The four-link concept with the shock propped up by the down tube has proved successful. The ION20, ION18 and ION14 have already done excellent jobs at world cup events. The time was ripe to complete the family with an ION 16 but the new offspring wasn’t to be just a fill in to make up the range. It was to be a newly designed bike in all areas and a pioneering work for the entire Nicolai collection including zero-stack headsets, post-mount-brakes and 142x12mm dropouts. To get there, ideas were collected for several weeks: frame geometries, travel and the first construction sketches. Following the final product specification drafts we began with the construction in early June and the first prototype was ready by the beginning of August. The geometry was an instant perfect fit. After some adjustments to the construction the rear end of the bike was solid, frictionless and low-maintenance. The ION16 was introduced at the Eurobike. The new kinematic works; the bike responds immediately. Every single push on the pedals results in acceleration. Shock tuning has been optimised. The back of the bike responds sensitively whilst remaining sturdy in travel. Autumn has arrived and the fine weather has gone. Enduro-races in Scotland. The brake pads and tire knobs are gone within two days but the new bearings run as smoothly as on the first day. The days become shorter. The first snow is falling. The serial production starts. The postman is ringing. Your ION 16 has arrived. ION 16