The two German industry players introduced a new trekking e-bike platform with Pinion’s MGU drivetrain.
German distributor Messingschlager and gearbox brand Pinion announced a partnership designed to give smaller e-bike brands access to premium drivetrain technology, specifically Pinion’s MGU system, without the usual constraints. By offering a complete trekking e-bike platform with a frame built around Pinion’s integrated motor and gearbox, the initiative removes one of the most common barriers in the industry: minimum order quantities.
“Usually to work with high-end systems, brands are expected to commit to at least 250 units. That’s a major obstacle for small OEMs,” said Hannes Pörtner, assistant to the management at Pinion. “With our solution, that requirement disappears.”
Instead, Messingschlager offers a complete and pre-engineered frame platform, enabling small and mid-size brands to integrate a premium motor system without having to meet industrial-scale volume commitments. Prototypes will be available in September, with serial production planned for the first quarter of 2026. The first frame is designed specifically for trekking bikes, but a second variant—possibly SUV or MTB-oriented—is already in development.
“This is currently the only frame that allows you to build a trekking e-bike with this kind of system. It’s not only functional but also beautifully designed,” said Pörtner. Positioned as an alternative to both low-cost systems and volume-restricted suppliers, the project targets quality-focused brands looking to scale responsibly. “It’s our product and it’s about offering serious performance without excluding smaller players,” Pörtner concluded. Laurent Garrigues
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