The new Mercedes-Benz folding bike is expected to ship in 2008. According to the press release, "Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH developed the folding high-tech bike in partnership with top German cycle manufacturer ADP Engineering GmbH." (ADP Enginnering makes Rotwild cycles.) You will also be able to get Mercedes-Benz branded helmets, pumps, panniers, and carry bags for the bike.
The folder is a 5-speed with disc brakes, and you can keep the pannier on it when it is folded. Folded up the bike measures 800 x 800 x 280 millimeters. One feature of the bike design is that it can fit in the trunk of an open-top Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet. Also, the folding process doesn't require the rider to touch the chain or pick up the bike. You can roll it on the wheels when it is folded. The bike is designed with 30mm of fork and 50mm of frame suspension for making the ride on bumpy city roads a bit more comfortable.
When they become available through Mercedes-Benz partners worldwide, put on your Bape hoodie or your Banana Republic jacket, get a speaker for your iPod, don't forget you Louis Vuitton wallet, and take a ride on your Mercedes folder to the designer hair salon. Tip the gal reading Vanity Fair or People Magazine to look out the window now and again and let you know if any wicked children who love to make necklaces are trying to steal your trophy folding bike head badge.
Photos lifted from the Autospectator.com website.
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