Bicycles: Moving Minimalism
December 1, 2007
The Lancia MomoDesign Urban Bike is not your average two-wheeler. The limited production bike received the Silver Award in the Eurobike Award 2007 competition, but nothing less should be expected from a product of the flourishing partnership between Lancia and MomoDesign, Italian car manufacturer and automotive accessories designer, respectively.
The Urban Bike was created with a concentration on style, performance, and comfort. Drawing from Lancia’s and MomoDesign’s extensive experience, automotive influences are prevalent in the bike’s design. Maximum lightness guided the selection of materials used in its construction: carbon-fiber monocoque with titanium reinforcements; magnesium (found in Formula 1 and racing motorcycles) anti-slip pedals; and satin-finish aluminum rims with flat spokes provide a bit of flash and distinction. They also serve a practical purpose, as aluminum won’t rust.
Dressed in basic black, the Urban Bike exudes a quiet elegance. Frau leather lines the seat and grips, which adds a touch of color to the aesthetic. The Shimano 8-speed gearbox is hidden in the rear wheel hub, maintaining the frame’s clean lines. This placement, however, does not make its power less discernible, as it assists riders when traversing flat or steep surfaces. And if you want to take a more active approach in your commute, you don’t have to worry about sullying your office attire—the belt transmission affords not only "smoother and more comfortable pedaling," it is also not as messy as a chain. Such refinement, high technology, and attention to detail make this bike suitable for city living.
MomoDesign, www.momodesign.com
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