A History of Reinvention
The long road of the Orbea story contains some twists and turns, some strenuous climbs and descents. It is a story of reinvention. Read on and join us for the ride.
Who we are today is not ours alone. We are because they were, and those who come after will be because of what we choose now. We carry not just a legacy, but a responsibility: to honor what was built and shape something better for those who follow.
A Land That Shapes Character
Since 1840 — Basque Country
Our journey began in the heart of the vibrant Basque Country. This spectacular and rugged landscape shaped our values and our passion for both teamwork and independence.
Eibar, the Origin of It All
The chosen path of this family-owned company started with gun manufacturing in Eibar, where craftsmanship and precision defined every piece. From the very beginning, customisation and high-quality products were at the core, with each piece crafted for individual clients.
Skilled artisans elevated firearms through intricate engraving and damascene techniques, inlaying fine gold details that transformed them into both functional tools and works of art.
Orbea brothers, founders of the Orbea gun company
Damascened pistol with gold inlay
Copy of the blueprint accompanying the company’s incorporation document, 1917
First Pedal Strokes
1931 — Beginning of the Cycling Heritage
In 1931, the road ahead became clear: Orbea was destined to be a bicycle builder. As demand for arms declined after the First World War, production gradually shifted toward new needs and markets. Building on its expertise in metalwork and precision manufacturing, Orbea diversified into bicycles, prams, and other everyday goods, marking the transition from weapons to mobility.
Competition as a Starting Point
This transition was not only a necessity, but also a turning point. Working with lightweight tubing and functional design laid the foundation for what would become a lasting cycling legacy. From the very first bicycles, competition was at the heart of Orbea’s development, understood as the most demanding environment in which to innovate, improve performance and keep evolving. Beyond being the ultimate testing ground, it also became the ideal showcase for everything the cooperative was capable of creating.
Over time, that development left a lasting mark on the cycling community, helping strengthen established races and inspiring the creation of new events, associations, clubs, shops and other initiatives. Cycling gradually became deeply rooted in the region, evolving into an essential part of its identity and a shared passion for competition.
More than just a cyclist, a symbol of our evolution. Manuel Cañardo, forging the DNA of Orbea
Ready for the road. Orbea riders, 1940
Vuelta a España caravan, 1955
The roots of our story: the early teams that shared the dream of racing
Owners of Our Own Destiny
1969 — The Birth of the Cooperative
Despite the progress, the road was not always easy. Economic difficulties eventually led the Orbea family to the decision to close the business. Rather than accept that fate, the workforce united to transform the family business into a cooperative. In 1969, they took control to secure Orbea’s future. Teamwork, independence and determination proved to be a winning combination. Since then, the cooperative has continued to reinvent itself through every challenge.
Mallabia – Building the Future
As the need for growth became evident, production moved beyond Eibar to Mallabia. A new environment, with space to expand and adapt, allowed the company to face the challenges of a changing industry. From this new base, where we continue to build and expand our future today, the foundations were firmly established, alongside a renewed focus on competition.
Juan Carlos Fdez de Mendiola, one of the founding members of the cooperative, on the land where the current factory in Mallabia would later be built
Orbea headquarters exterior
Inside the Orbea offices
Orbea design area, where new ideas and concepts are developed
Inside the orbea testing area, where performance and durability are evaluated
Orbea painting area, where colour and finish define each bike
Inside the Orbea assembly area, where components become complete bikes
Orbea showroom with a selection of models on display
1971 — Multiplying Impact
The cooperative became part of the shared Mondragon Group project as an independent organization. This allowed it to strengthen its structure while joining a network built on collaboration, solidarity between cooperatives and long-term social development within the region.
Built Together
This story has been shaped by many—from the dealers who trusted in the brand and brought it closer to their communities, to the people behind every product, and the riders who have placed their trust in every ride and every event. Each has played a part in carrying this journey forward.
Thank you for being part of it. The journey continues—ride on with us.
Orbea workers’ photograph, 1913
Founding members and their families gathered at the factory entrance to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the cooperative
At an industry trade show, strengthening relationships with our global network of dealers and importers
Orbea Monegros bike marathon, desert race
To the suppliers, press, teams, ambassadors, and partners who have been part of this industry’s journey, thank you for your contribution and trust
The Road Ahead
From Winning Minds to Winning Hearts
With the future wide open, the next challenge was to become a global competitor. Riders connected with a shared set of values, each following their own path. After almost two centuries, the journey continues—moving forward with purpose and building a legacy shaped by independence, commitment, and belief.
