SRAM was founded in 1987 by Stan Day, Scott Thompson, Sam Patterson, and Mike Sinyard. The company's name is an acronym for the founders' initials, with the "R" standing for Ray, Stan's middle name.
SRAM's first product was the Grip Shift shifter, which was introduced in 1988. Grip Shift is a twist-grip shifter that allows riders to change gears without having to reach down to the downtube. The Grip Shift was a major innovation in the cycling industry, and it helped SRAM to quickly gain market share.
In 1991, SRAM introduced the Grip Shift shifter for mountain bikes. This was a major breakthrough, as mountain bikers had previously been limited to downtube shifters. The Grip Shift shifter for mountain bikes made it much easier for riders to change gears while riding off-road, and it helped to popularize mountain biking.
In the 1990s, SRAM continued to grow and expand its product line. The company introduced a number of new products, including derailleurs, brakes, and cranksets. SRAM also acquired a number of other companies, including RockShox and Avid.
Today, SRAM is one of the leading manufacturers of bicycle components in the world. The company's products are used by professional cyclists and recreational riders alike. SRAM is known for its innovative products and its commitment to quality.
Here are some of the key moments in SRAM's history:
SRAM is a privately held company, and its headquarters are located in Chicago, Illinois. The company employs over 3,000 people worldwide.