SATURN 14 ST

We offer the SATURN 14 in two versions. The SATURN 14 with the suffix ST is manufactured with a reinforced tube set. This gives the bike clearance for forks with an length of up to 570mm and a diameter of 36mm. The standard SATURN 14 has no approval for the bike park and the fork length is limited to 550mm. The frame weight increases by about 300gr depending on the frame size.

We developed our Mutators to allow combinations of 27.5”, 29” and fine-tune frame geometry. Mutators are interchangeable connectors found at the pivot points on our full-suspension frames. Compression strut Mutators allow the frame to be adapted to 27.5” or 29” wheel sizes using different lengths to raise or lower the height of the frame. They are also used for adjusting the headtube angle and bottom bracket height in fine increments. Secondly, our swingarm Mutators tune chainstay length in terms of center of gravity, handling, maneuverability and smoothness.   A swingarm Mutator consists of two half-shells that are securely mounted and connected to the swingarm via a tapered rectangular fit eliminating play and torsion. Simultaneously, the Mutators integrate extra bearing seals and replace the bearing axle. Mutators are not only a clever way to customize your perfect ride, they also reduce the number of components at the pivot points, increase bearing life, minimize wear. If the worst does come to the worst? Mutators allows quick and easy replacement of component parts instead of large frame structures. 

We weld all of our frames by hand using the TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) method. Our specially trained welders have many years of experience, our lead welder has worked in-house for over 20 years. For each model and frame size we build a precise welding structure called the frame jig. In this jig, the CNC-cut tube sets are precisely assembled and fixed in place with all turned and milled parts of the frame to be welded. The frame components are first tacked together with individual spot welds at precise points in a defined sequence, and then, to minimize distortion and stresses, welded in several passes.

When designing turned and CNC milled parts, we use FEM software (Finite Element Method), which can be used to simulate the loads that will occur on the trail in order to determine the optimum shape (topology) of these components. Critical areas of the design become visible in this way and can be strengthened by adding material, or weight can be saved by removing material from low stress areas. In this way we can produce highly complex parts and assemblies for our frames that combine maximum durability with minimum weight.

All NICOLAI frame models come with a 5-year warranty against breakage and material failure, even when used in extreme conditions like racing or jumping. The prerequisites are that the respective models are used within the scope of their designated purpose and have only been equipped with approved components. In addition, we guarantee supply of spare parts for all models for at least 10 years. Since we manufacture all frame components ourselves on our own machines, it is even possible to reproduce sold-out spare parts beyond the 10-year period in certain cases.