Porsche is taking its electrification ambitions to two wheels.
The German automaker unveiled two electric bikes Thursday, alongside the global debut of the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, the latest variant to its EV flagship.
Both electric bikes are said to be inspired by the Taycan, Porsche’s first electric vehicle that kicked off its broader EV ambitions. While the underlying inspiration and foundation are the same — both have have full-suspension carbon frames — each bike has a slightly different purpose and customer.
The bikes are a collective effort. They were developed in collaboration with e-bike expert Rotwild and use components from well-known bike parts manufacturers Shimano, Magura and Crankbrothers. Add high-design touches from Porsche — the spit and polish — and customers get a luxe e-bike priced between $8,500 and $10,700.
The Porsche eBikes, both of which are manufactured in Dieburg, Germany, will be available at Porsche dealers and select specialist bicycle outlets this spring, and will come in three frame sizes.
The Porsche eBike Sport is priced at $10,700, while the “cheaper” Porsche eBike Cross costs $8,549.
The Porsche eBike Sport is designed as a daily rider. The bike is equipped with a new Shimano EP8 motor, which provides motor support up to 25 km/h (about 15 mph), a Shimano electronic gear shifting system and Magura high-performance brakes that are integrated into the handlebars. The Sport bike also has M99 LED lights from Supernova, which are embedded in the handlebar stem and aerodynamic seat post.
In addition, high-quality suspension components such as the Magura upside-down suspension fork and the Fox rear shock absorber, in combination with smooth-running tires, provide a sporty and balanced ride on asphalt or gentle terrain.
Meanwhile, the Porsche eBike Cross is aimed at riders who might be seeking rougher roads. The Cross has a new motor developed by Shimano, Magura-MT Trail high-performance brakes with extra-large, heat-resistant brake discs for deceleration and a mechanical Shimano XT 12-fold shifting system for quick gear changes. The seat post is hydraulically adjustable from Crankbrothers. The handlebars also have a Shimano color display, which shows not only speed but also distance and range in real time.
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