Bacchetta

Overview

Bacchetta Bikes specializes in high-performance recumbent bicycles for casual riders, competitive enthusiasts, and adventure cyclists.¹² The brand is known for innovations like dual 700c wheels on recumbents, the first carbon fiber racing recumbent bike, modular improvements such as the B-Pivot, and the first carbon fiber trike produced in America.¹ It holds a prominent position in the recumbent bicycle market, recognized for redefining the category with bikes that match or exceed upright racing bike performance.¹

History

Bacchetta Bicycles, Inc. was founded in February 2002 by Rich and Mark Colliton, focusing on high-performance recumbent bikes.¹³ The company quickly gained respect in the industry for innovative designs, including the first dual 700c wheel recumbents and the Carbonaero carbon fiber racing bike.¹ In 2021, Bent Up Cycles acquired Bacchetta's assets, including inventory, designs, and production fixtures in Taiwan.¹⁶

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured in Taiwan using established high-end bike production facilities.³ Bacchetta provides designs and specs, with production involving jigs and fixtures owned post-2021 acquisition.⁶ Assembly and distribution occur through Bent Up Cycles in the US.⁴

Notable Products

• Carbonaero - First carbon fiber racing recumbent bike introduced by the brand.
• CT-2.0 - First carbon fiber trike produced in America, designed with Swedish partners.
• Giro e-Bike - Electric-assist recumbent model featured on the company website.
• B-Pivot Models - Recumbents with modular B-Pivot bearing system for improved handling.
• Dual 700c Wheel Recumbents - Pioneering large-wheel design for enhanced speed and performance.

Reputation

Bacchetta is respected among recumbent enthusiasts for innovation, high performance rivaling upright bikes, and quality construction.¹³ Professionals note its growth from startup to a leading name in the niche market over two decades.³ Some discussions highlight ongoing production and design continuity post-acquisition as positive for reliability.⁶ Criticisms are limited in available sources, focusing mainly on the specialized recumbent niche rather than broad market appeal.²