M55 Bike has revealed a pretty impressive electric bike that not only delivers exceptional performance but great outlook as well. The first hand-built, M55 Beast electric bikes out of the workshop doors will be restricted to a limited production run of just 1,000 and are said to feature the very best that technology has to offer. In addition to the fully CNC-machined aluminum frame and carbon fiber plates, the Beast 55 benefits from Formula One stopping power, a brushless electric motor that is claimed to make uphill climbs a relatively easy affair, and Fox suspension. But as with the electric cars, the new M55 Beat is also a very expensive bike. You will need a to be Oprah rich to buy one: $35,300.
Designed for off-road use and powered by Tenergy Polimer 36.9v 20.7Ah Li-Ion cell batteries normally found in hybrid cars, the M55 Beast hybrid e-bike offers a drive system that optimizes power input via the EB-PC brushless 1.3kw (1.75hp) 5 speed electric motor giving a healthy 5.2 Nm (3.84 ft.lb) torque output. The handlebar and stem have been cast and CNC-machined, and sport ESI grips and an integrated LED headlight. M55 has secured exclusive use of Brembo disc brakes, which would otherwise normally be found on Formula1 cars but not on bikes – until now. The drive consists of a Gebhardt GP custom front chainwheel, Rohloff rear cog and a specially developed KMC X1 chain, with a Rohloff Speedhub 500/14 tandem version coupled with a Rohloff twist shifter gearing system.
The new M55 Beast recieved a more advanced suspension tailored especially for the demands of an e-bike. At the front you will find a double-crowned upside-down, motocross style fork with custom crown design for superb turning radius range, produced in the U.S. exclusively for Beast by the renowned White Brothers. At the rear M55 Beast remained at Fox suspension but instead of a spring shock, manufacturer utilize their MXR Air shock.
M55 Bike also offers super-limited edition Beast-versions equipped with extraordinary, one-sided ‘Biceps’ front suspension for €28,888 ($40,000). Since the company believes that number 55 is a magical one, every 55th piece will be a special edition with custom paintjob. The will also produce tailor-made editions on customer’s request.
The unveiling of this electronic bike shall be done in the presence of Prince Albert II of Monaco at the Top Marques Monaco, Monte Carlo (14-17 April 2011), the event, which is claimed to be the most prestigious luxury fair in the world. Also, the company will present two new models, called Daemon (an urban version) and the Shadow, little brother of the Beast, elegantly introduced by the brand If the Beast is a Murcielago, the Shadow will be a Gallardo… [M55 Bike]