Sigma Computers, German Engineering At It's Finest

By: R J Smith

Sigma, the first in cycling computers





Germans are known for many contributions of quality. From producing cars like the Mercedes Benz to scientific advancements like Roentgen and the discovery of X-rays, Germans are known for being precise thinkers and sticklers for quality. Sometimes they are meticulous to the point of being anal retentive, but that works out well for us when it comes to quality cycling equipment.

Sigma Sport, a German company located in Neustadt an der Weinstrasse, is a prime example of how meticulous focus on a project can, and will, produce a quality result. Sigma Sports began in 1981 with an idea. This idea would spawn another great addition to the vast world of bicycle accessories, cycling computers. Frequently Avocet is given credit for developing the first electronic cycle computer, but if you research the dates you will see something different. Avocet brought their computer to market in 1983, whereas Sigma Sport was on the scene in 1982. So it seems Sigma Sport was the first to market with the Cyclecoach, a cycle speedometer which was the predecessor of today's modern cycling computer.

Sigma's original cycle speedometer, the Cyclecoach, looked like some sort of lab equipment. Much like today's super Sigma cycling computer, the Cyclecoach told the speed that the rider was going, calculated the total distance and maximum speed, and if you had the optional chest strap or fingertip hood heart monitor, it would give you your pulse as well. The Cyclecoach was about as big as a circa 1980's calculator, and the finger hood pulse monitor was a pain to use, but it was a serious step above the conventional tachometers of that day and age. Cyclists were more assured of accurate data than with the tachometer.

By 1986, Sigma Sport developed a wristwatch version called the Pulsecoach to get that pesky finger thing under wraps. They also released the first Velostar cycling computer that offered speed, cadence, distance, averages, tripometer and pulse. The technology was beginning to advance and Sigma was at the head of the pack.

The late 80's, early 90's brought forth the BC series computers. There are actually many people out there who still use the original BC models because they were such durable and efficient cycling computers. If you don't smash them, they just keep going.

Consistently seek advantages arising from changes in markets, science and society, Sigma saw the need to advance past the computer division and seek out new product lines to create. In 1997, Sigma expanded their product line to include lighting accessories. The Ellipsoid and the Diode were the first lighting products for Sigma. The Ellipsoid was a conventional halogen light that threw out a bright beam for night rides; it attached to your handlebars and is still in use today. The Diode is a tail light that attached to your seat post. These two lighting products set the stage for the Pava, the Hiro, the Smilus, the Paxi, the Siled Xtreme and the Quadro X of today.

Throughout the years, Sigma has continued to advance in the field of cycling accessories. From cycling computers to heart monitors, head lights to tail lights, they take natural pride combined with German ingenuity to bring us cyclists the best of the best no matter what our needs are. Whether you're a professional racer, an everyday commuter or simply a recreational rider, Sigma Sport's entire selection of products is designed to suit a wide range of athletes. Their goal is the same as it was in 1981: to offer customers the highest quality product at affordable prices.



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