About Kappstein

Kappstein is a German engineering company developing high-performance bicycle drivetrain technologies, transmission systems and specialized mechanical components.

Kappstein’s engineering roots include early e-bike motor development. In the early 2000s, the company’s founders worked with several major European bicycle manufacturers and contributed to the early development of the European e-bike market.

Rather than separating design from manufacturing, the company develops its engineering philosophy through direct practice — combining industry experience with in-house precision machining and applied mechanical research, where concepts are validated through real hardware.

Kappstein develops drivetrain systems, hubs, and gearbox solutions using a first-principle engineering approach that evaluates geometry, load paths, contact mechanics, and system interaction rather than relying on inherited component assumptions. More details about this approach can be found on our Our Technology page.

The product portfolio includes Track, MTB, and Gravel Bike chainrings, the compact Doppio two-speed gearbox, and specialized hub systems such as the Mute-Hub, Whisper Hub, and electronically shifted two-speed hub. These components are designed to address specific mechanical limitations in efficiency, durability, and engagement behaviour, and are used by demanding riders and professional teams, particularly in track cycling where stable power transmission and reliability are essential.

Across all developments, Kappstein focuses on purposeful innovation: new component architectures are introduced where measurable performance or service-life improvements can be achieved, while the company’s precision manufacturing capabilities and technical metalworking services support both its own products and specialized external engineering projects.