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Audi launches wooden bike

We don't think this Audi-branded bicycle made from wood is an April Fools' Day gag...

We're used to seeing wood trim in plusher Audis, but the German firm's latest model makes more structural use of timber. Teaming up with USA-based bike maker Renovo, Audi has launched a range of wooden-framed bicycles called Duo.

Audi says the wooden bikes demonstrate its commitment to sustainable resources, while wood is also around 75 percent lighter than aluminium for the same given strength. The wooden frame also acts a shock absorber, helping to make the ride more comfortable.

Made from the same hard wood that Audi uses to trim its car interiors, the Duo comes in three forms: City, Sport and Road. The City and Sport use an internal belt-driven hub for easy maintenance, while the Road has a traditional derailleur set-up.

As you might expect of an Audi, the three bikes are not cheap, with prices starting in the USA at $6,350 for the City model and rising to $7,350 for the Sport and $7,460 for the Road. Audi has not confirmed if these limited edition bikes will make it to Ireland.

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Published on April 5, 2011