From F1 Aerodynamics to Off-Road Innovation: The Whyte Bikes Story
Whyte Bikes boasts a unique origin story, blending high-tech engineering with a passion for mountain biking. Founded in 1987 as ATB Sales, the company initially focused on distributing mountain bikes in the UK. However, their true calling emerged with the arrival of Jon Whyte in 1994.

Jon Whyte, a maverick design engineer with a background in Formula One aerodynamics and suspension systems, joined ATB Sales as their chief designer. He wasn’t content with simply distributing existing bikes – he envisioned creating groundbreaking mountain bikes that pushed boundaries. This vision led to the development of the Whyte Integrated Fork System (WIF) in 1996. This innovative full-suspension design, with its distinctive girder fork and twin wishbones, offered superior handling and comfort, making waves in the mountain bike scene.

Capitalizing on this success, ATB Sales launched the Whyte brand in 1999. This allowed Jon and his team even greater freedom to design radical bikes like the PRST-1 and E5. These bikes, with their unconventional aesthetics and focus on performance, cemented Whyte’s reputation for innovation and pushing the envelope.

Over the past two decades, Whyte has continued to evolve. They haven’t strayed from their core principles of performance and innovative design, but their range has expanded to cater to various riding styles. Today, Whyte offers a comprehensive selection of mountain bikes, from lightweight XC racers to capable enduro machines. They’ve also ventured into the gravel and urban bike market, applying their design expertise to create versatile and enjoyable bikes for all types of riders.

Whyte Bikes remains a testament to the power of passion and a relentless pursuit of innovation. From Jon Whyte’s initial vision to their current position as a respected brand, they continue to inspire riders with their commitment to performance, cutting-edge technology, and a touch of maverick spirit.