ARGON GX PINION
CYCLOCROSS / GRAVEL
from 3349.00€
ARGON GX
GRAVEL AND CROSS
As a gravel bike, the Argon GX Pinion spans a wide range from road to touring, trekking and bikepacking, to off-road trails, covering a particularly wide range of uses. In addition to various design details, a modular construction concept with numerous equipment and mounting options contributes to this in particular. The respective center of gravity and the characteristics of a personalised Argon GX Pinion can be tuned according to the wishes and preferences of the rider. The Argon GX Pinion offers the same sporty potential as the Gravel base model Argon GX, everything possible aboard the derailleur driven GX is matched by the PINION version. In addition, the PINION drive extends the range of applications for those not only looking for a sports bike, but also want to use their bike as a fast commuter, daily rider, or an indestructible and versatile toure.
The frame of the Argon GX Pinion is designed to be particularly torsionally stiff, transferring pedal power directly and efficiently into propulsion. 142 x 12mm thru-axle dropouts further strengthen the frame construction. On some Gravel bikes, flexible rear stays are installed or elastomers are glued into the frame to gain some comfort. NICOLAI does without such features: durability and an efficient drive are clearly top priorities here. NICOLAI views wide tires as the primary source of ride comfort, for which the rear of the Argon GX provides ample space. A rather short seat tube in relation to the frame size allows a longer extension of the seat post, which then also increases the comfort through more flex.
CRAFTMANSHIP AND ENGINEERING
A NICOLAI bike is instantly recognizable even if it is not branded. Its characteristic flat-scaled welds and machined aesthetics of the milled parts are unique. Nothing is sanded down or concealed. The industrial design language is not a goal in itself. It reflects the product’s development process, makes our design logic transparent and displays its properties and functions. This not only creates trust in the product, in its quality and durability, but also ensures a memorable brand within a constantly growing community.
Handmade methods are not chosen for style and CNC machining is not used for mass production. We use each manufacturing technique in a specific manner so that the end result is always the best possible: a product into which we have poured all our resources, skills and passion and of which we are proud.
Hollow Mill
Milling art / Organic shapes
NICOLAI manufactures all frame components and tube sets of the Argon GX in its own German factory. In addition to its many years of experience, the manufacturer relies on topology optimization during the design process, a computer-aided simulation of the forces that will be found in the real world. This process enables the construction of particularly durable but lightweight components and assemblies. Thanks to modern 5-axis CNC machines, there are virtually no limits to NICOLAI’s ability to produce complex, optimized 3D milled parts. Particular characteristics found on the Argon GX such as the seat stay yoke or the combined bottom bracket/chain stay yoke are made possible by our so-called ‘Hollow Mill’ technology.
Welded at NICOLAI by experienced hands in several passes at a very slow speed to achieve a deep fusion of the material, minimizing stress and distortion. The iconic flat and even scaled welds on the Argon GX are not only visually impressive, above all they optimally dissipate the forces placed on the frame. The manufacturer has complete confidence in its designs because where most gravel bikes limit the total weight of rider and bike to 125 kg, the Argon GX frame has no weight limit and a 5-year warranty that includes the toughest uses and competitions.
The Argon GX is designed to be torsionally stiff, which means that the pedaling force is converted directly and efficiently into propulsion. 142 x 12mm thru axle dropouts further strengthen the frame construction. On some Gravel bikes, flexible rear stays are installed or elastomers are glued into the frame to gain some comfort, NICOLAI does without such features. Durability and an efficient drive are clearly the top priorities here. NICOLAI sees wider tires as the prime factor for ride comfort and the rear triangle of the Argon GX provides ample clearance. A short seat tube in relation to the frame size allows a longer extension of the seat post, which further increases seated comfort with more flex.
TIRE WIDTH IS A CORE FACTOR
MORE GRIP, MORE SAFETY
The frame of the Argon GX is made of 7020-T6 aircraft aluminum not only for comfort through absorption and self-damping, especially considering the off-road capability of a gravel bike, the tires are an important core factor. The wider the tires, the lower the air pressure that can be run without risking a puncture, lower pressure means a larger contact patch for the tire off-road increasing grip and safety. The Argon GX can accommodate tires up to 45mm wide on 28 inch wheels or 50mm wide on 27.5 inch wheels, putting it at the upper end of the scale compared to other gravel bikes.
BOTTLE CAPACITY
BACKPACK, HIPPACK OR CLASSIC BOTTLE HOLDER?
The decision is yours. The ARGON GX has three bottle cage mounts in all frame sizes from S to XXL. From now on we can also deliver your NICOLAI directly with the NICOLAI x FIDLOCK water bottle. With the 0.6 liter TWIST bottle, Fidlock sets standards for optimally functioning drink bottles.
The bottle can be intuitively snapped onto the down tube without an ugly plastic or metal cage via magnets with a twisting motion. Jumps or rock gardens can not dislodge the bottle. Rattling or lost bottles are a thing of the past.
Now also available online individually in the store.
Drive
Pinion x Gates
NICOLAI offers two different versions of the PINION gearbox for the Argon GX Pinion. You have the choice between the 18-speed variant, P1.18, and the 12-speed variant, C1.12. The P1.18 has a total gear ratio of 636% with constant gear steps of 11.5% and weighs 2700g. The C1.12 variant offers 600% total gearing with 17.7% gear increments and weighs 2280g.
Integrated within the frame, the PINION gear system ensures a low and central center of gravity, which has a positive effect on bike handling and ride dynamics. All sensitive moving parts work away cleanly, protected from moisture, dirt and damage within a sealed housing – service and maintenance are minimal. Lightning-fast, precise gear changes and multi-gear jumps are among the strengths of the PINION transmission, as are its smooth, quiet operation, the wide gear ratio range and an identical gradation of all gears.
Instead of a classic chain drive, NICOLAI relies on the GATES Carbon Drive for the Argon GX Pinion. This carbon fiber reinforced drive belt transmits the power efficiently, quietly and chain-slap free to the rear wheel without stretching. The “Centertrack” guide along the belt ribs and teeth prevents the belt from jumping off. The GATES Carbon Drive, unlike a chain, requires neither lubrication nor special care. Dirt and mud can simply be sprayed off with water. Since the Carbon Drive operates dry and without lubricants, there is also no risk of getting your clothes oily when using the Argon GX Pinion riding to work or everyday riding.
The GATES Carbon Drive drive belt is tensioned via so-called ‘Slide’ dropouts. These dropouts slide on both sides of the frame and are positively guided along horizontal grooves on the inside of the rear triangle. The Argon GX Pinion uses a standard 142 x 12mm thru-axle rear hub. A Flat Mount 140 disc brake is integrated into the left Slide dropout, so, when adjusting the dropouts no readjustment of the brake caliper is required.
By choosing between two PINION gearboxes with different numbers of gears and ratios, one can define the basic character of the Argon GX Pinion bike and optimize it for the envisioned use. The unrivaled 636% range of the PINION P1.18 gears makes it possible to tackle any climb at the ergonomically optimal cadence, even when the bike is loaded or towing a trailer, or if the focus is use as a touring bike, trekking bike and explorer. With a straight handlebar and multiple mounting options for adventure gear, this could be its true destiny.
On the other side of the spectrum, the Argon GX Pinion also cuts an excellent shape as a purist gravel bike. Here, the PINION transmission scores with its robustness and improves the riding characteristics due to its centralized, low center of gravity. With the lighter 12-speed PINION C1.12 option with 600% total transmission ratio and a low handlebar, the Argon GX Pinion is an indestructible sports machine for road, gravel and trails.
EXTERNAL CABLE ROUTING
All gear cables and brake lines on the Argon GX are routed externally under the downtube for easier service access with bolt-on guide clips. If necessary, the rear disc brake can be completely replaced without having to split the line and the consequent need to bleed the brake.
Brakes
Flat Mount 140
Like mountain bikes, gravel bikes are also equipped with disc brakes. This ensures sensitive dosing of braking forces with a constant pressure point at the brake lever regardless of dirt and weather. The Argon GX uses the new Flat Mount 140 standard, which allows for a particularly compact and lighter brake design.
Adventure Bike Packing
Rack & Fender
Multi-day bike tours through remote areas are all the rage, and more and more bikers would prefer to experience their adventure on a fast and lightweight gravel bike instead of a classic touring bike. The Argon GX Pinion has all the necessary mounting points for mudguards and pannier racks. NICOLAI has succeeded in hiding these so discreetly that the look of a purebred gravel sports bike is not affected. The mounting threads for mudguards on the dropouts and inside of the yokes will only be noticed with a second glance.
To install a heavy-duty rear pannier, NICOLAI offers an adapter, which is inserted into the transverse cutout of the seat stay yoke and connected via two holes located discreetly underneath. The Argon GX has 2 bottle cage mounts in all frame sizes. The front triangle is ideal for mounting frame bags thanks to the straight-cut trapezoid shape.
The equipment possibilities include, of course, suitable road riding equipment, which makes the Argon GX Pinion very attractive especially as a fast commuter and everyday bike.
No matter where you set your personal focus and how the individual custom project looks in the end, the Argon GX Pinion does not limit you to a narrowly defined range of use. Even with a suspension fork, wide tires and straight handlebars, the sporty geometry and stiff frame make for fast road riding. And, if the Project Bike is closer to a racing machine, most off-road trails are still open to you thanks to the smooth ride and safe handling. The Argon GX provides a broad and solid base for any definition of gravel biking.
7020-T6 ALUMINIUM
The frame of the Argon GX is made from 7020-T6 aircraft aluminum (AlZn4.5Mg1), which has a 30% higher tensile strength and a 20% higher elastic limit compared to the 6061-T6 alloy (AlMg1SiCu) commonly used in frame construction. Compared to lighter carbon frames, an aluminum construction can have a weight disadvantage, but is generally less sensitive to stone chips and crash damage.
Manufacturing exclusively from 7020-T6 alloy – also known as German Aircraft Aluminum, we remain true to our philosophy that this aluminum is the superior material for mountain bike construction: all milling and cutting scraps, as well as discarded frames, are 100% recycled to the original raw material, which can then be used to create new, high-quality bikes. Our goal is a complete circular economy.
Compared to the alloy 6061-T6 (AlMg1SiCu), which is usually used in bicycle construction, the widespread use of 6061-T6 is partly due to the fact that it can be processed at lower tooling costs and the frames can be straightened after welding with less technical effort.
Sometimes inadequate carbon frames can spontaneously break and collapse in the event of an overload, NICOLAI bikes are calculated and designed to deform in a defined area of the frame in the event of an overload, significantly reducing the risk of serious crashes or injuries. A NICOLAI aluminum frame is designed to withstand many years of severe competition conditions.
Geometry
From XS to XXL
The geometry of the Argon GX combines sportiness and efficiency with control and handling across a wide range. The recipe for this is a relatively long top tube and reach dimension for efficiency and speed in combination with a slack steering angle and a longer rear for smoothness and driving stability on dirt roads and trails. The frame is also compatible with gravel suspension forks up to 40mm travel, which NICOLAI offers as an upgrade option. NICOLAI applies adaptive geometry to the Argon GX, which takes into account weight and proportion for different body sizes. As the length and height of the main frame increases, the seat angle becomes flatter on larger frames, while the steering angle becomes steeper. This ensures that the bike’s characteristics remain the same at each size. The Argon GX is offered in 6 frame sizes, from XS to XXL, suitable for riders from 155cm to 208cm. Few manufacturers offer such a wide range.
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.
Color Variety
Extralove
With a NICOLAI frame you determine the design. Every Nicolai frame can be produced in a color according to your preferences. NICOLAI operates its own powder coating facility at the factory and offers a choice of over 50 colors for the Argon GX, each in high gloss or satin finish. However, the frame can also be optionally hard anodized, with a choice of black, bronze and titanium. On request, the frame can also be supplied uncoated in the “factory raw” aluminum finish.
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.
TAILOR MADE
WE MANUFACTURE YOUR CUSTOM-MADE FRAME
You can order, pay and pick up your custom frame directly from us or from your Nicolai dealer. For technical details we are directly at your disposal. First we need to know why you want to ride a custom frame. Mostly the reasons lie in the past.
Which bike did you ride? What geometry did it have? What problems did you have with it? Maybe back pain, aching knees or a twinge in your neck?
Next, we want to know your body measurements and body mass, i.e. your height, your stride length, your arm length and your weight. Which sitting position do you prefer? Do you have any health problems? What do you want to do with the bike? Cross country racing or freeriding? Easy touring or steep trails? What parts do you want to ride or be able to upgrade later?
Often, after evaluating the information in more detail, we find that a stock frame can also meet your needs. However, if we notice that our series frames do not meet your requirements, then we design a custom geometry for you.
MANUFACTURING QUALITY
Made in Germany
The manufacturing quality itself is not yet an added value for a customer. The following two added values “durability & precise driving characteristics”result from production quality. 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).
Over 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
WARRANTY AND SPARE PARTS SUPPLY
We provide a 5-year warranty on all frame models against breakage and material failure, even for competitive use and jumps. The prerequisite is that the respective models are used within the scope of their designated purpose and have only been equipped with components for which an approval has been obtained. In addition, we guarantee the availability of spare parts for all models for a period of at least 10 years.
NICOLAI offers the Argon GX Pinion as a custom build like all of their bikes. You can choose from various equipment, finishing and details via an online configurator and assemble the bike according to your individual wishes, requirements and dreams.
If the Argon GX is to be used mainly on road and gravel and only occasionally on the trail, i.e. if a characteristic close to that of a road bike is desired, the choice of a 28″ wheelset with 32mm wide Continental Cross King tires is recommended, for example.
At the other end of the spectrum, however, a configuration is also possible with the Argon GX Pinion that comes quite close to a hardtail mountain bike: installation of a lowerable seatpost (dropper post) is possible as well as a flat MTB handlebar and short travel suspension fork. With the choice between a straight handlebar, or a drop Gravel handlebar, there is an influence on the frame size. For the same body size, a larger frame is recommended when using a straight handlebar than when using a drop gravel handlebar. NICOLAI therefore has a separate size recommendation for each handlebar option in the geometry table.
The Argon GX fork can also be selected according to the preferred center of gravity of use. The tapered standard head tube with semi-integrated bearings can accommodate either a rigid gravel fork or a gravel suspension fork with up to 40mm travel.
The choice of seatpost also allows NICOLAI customers to perfect the Argon GX according to their own personal definition of gravel biking. The seat tube dimension of 31.6mm allows the use of a regular rigid seat post as well as the installation of a dropper post. Mountain bikes have used this component as a performance and safety benefit for years: loose terrain, steps and steep descents with a high saddle will no longer be terrifying. The cable guides for a dropper post are optional. If a regular seat post is used, there are no unused guides and the look remains clean.
TRADE AND DISTRIBUTION
NICOLAI frame kits and complete bikes are offered in Germany through our direct sales channel. We offer off the shelf models, or completely customized dream builds with a wide choice of components via our online configurator. Personal discussions and direct contact with customers are our top priority.
Abroad, selected partners are available for sales. With our large test bike fleet, we regularly visit bike parks and trail centers around central Europe. Here, potential NICOLAI riders can extensively test our bikes after prior registration and receive individual advice. At the NICOLAI factory we have set up a showroom where all current models are on display. Here, you can also make appointments for personal consultations, test rides, buy bikes directly or pick up pre-ordered bikes.
We have developed a refined and reusable bike box for our mail-order shipping. In this box, the new NICOLAI bike arrives fixed to, and protected by a wooden frame, guaranteeing safe delivery and is ready for use after a few simple steps. The same box is reused when the bike is returned to us for repair or service. All shipping protection inside the bike box such as pads, lashing straps, brackets and screw connections are also reusable, plus it can be flat packed for home storage.
ARGON GX PINION
Ride
Cyclocross / Gravel
Weight
2.1 kg + Pinion
Wheel size
700 C
Warrenty
5 Years
Tech Sheet
ARGON GX PINION
