Mercedes-Benz Accessories has launched the Automatic Bike 2006. The new Bike features a wealth of technical modifications and a much-enhanced sporty design. With a choice of two equipment lines, it brings a whole new dimension to muscle-powered movement. Most importantly of all, the Automatic Bike is a full four kilograms lighter than last year's model, thus making the ride even more enjoyable - fully in keeping with the Mercedes-Benz tradition.
Equipped with a Shimano "Cyber-Nexus" eight-speed gear shift system and sensor-controlled lights, the bike adapts itself to the current cycling conditions. The central on-board computer mounted on the handlebar stem provides the rider with important information such as the current bike speed and the engaged gear. Furthermore, the computer collates riding parameters such as cadence (pedalling frequency) and bike speed and then selects the optimal gear ratio automatically. As an alternative to automatic mode, the rider can change gear manually using the handlebar-mounted rocker switches.
Another safety and comfort-enhancing feature is the intelligent lighting system consisting of a front and rear light, which are activated and deactivated automatically by means of a sensory system, and also incorporate a parking-light function. Plus the rear light flashes when the bike is being ridden slowly. The Mercedes-Benz Automatic Bike comes with a choice of frame heights - 46 cm or 54 cm - and is available in two equipment lines: the basic version, which does not include the lighting system or luggage rack system, retails at EUR 1690 whilst the fully-equipped version costs EUR 1890.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz Accessories