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Discover the new E-MTB models. To the bikes

ARGON GEN

    4.400,00 €
    incl. 19% VAT , plus shipping costs (Komplettbike)
    • Available immediately
KONFIGURIEREN
Financing  Easy assembly  5 year warranty  Testride Technical Data  Custom Gallery

ARGON GEN

The Argon GEN is the latest update of the Argon GLF, the original purebred enduro hardtail from the house of NICOLAI. Again, the previous model has been revised and improved in multiple areas. In order to realize an even more capable, downhill-oriented Enduro design on a hardtail, NICOLAI has determined the long, slack Geolution geometry of its Enduro racing machine G1 in the loaded and compressed state. Essentially shaping the GEN to match a G1 under sag/rider weight, and set these values as its basis. The Argon GEN is a radical 27.5” Enduro hardtail with a slack 63° head angle and a long reach of 455mm (Size M). According to its clear Gravity orientation, it is designed for forks with 150 to 170mm travel. The Argon GEN is the perfect tool for hardtail fans to leave most Fullies in the dust – at bike parks or enduro trails – appropriate skills required!

NICOLAI WELDING TECHNOLOGY

CRAFTSMANSHIP AND ENGINEERING IN PERFECTION

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.

Hollow Milled Technology

LOAD- AND WEIGHT-OPTIMIZED, HOLLOW-MILLED VOLUME COMPONENTS

Hollow Milled Technology is a design and manufacturing process that maximizes material and weight savings without weakening the structure in high-stress areas. E.g. the large volume components of the seat and chainstay yokes of our new Argon Generation. For this purpose, the stress zones in the material are determined by computer simulation during the design phase. Highly stressed areas can be strengthened while material can be saved in areas subject to low stress. This method is called topology optimization. The use of state-of-the-art 5-axis milling machines allows us to manufacture highly complex, hollow-milled frame components from a single block and to create an optimized design with the highest attention to detail. As a result, the new Argon Yokes are not only lightweight and durable, they also look damn good.

TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION

COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN TO OPTIMIZE DURABILITY, FUNCTION AND WEIGHT

When designing turned and milled parts, we use FEM software (Finite Element Method), which can be used to simulate the loads that will occur in later use 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, whereas material can be saved at less stressed areas. In this way, we can manufacture highly complex parts and assemblies for our frames that combine maximum durability with minimum weight.

BOTTLE CAGE

ATTACHMENT POINTS FOR WATER BOTTLES AND ACCESSORIES

Even though many riders now rely on hydration or hip packs, few want to do without the option of a bottle cage within the front triangle. For a clean look, we offer our customised magnetic FIDLOCK mount together with a NICOLAI 0.6L Twist bottle. The FIDLOCK mount allows intuitive release and engagement of the water bottle in both directions even while riding, plus it’s secured in the frame even on the wildest rides and hardest hits. For further mounting options, for example to attach small toolboxes, pumps or bags, the NICOLAI frame clamps from our accessories line are ideal.

Pinion Option

CONTROLLED PERFORMANCE

Many NICOLAI models can be equipped with a Pinion GmbH gearbox on request. The 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-end performance. The transmission reacts to shift commands at lightning speed.

7020 Aluminium

SUSTAINABLE AND DURABLE, THE STUFF DREAMS ARE MADE OF

We manufacture all NICOLAI frames from 7020-T6 aircraft aluminum and are convinced that this alloy is the superior material for mountain bike construction. Compared to the 6061-T6 (AlMg1SiCu) alloy normally used in bicycle construction, 7020-T6 (AlZn4.5Mg1) has about 30% higher tensile strength and about 20% higher elastic limit. Where carbon frames can spontaneously fail in the event of an overload, NICOLAI bikes are calculated and designed to deform in a safely defined area of the frame in the event of an overload, significantly reducing the risk of serious crashes and injuries. A NICOLAI aluminum frame is designed to withstand many years even under severe competition conditions.

5 FRAME SIZES

ADAPTIVE GEOMETRY AND LOAD-DEPENDENT MODIFICATION

Most NICOLAI models are offered in 5 or even in 6 frame sizes, from XS to XXL. This provides customers between 1.55m and 2.10m with their perfect fit, a range that few other brands provide. A sizing chart for body and frame sizes can be found in our detailed Tech Sheets for each model. Building a perfectly fitting frame means much more than just extending it for each size. We take various factors into account here with regard to body proportions and rider weights, for example adapting tube cross-sections and thicknesses, modified geometry and particularly low standover heights for smaller sizes, or frame reinforcements that take into account higher weight and greater strength of XXL frame riders. Saddle position, stem height and shape, handlebar width and height serve to fine-tune geometry – albeit within a relatively limited range.

Slide AFE

DOUBLE-SIDED SLIDING DROPOUTS FOR SINGLESPEED HUBS AND HUB GEARS

Sliding dropouts on the rear of the frame allow our hardtails to use singlespeed hubs, ROHLOFF gear hubs, or hubs for PINION transmissions in conjunction with a chain or GATES Carbon Drive belt, eliminating the need for a chain or belt tensioner. The dropouts slide along horizontal grooves located on the inside of the rear milled parts. With the help of two adjustment screws the correct alignment of the rear wheel and an optimal chain or belt tension is set, then fixed on both sides by clamping bolts. Slide dropouts are available for the Boost standard with 148mm x 12mm, as well as for a 135mm x 10mm axle size. The disc brake mount is integrated into the left AFE. This means that no readjustment of the brake caliper is necessary in the event of a wheel adjustment.

EXTRALOVE

POWDER AND ANODIZED COLORS, DECORS, CUSTOMIZING, INDIVIDUALIZATION

Thanks to our own powder coating facility, local anodisers, and our in-house production line, every NICOLAI frame can be customized to meet your individual needs. We process over 50 powder coat colors applied in high-gloss or semi-gloss finish, as well as fades and our classic ‘camo’ options. Customers can even choose a separate color for each welded frame component.

TAILOR MADE

OPTIONAL DIMENSIONAL FRAME CONSTRUCTION AND CUSTOMIZATION

With our regular frame sizes, we cover a very wide range of body sizes and can offer the vast majority of bikers a perfectly fitting bike. However, there are also people who cannot find their optimal geometry within the range of standard sizes and adjustment options because, for example, they are particularly short, have exceptionally long legs or have a medical restriction. Our complete in-house production means we can offer frames specifically to measure and anything up to custom electric-assist tandems, for example.

Geolution

UNIQUE, COMPETITIVE ENDURO GEOMETRY DESIGN

Geolution is a unique geometry concept that we developed in cooperation with Chris Porter from the English brand GEOMETRON. It is based on the idea that a longer wheelbase, a slacker steering angle and a steeper seat angle make the bike faster, smoother, easier to climb, and overall, safer to ride. Climbing characteristics are improved because the steep seat angle and long front end position the rider centrally preventing front wheel lift on steep climbs. The long wheelbase and a slack steering angle, on the other hand, allow for high downhill and cornering speeds and prevent an ‘over the bars’ feeling on steep downhills.

CRAFTSMANSHIP AND ENGINEERING

Made in Germany

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.

WARRANTY AND SPARE PARTS

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.

BIKE CONFIGURATOR

We offer the Argon GEN as a custom build, where you can choose from various equipment and detail options via an online configurator and assemble the bike individually according to your own wishes and requirements.

CONFIGURE NOW

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.