Company History
1921
Shozaburo Shimano establishes Shimano Iron Works.
In February 1921, he opened Shimano Iron Works in Higashi Minato in Sakai City when he was 26 years old. On the site of a demolished celluloid factory, he rented a nearly 40-square-meter area. The monthly rent was 5 yen. At that time, the new establishment had only a single lathe, measuring about 1.8 meters long. He had borrowed that machine from Sano Iron Works, benefiting from his friendship with its owner.
1922
Begins production of the bicycle freewheel.
By the time he founded his own business, Shozaburo Shimano had already decided to produce freewheels. Of all bicycle components, freewheels entailed the highest level of technology to produce.
1940
The name is changed to Shimano Iron Works Co., Ltd.
In 1940, Shimano Iron Works, Ltd. was founded with Shozaburo Shimano as its first president. The number of employee was about 300.
Shozaburo Shimano becames the first president.
On January 15,1940, the new corporation's first organisational meeting was held. Then Shozaburo Shimano becomes the first president.
1951
The company is renamed Shimano Industrial Co., Ltd.
In February 1951, Shimano Iron Works absorb Shimano Bicycle Company, and the Company's name was changed to Shimano Industrial Company.
1956
Production of external speed changer begins.
1957
Production of internal speed changer (3-speed Hub) begins.
Research on cold forging begins.
Shimano Industrial began research into cold forging in 1957, spurred by an interest in a trade fair exhibit by a West Germany company.
1958
Shozaburo Shimano passes away.
In September 1958, Shozaburo Shimano passed away.
Shozo Shimano becomes the second president.
1961
First time we display the 3-speed hub at the International Show in USA.
We display the 3-speed hub at the International Toy and Cycle Show held in New York City. Bicycle sales in the United States are brisk.
1965
Shimano American Corporation is established in New York.
As the continued existence of Shimano in the USA market seemed to be assured, the company established Shimano American Corporation with office in New York City. Yoshizo Shimano becomes the president.
1970
Shimano Yamaguchi Co., Ltd. (present Shimonoseki Factory) is established in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
The production system was strengthened by this new factory which would produce coaster brakes at a starting output of 50,000 units per month.
Fishing Tackle Division is launched.
Fishing Tackle Division was launched as a second business pillar which aligns to the corporate vision: contributing to promotion of public health by encouraging outdoor activities.
1971
The DUX series of spinning reels is in the market.
1972
Shimano Europa GmbH. is established in Dusseldorf, West Germany.
Stock is listed on 2nd Section of the Osaka Securities Exchange.
1973
Shimano Racing Team is launched.
In addition to sponsoring actively to cycling team in Europe, Shimano set up own domestic cycling team, Shimano racing Team, in Japan.
Shimano (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. is established.
It was established as the first oversea factory located in Jurong Industrial Estate in Singapore.
Stock listing rises to the 2nd Securities Exchange of Tokyo.
Stock listing rises to the 1st Section of both Tokyo and Osaka Securities Exchanges.
DURA-ACE series of road racing components are released.
1974
Positron is in the market.
It is equipped with the Positron system which has indexed shifting mechanism.
1976
The DURA-ACE 10 series are in the market.
1978
Bantam series of reels are released in the USA.
An ultra-lightweight precision reel targeted at American bass fishermen was introduced to the American market at the AFTMA show.
DURA-ACE EX 7200 is in the market.
1979
Shimano American Corporation is relocated to New Jersey.
1980
DURA-ACE AX 7300 is released.
Shimano introduces DURA-ACE AX 7300 which is aiming for reducing the aerodynamic drag at IFMA show at Koln in W.Germany.
1981
Kumamoto Fishing Tackle is established.
The stock of Dunphy Holding Pty. Ltd. is acquired.
1982
The first SHIMANO 105 series is in the market.
The first Deore XT is in the market.
1983
Shimano Canada Ltd. is established.
BB-X is in the market.
SHIMANO 600EX is in the market.
1984
The first Shimano Greenpia Road (present Shimano Suzuka Road Race) is held.
Shimano initiates Shimano Greenpia Road which is the event for offering enjoyment and fun for sport cycle in order to popularize the sport cycle in Japan.
Shimano Japan Cup is held.
Shimano initiates Shimano Japan Cup which is fishing competition for offering enjoyment and fun for fishing.
DURA-ACE 7400 series with Shimano Index System (SIS) is released.
A remarkable function of DURA-ACE 7400 is Shimano Index System (SIS) that enable secure positioning of the speed change gear by a single action.
1985
Shimano Europe is relocated to Hilden, West Germany.
The Titanos series of new alloy reels are in the market.
Titanos utilizes an advances composite construction which combined titanium fiber, carbon fiber, and resin materials.
1986
Shimano American Corporation merge with Shimano Sales Corporation and move to Irvine, California from New Jersey.
New Deore XT series are in the market.
The New Deore XT components with SIS for mountain bikes are introduced four years after the original Deore XT group.
Sante series are in the market.
The basic concept of developing Sante is to seek beauty of components design. In other words, Sante is designed to attract a wide variety of potential user, rather than a handful of professional racers.
SHIMANO 105 series with SLR are in the market.
New Shimano 105 series is introduced with Shimano Linear Response (SLR) brake system which is to give the cyclist more control over the caliper brakes.
1987
SHIMANO 600 Ultegra series are in the market.
This series incorporates all of DURA-ACE group, including 7-speed SIS.
1988
Andy Hampsten (Seven-Eleven Team) wins the Giro d'Italia with DURA-ACE.
Shimano U.K. Ltd. is established, starts sales of fishing tackle in Europe.
The FROM which is rod order system for deep bodied crucian carp fishing is in the market.
Fine Carbon α Tokei and Fine Carbon α Ayu Zoom rods are released.
The unique feature of the Zoom rod is its adjustable length which allows it to be used for different types of fishing as local conditions demand.
Racing Shoes SH-R100 are in the market.
1989
Shimano Rinkai Distribution Centre is established.
Shimano Benelux B.V. and Shimano Europe Fishing Holding B.V. are established.
STI (Shimano Total Integration) concept Rapid fire Remote shift lever for offroad bikes is released.
Rapid fire system which is the first STI allows the cyclist to shift gears, operate the brakes, and steer without ever removing the hands from the handlebars.
Nexus is released as a new brand of fishing gear.
Shimano starts Nexus fishing gear to more coordinate with Shimano fishing tackle and clothing for enjoying fishing.
1990
Shimano Components (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. is established.
Shimano Italy Fishing S.r.l. is established.
Shimano Pedaling Dynamics (SPD) is in the market.
A line of Shoes and Pedals are called SPD designed to be ideal for both pedaling efficiency and for walking.
DURA-ACE (7400 series) with Dual Control Lever is released.
The dual-control lever incorporates a shifter mechanism into the brake lever, making it possible to change speeds without removing one's hands from handlebars.
1991
Corporate name is changed from Shimano Industrial Co., Ltd. to Shimano Inc.
PT Shimano Batam is established.
The XTR series of mountain bike racing components is in the market.
XTR is the first line of mountain bike components for professional racers.
The first SHIMANO RE-EX CROSS COUNTRY is held.
On the occasion of 70th anniversary, "Closer to Nature, Closer to People" was selected as Shimano's official corporate message.
1992
Keizo Shimano becomes third president.
The cycle center (Bicycle Museum) opens.
With the cooperation of Sakai city where Shimano Inc. is located, it is established on the area next to Daisen Park.
Shimano (Kunshan) Bicycle Components Co., Ltd. is established.
The 1st model of STELLA is launched. Shimano Balance Lock (SBL) is released.
Shimano Australia Pty.Ltd. is established.
1993
DURA-ACE 7410 is in the market.
1995
Yoshizo Shimano becomes fourth president.
The 1995 model of STELLA is in the market.
Equipped with SHIP (Smooth and Hi-Power System) to vastly improve reeling.
1996
DURA-ACE 7700 is in the market.
7700 series are developed after thorough review of the previous derailleur system based on the philosophy of "Stress-Free".
1997
G.Loomis,Inc joins Team Shimano.
Auto D is in the market.
1998
The 1998 model of STELLA is in the market.
3rd model is developed extremely thin body based on a conceptual breakthrough: rather than minimizing the reel parts, the development team sought ways to envelop the parts in the most compact manner.
The Aifie golf shop is opened.
DURA-ACE 25th anniversary model is in the market.
This series is a special DURA-ACE released in commemoration of 25 year since its introduction in to the market.
Shimano HB system for snowboards is in the market.
Flightdeck is in the market.
Installation of an operation switch on the lever bracket enables the rider to control this without releasing his/her hand from the handlebar.
1999
The first Shimano Motegi Road Race is held.
WH-7700, wheelsets for road bikes, are launched.
2000
WH-M959, wheelsets for mountain bikes, are launched.
The Millenium model of STELLA is released.
The Stella Millenium Edition, which was male-to-order, featured Super Slow Oscillation System, designed to increase casting distance. This was also the first model to incorporate a screw handle. The entire body was plated and had "Millenium Edition" engraved by laser.
2001
Yozo Shimano becomes fifth president.
The 2001 model of STELLA is released.
Shimano further developed Super Slow Oscillation System employed in Millenium Edition.The development team also identified the effect of the winding strokes on anglers' feel. Awide varaiety of lineups enable users to select the spool of most suitable diameter for each rod.
Shimano (Shanghai) Bicycle Components Co., Ltd. is established.
Shimano Czech Republic s.r.o. is established.
Shimano France Composants Cycles S.A.S. is established.
2002
Shimano (Taiwan) Co.,Ltd. is established.
2003
Shimano (Kunshan) fishing Tackle Co., Ltd. is established.
Shimano (Tianjin) Bicycle Components Co., Ltd. is established.
2004
STELLA 2004 model is in the market.
A stainless steel one-piece bail was employed to take advantage of thin bails. Other advanced features include titanium coated guard fins and a change in the position of stopper switches.
DURA-ACE 7800 series is in the market.
The DURA-ACE 7800 series components are developed with "For 100% Power Transmission Efficiency" as a catchword. This series consisted of 10-speed rear drive trains, HOLLOTECH Ⅱcranksets, ergonomic dual control levers, and other higher performance components.
2005
"Shimano Nordic Cycle AB", "ShimanoNordic Cycle OY" and "Shimano Nordic Cycle AS" are established in Scandinavian Peninsula.
2006
Shimano (Lianyungang) Industrial Co., Ltd. are established.
ACCU-3D, highly-functional cycling wear, is in the market.
2007
Shimano Latin America Representacao Comerial Ltda is established.
R&P Pawlak Sp. Z o. o. is established.
STELLA 2007 model is in the market.
The new model featured an AR-C spool, designed to increase the casting distance by controlling the spool unwinding resistance. Moreover, this mechanism was effective in rescuing line troubles at the time of casting. To prevent corrosion of the bearings especially by saltwater, the new model also featured Anti-Rust Bearings (S A-RB).
2008
The stock of Innovative Textiles Inc. is acquired.
The stock of DashAmerica inc. (Pearl Izumi) is acquired.
DURA-ACE 7900 series is released.
The 7900 series components were developed under the concept of "Evolution of Perfection". A derailleur comprising these components embedded the shift cable completely. Its crankset consisted of a HOLLOWGRIDE (hollow gear) in addition to a HOLLOWTECH Ⅱ. All other components were also reviewed for optimal design.
2009
Lifestyle Gear Division is launched.
Shimano Rinkai Distribution Center renames Shimano sales Co., Ltd..
Marketing of rowing equipment (stretcher and shoes) are in the market.
Electronic Shifting System DURA-ACE 7970 is in the market.
A new technology called "Digital Integrated Intelligence (or Di2 for short) was introduced into DURA-ACE. The DURA-ACE 7900 series equipped with this electronic shifting system provide racers with a "complete stress-free" function.
2010
XEFO is in the market.
The XTR incorporated Dyna-sys is in the market.
STELLA 2010 model incorporated the X-SHIP is released.
The new model incorporated the X-SHIP gear system, developed to achieve ultimate rotation performance. Taking advantage of Shimano's excellent metal processing technologies, particularly its high-precision machining technology, our production team carefully finished metal case. The result was even smoother rotation of the gears.
Shimano STEPS ,the first components for power-assisted bicycle, is released.
2011
Shimano (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. is established.
Opening of Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Osaka, Japan on the second floor of SIC head office building.
2012
DURA-ACE 9000 series is released.
DURA-ACE 9000 series have been fully re-engineered across every system. Highlights include a robust four-arm cranksets, the new SLR-EV brake system and a new 11-speed drive train.
2013
Shimano (Philippines) Inc. is established.
2014
STELLA 2014 model is released.
MicroModule gear technology to the worm shaft idle gear reduces oscillation vibration. This is an incredible breakthrough in design and delivers an outstanding level smoothness without sacrificing strength or durability.
XTR M9000, M9020 series is released.
XTR Di2 M9050 series is released.
SHIMANO Cycling World is opened in Singapore.
First experiential and interactive world of cycling in Singapore. Named Shimano Cycling World, the 650sqm centre is also its’ world’s first cycling gallery. It is located next to the Singapore Sports Museum in the opened Singapore Sports Hub.
SHIMANO SPORTS CAMERA is released.
"Shimano Menat Spor Etkinlikleri Spor Malzemeleri ve Ekipmanlari Ticaret Limited Sirketi" is established in Turkey.
"Shimano Bisiklet Parca ve Ekipmanlari Satis Servis Ticaret Anonim Sirketi" is established in Turkey.
"Shimano Italy Bicycle Components S.r.l" is established.
2015
"HAGANE" concept is launched.
HAGANE is Shimano’s reel design concept which aims at impressive smoothness and overwhelming strength.
"Shimano Uruguay S.A." is established.
Shimano American Corporation 50th Anniversary.
2016
The DURA-ACE R9100 series (road racing components) equipped with power meter are released.
Shimano Shimonoseki Factory Intelligent Plant (SSF_IP) is completed.
Rinkai Logistics Center (RLC) is completed.
2017
SHIMANO SQUARE opens in GRAND FRONT OSAKA
SHIMANO SQUARE opens in Grand Front Osaka (Kita-ku, Osaka City) with the aim of communicating the attraction of its products along with creating and offering new urban sport lifestyle through cycling and fishing.
2018
XTR M9100 series is released
Pursuing the Specific Demands of Each Mountain Bike Category.
STELLA 2018 model is released
The New Shimano Stella has the smoothest and most efficient drive train Shimano has ever engineered with unprecedented durability. The introduction of the newly engineered Micro Module II with unique gear teeth and surface design delivers amazing smoothness and durability above the already unmatched Shimano HAGANE gear quality.
Shimano Argentina S.A.U. is established in Argentina
2019
SHIMANO EXPERIENCE CENTER opens in Valkenburg, The Netherlands
An experience-based exhibition facility focused on the theme of cycling, fishing, and rowing, and where Shimano’s latest technologies can be touched physically has opened within the “PAR’ COURSE” commercial facility.
Shimano’s first ever Gravel Road Bike Components, SHIMANO GRX is launched
The Components for long gravel rides along unpaved roads. A total of 4 group sets, including 3 grades based on how one rides as well as a Di2 mounted series, is introduced. Includes features especially meant for riding along unpaved roads.
2020
Technology Innovation Center at the headquarters is completed.
SHIMANO IBERIA, S.L. is established.
2021
Shimano celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Taizo Shimano becomes sixth president.
