wethepeople

Who or what is Wethepeople?

Wethepeople (WTP) is a globally renowned rider-owned BMX brand based in Cologne, Germany, founded in 1996. They are known for their extremely high- quality and well-designed complete bikes and aftermarket parts. WTP is part of the WeMakeThings family, alongside sister brands Salt, SaltPlus, Eclat, Radio, and Fuse Protection.

Who founded Wethepeople and when?

Wethepeople was originally founded around 1990 (some sources also say late 80s/early 90s) by friends Stephan Prantl, Lars Dorsch, and Stephan Rose in Cologne. Frustrated with the BMX products available at the time (often "neon uniform nonsense"), they wanted to create products that reflected the new, independent BMX attitude.

What did Wethepeople start with?

The brand started with strictly limited T-shirt designs distributed at underground jams, parties, and among friends, quickly gaining cult status in the German scene. In parallel, Stephan Prantl designed the world's first 14mm hubs under the name "Point" (later "P Products").

What happened after the initial phase?

After Lars Dorsch focused more on the DJ scene and Stephan Rose on his agency, Stephan Prantl continued the brand. In 1994, he opened the BMX shop "Busy P" (a nickname given to him by Mat Hoffman at the 1994 World Championships, as Prantl organized the contest and competed himself). Shortly after, he reactivated Wethepeople, this time focusing on "real" BMX parts and complete bikes instead of just T-shirts. The "Busy P" shop later evolved into "wtp Distribution", which for many years was Germany's largest BMX wholesaler.

Who took over Wethepeople later?

Around 1996, Klaus Dyba and Harry Schmid took over the Wethepeople brand. Under their leadership, WTP developed into the globally recognized force for complete bikes and parts that it is today, with Harry Schmid being primarily responsible for the design (as he still is). Klaus Dyba left the company at a later date due to personal reasons.

What does the "WTP Style" stand for?

WTP represents "German Engineering" in BMX. They are known for their extremely thoughtful, clean, and progressive designs. As a brand from Cologne, they have always been at the epicenter of the European street scene, helping to popularize a technical, precise, and often "clean" riding style worldwide through their team.

What makes Wethepeople products special?

Wethepeople's specialty is their holistic approach to design and quality. Their complete bikes are often considered the best in the industry, as every component (including those from Salt, SaltPlus, and Eclat) is designed by the same in-house team. Their aftermarket parts (like the "Battleship" frame) are known for innovative features, high-quality materials, and rigorous testing by their pro team.

What does Wethepeople primarily manufacture?

WTP offers a comprehensive range of BMX products for Street, Park, and Dirt:

• Complete Bikes: A massive range covering all skill levels, from beginners (e.g., Nova, Arcade) to mid-levels (Justice, Crysis) and high-end pro signature models (e.g., Battleship, Envy).
• Kids Bikes: A full range of 12", 16", and 18" bikes.
• Aftermarket Parts: High-end frames, forks, handlebars, cranks, stems, hubs, and more for pro-level builds.

Who are Wethepeople products suitable for?

WTP is for every BMX rider. Their complete bikes are a top recommendation for beginners due to their quality and geometry, while their high-end complete bikes and aftermarket parts are aimed at serious amateur and professional riders who demand the best in design and durability.

Who rides for the Wethepeople Team?

WTP has always had a legendary and diverse pro team. The roster includes or has included top riders from around the world, such as Felix Prangenberg, Jordan Godwin, Dan Kruk, Dillon Lloyd, and many more, who are all heavily involved in product development.