The design of limited edition bicycles and the development of breakthrough technologies is attracting the world’s major automotive companies. It is a way of showing off the advanced technical skills of their engineers through these minimalist two-wheeled vehicles. In the demanding competition circuits, every gram makes a difference. The use of lighter, last generation materials, and the optimization of high-performance aerodynamic designs demonstrate the full potential of the production techniques used in the automotive industry. The BMW and Jaguar bicycles—previously reviewed by azureazure.com— constitute a perfect example of their technical prowess.
Audi forged a partnership with the German company Lightweight, a highly regarded institution in the design and manufacture of carbon fiber parts for high-performance and elite bikes. The ample experience in aerodynamic design and applied mechanics of the Audi engineers combined with the absolute expertise of the Lightweight team deserve credit and praise for this magnificent bicycle made entirely of carbon fiber. It is a heavy-duty vehicle with a total weight of only 5.8 kilograms (12.8 pounds).
The traction and braking system were entrusted to Shimano, the renowned Japanese manufacturer of bicycle components, which contributed to the project with its Dura-Ace Di2 system of digital shits and its Dura Ace PD-9000 brakes. The ergonomic seat ESLRs Carbonio Kit was manufactured by the Italian company Selle Italia. It has a carbon fiber structure lined with the same leather used in the upholstery of the Audi R8. Finally, the color scheme introduced for the spectacular bicycle was developed by Audi Concept Design Studio Munich. Undoubtedly, the high-performance equipment, cutting-edge design and use of state of the art materials make this a bike that is unique in the market.
This is not the first time that Audi ventures into designing and manufacturing bicycles. In 2011—in collaboration with the US company Renovo—the company of the four linked rings launched a bike line called Duo, with enchanting wooden frames. The Audi Sport Racing Bike is available to the public only in outlets selected by the German firm or through its official website. Available in frame heights of 48, 51, 54, 56 and 58 centimeters, this jewel of engineering is priced around $19,450. ■
