By Stu Robarts, GizMag 

BMW has announced a new limited run bike. The Cruise M-Bike Limited Edition is a tribute to the company’s M Series of cars and uses what BMW calls the “characteristic Austin Yellow Metallic” of the BMW M division. Only 500 models will be made available.

Each of the 500 Cruise M-Bike Limited Editions comes with a specially made plaque and a certificate

BMW has been producing bikes for over 60 years and releases a new range each year. Its 2011 range included the Carbon Racer that was designed by the M division.

The Cruise M-Bike Limited Edition is a tribute to BMW’s M Series of cars

Although the Cruise M-Bike Limited Edition isn’t designed by the M division, it does have features inspired from BMW’s heritage. The “Bullneck” at the front of the top frame tube, for example, is borrowed from motorcycle design and echoes the fuel-tank position.

BMW says the Cruise M-Bike Limited Edition makes use of modern design and lightweight construction elements. Its frame is made of hydro-formed aluminum frame and carbon components, which are said to make it both light and stable. The frame is also said to be very rigid, which BMW says helps to ensure maximum power transmission from the lowest possible effort of the rider.

The frame of the Cruise M-Bike Limited Edition is made of hydro-formed aluminum frame and carbon components

Elsewhere, the bike has individually adjustable handlebars aimed at providing a more comfortable ride and hydraulic disc brakes from Shimano. Each model is provided with a specially made plaque and a certificate.

BMW hasn’t made any more specs available, but a listing on Germany’s ProcarShop shows a SR Suntour XCR 100 mm fork, Continental Cruise Contact tires on Rodi Airline rims, Shimano Deore gears and a Selle Royal Seta S1 seat. The listing gives the retail price at €1,400 (about US$1,500).

Source: BMW