Alfa Romeo Rolls Out The 4C of Bicycles

11 years ago - 7 October 2013, Autoblog

We've seen automakers partner with bicycle manufacturers on numerous sets of wheels in the past. Some tempt and disappoint, but this strikes us as one of the cooler auto-branded bikes we've seen. (But then this writer has always been partial to Italian style.)

Born of a collaboration between the Alfa Romeo Style Centre and Compagnia Ducale, the 4C IFD bicycle is designed to complement Alfa's new lightweight sports car with an "Innovative Frame Design". Alfa says the frame is shaped like an inverted 4 and the cross-section of the carbon-fiber half-tube is shaped like a C, but gimmicks aside, the result is an incredibly light ride that weighs in at just 15 pounds.

Crafted entirely by hand in Italy, the 4C IFD bike features a Deda Elementi Crono handlebar, Campagnolo brakes, gears, chain and frame, forks, saddle and wheels all made of carbon fiber. Pricing starts at 3,500 euros and Alfa says that, in addition to Europe and Asia, the bike will be sold in America. Of course if its availability depends on the marque's return to the US market, we wouldn't hold our breath for too long – but then we don't have nearly five grand to spend on a bike, anyway.