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Writer's pictureTim Grootjans

My 6.5-Year Journey from E-Bike Novice to Industry Pioneer

My journey as an e-bike developer has been a whirlwind of innovation, challenges, and relentless pursuit of crafting the perfect ride. Over the past 6.5 years, I've transitioned from learning the ropes in China's e-bike production industry to launching my own company, ZAET, in the cycling heartland of the Netherlands, and now shaping the future at CY:ONS.


The China Chapter: It all started 6.5 years ago when I was living in China, where I was deeply involved in the production side of the industry. This period was crucial; it was where I not only honed my technical skills but also developed a keen understanding of what makes an e-bike functional, reliable, and desirable.


ZAET’s Journey:

With a treasure trove of knowledge and bursting with ideas, I returned to the Netherlands about four years ago. Here, I took the bold step of channeling my passion and expertise into creating ZAET. This venture was born from a vision to integrate cutting-edge technology with the sustainable ethos of Dutch cycling culture.


Since its inception, ZAET has been a platform where creativity meets practicality. We’ve tackled projects that range from developing high-performance e-bikes to enhancing urban mobility with stylish, efficient designs. Each project under ZAET was a stepping stone towards greater innovation, pushing me to constantly refine our designs and adapt to evolving market needs.


The CY:ONS Era: Most recently, my career path led me to CY:ONS, where I now pour all my experience into pioneering e-bike designs as the Chief Product Developer. At CY:ONS, we are dedicated to making cycling safer and more enjoyable through innovative design and technology. This role is a perfect blend of my past experiences and my ambitions, allowing me to influence the future of e-bikes in a company that thrives on pushing the limits of what’s possible.


Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities to explore new materials, incorporate smarter technologies, and continue advocating for sustainable transport solutions. My journey from an eager learner in China to an industry innovator in the Netherlands has shaped my approach to e-bike development—a blend of global insights and local impact.


Conclusion:

Thank you for joining me on this incredible ride. Each bike I create carries a story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Stay connected through this blog and our updates at www.zaet.nl and www.cy-ons.com for more on how we’re driving the future of cycling, one innovation at a time.


Cheers to many more miles and new adventures on two wheels!


Warmly, Tim Grootjans

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