dealer. For technical details, please contact us directly. First we need to know why you want to ride a custom-made frame. Most of the reasons lie in the past.
Which bike did you ride? What was its geometry? What were your problems with that? Maybe back pain, aching knees or a sting in the neck?
Next we want to know your body measurements and mass, i.e. your height, your stride length, your arm length and your weight. Which seating position do you prefer? Do you have health problems? What do you want to do with the bike? Cross country racing or freeriding? Loose tours or steep trails? Which parts do you want to drive or retrofit later?
Often, after a more precise evaluation of the information, we determine that a series frame can also fulfil your wishes. However, if we notice that our series frames do not meet your requirements, we will design a dimensional geometry for you.
#GEOLUTION
“We don’t care about trends! All that matters is lap times, driving pleasure, safety and the physical facts.” This quote from Kalle Nicolai describes Nicolai’s approach to the development of new mountain bikes. This mission statement has made NICOLAI one of the most innovative bicycle companies in terms of chassis performance, steering dynamics and geometry.
GEOLUTION is the geometry concept on which all current Nicolai models are based. In the last 3 years GEOLUTION was developed by NICOLAI and the suspension specialist Chris Porter. The concept is based on the realization that a longer wheelbase, a flatter steering angle and a steeper seat angle make the bike faster, smoother, more climbing and safer.
The geometric relationship between wheels, steering angle, and weight distribution between wheels are the decisive factors for good handling. The relationship between saddle, crank and rear wheel axle are the decisive factors for a good climbing behaviour of a bike. The GEOLUTION concept combines perfect handling with optimum climbing behaviour. The rider is integrated into the bike through the long reach, the steep seat angle and the long wheelbase, so that the centre of gravity lies optimally between front and rear wheel axle.
All GEOMETRON models are driven with short stems, so that the driver has a relaxed, sporty sitting position despite the long top tube.
The very complex topic can be simplified down to 4 advantages which offers both professionals and beginners a clear added value:
• Best climbing ability (front does not rise)
• No feeling of rollover downhill
• The rider sits and stands integrated in the wheel (more control)
• Higher cornering speed (more grip on the front wheel)
These advantages are clearly noticeable not only for the professional, but also for the beginner. We build our bikes because we want to ride them the same way.
10 YEARS SPARE PARTS AVAILABILITY
If after a few years of hard work a bearing on a Nicolai frame needs to be replaced, a RADO needs to be replaced due to a fall or a frame needs a new coating, the NICOLAI service staff is the right contact. Since we at NICOLAI manufacture all small parts on our machines, we can also produce spare parts for older models if required. We therefore guarantee spare parts availability of at least 10 years for all Nicolai products.
Bike Configurator
You can now configure the ION G15 GPI as a complete bike. Components from HOPE, FOX, SRAM, MAGURA, RESET, CONTINENTAL, SQLAB, RENTHAL are available. Choose your wheel size and configure your dream bike now.
ION G15 GPI
Ride
Enduro
spring deflection
145 mm
weight
from 16.5 kg
wheel size
29"
warranty
5 years
Tech Sheet
ION G15 GPI
