Mercedes-Benz, it can safely be assumed, has gained prestige and billions of dollars on the strength of its four-door machines. But the company is also in the two-wheeler business - and a trio of new bicycles are available now from dealers.
The trio - the Fitness, Trekking, and a carbon-fiber racing bicycle - are penned with the help of the Mercedes-Benz design center inSindelfingen, Germany. But the hardware itself is a joint production with Germany's ADP Engineering, which makes Rotwild-brand bikes.
The Fitness model comes in a Sport version for men, and a Comfort version for women. An aluminum frame and magnesium fork keep weight low, while the handlebar can be adjusted for individual fit. Shimano shifting and disc brakes are paired with LED safety lights - and a price tag of about $1300.
The Trekking bikes are suited, Benz says, for on-road riding as well as off-roading. A halogen light system and a load-carrying rack are the major add-ons. Sport and Comfort editions are offered, each for $1700.
For the professional rider, Mercedes has a carbon racing bike. The lightweight carbon-fiber frame gets Campangolo add-ons. It weighs a total of less than 15.5 pounds, and costs about $5250.
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