Automobile manufacturers have been leveraging their brand names on other modes of transport for years, with bicycles a common focus from companies including BMW, Audi and McLaren. Porsche has also been producing bikes for years and has now expanded its Driver's Selection range with two new additions - the Bike RS and the Bike S. Both models are 29-inch wheelers and are constructed from lightweight materials and high-end components with performance in mind.
The Bike RS -an abbreviation Porsche also uses on its four wheeled motorized vehicles that stands for Renn Sport (Race Sport) -weighs in at around 9 kg (19.8 lb) thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber, primarily in the frame, forks, handlebars, stem and seat post. Porsche claims the carbon fiber frame offers the rider both maximum stability and damping characteristics.
Other components include Shimano XTR 20 speed gearing, weight-optimized carbon brake levers, Magura hydraulic disc brakes, Crank Brothers wheels, and smooth rolling tires. The Bike RS comes in small, medium and large sizes and retails for GBP4,999 (approx. US$7,820).
The Bike S restricts the use of carbon fiber to the forks, with the frame made of 7005 hydroforming aluminum. As a result, the S is slightly heavier than its counterpart, coming in at around 11 kg (24.2 lb). The S model also features hydraulic disc brakes and a Shimano 11-speed Alfine internal hub gear system with a low-gear belted drive. It is also available in small, medium and large sizes and retails for GBP2,999 (approx. US$4,690).
Both bikes also come with an anti-theft label containing a unique code number and QR code located on the frame, which allows users to register the bike on a website, report a theft, and allow buyers of second hand bikes to check if a bike has been reported stolen before buying it.
The Bike RS and Bike S will be available from official Porsche Centers worldwide from this month.
