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Ever since the company was founded in 1976, Öhlins has represented
the very pinnacle of suspension technology and firmly rooted itself as
an intricate part of the motorsport industry, underpinning countless
world titles. That very technology has subsequently been adopted
not only as the gold standard of aftermarket suspension, but is also
by car and motorcycle manufacturers around the world.
Back in the 1960’s, Kenth Öhlin was an up-and-coming motocross
rider and showed an innate talent for mechanics. He knew how to
bring the best out of his material and soon he saw himself engaged
in modifying his competitor’s bikes. By the time he started his
business he had already designed exhaust pipes, engines and – of
course – shock absorbers.
Öhlins soon became synonymous with advanced suspension. The
products were not only superior in terms of technology, but as Mr.
Öhlin was, and is, a very meticulous man the quality was always
outstanding. The first world championship was won already in
1978, as Russian Gennady Moiseev took the 250cc title
on an Öhlins equipped KTM. Since then, more
than another 150 have followed.
The success continued in road racing and soon also in the automotive
segment, in racing as well as in rally, all adding to the motorsport
pedigree. But don’t think that Öhlins was content, not for a minute.
The company continued to grow, adding electronically controlled,
semi-active suspension to its portfolio under the trademark CES.
Today, this technology has revolutionized the car industry and can be
found in a wide range of products from premium car manufacturers.
In the 1980’s, Öhlins’ achievements got the
attention of industrial giants and in 1987,
Öhlins was acquired by Yamaha. Under
the Japanese ownership, Öhlins had the
necessary financial stability to develop into
a dominating player in the industry. Twenty
years later, Öhlins was considered better off
on its own legs and Kenth Öhlin regained the
company he once had started.
Today, Öhlins is more than ever in the forefront of advanced
suspension technology, covering areas from top tier motorsport to
original equipment manufacturing. All with the same performance,
quality and attention to detail.
HISTORY
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