2017 Hagane Design Concept %, Page 4

2017 Hagane Design Concept %, Page 4

The pride and tradition of SAKAI’s metalworking utilizes the most advanced technology.

The history of SAKAI’s metalworking goes back to the 5th century, also known as the Kofun period. This technology of swords, kitchen knives, guns, and other precision metal tools has been handed down in Sakai from generation to generation. This has been evolved overtime to be used in the manufacturing of bicycle components. In 1921, Shimano Iron Works, our predecessor, opened their doors. Since then, the combination of history and tradition of SAKAI’s metal- working has given us the most advanced technology possi- ble, which has allowed us to achieve one innovation after another. The photo at right is “Bantam” which was released in 1979. This was the start of the history of our uncompromis- ing reel manufacturing. At Shimano we pursue the potential that only metals are capable of. “HAGANE” embodies the philosophy that has been passed on in Shimano’s reel manu- facturing and this forms the basis of our technology.

Inside view of Shimano Iron Works from around 1925