9K-Project, part 2

04.2008

The 9k Project has been carried out, an assembly of a MetaPhysic into the 9 kilos range with first quality parts.

We have began with a MetaPhysic CF framekit. Carbon fiber seats from this kit are 500g (1.1lb) on average. Depending on rider's weight this can be personalized with a lighter or reinforced seat. In this case we opted for a seat of 450g(1lb), suitable for riders up to 85kg (187.4lb)

Although parts are the ones standard on the kit, we didn't want to let pass this opportunity to do a bit of experimentation. So we applied an extra machinning to the stem clamp, now it weights only 10g (0.02lb) less, but the experience is worthy to know how to lighten it in the near future.

In the components department, main parts required are wheels and transmission. We opted for a Mavic Ksyrium SL wheelset, wich is very light and the price is still reasonable.

For the transmission we wanted a specific 10 speeds road group with a compact 34/50 at the front and a specially dedicated flat handlebar shifter. Here there are two main possibilities: Campagnolo and the new offer from Sram. After checking these two options, Campagnolo has a better quality-weight-cost ratio, so a Campy MetaPhysic it's on its way.

These components are black as standard color and the bike looks nicely black everywhere. The final touch is given by the golden KMC X-10 SL chain, which saves quite weight compared with other chains, and that's even more important on the long chain of a recumbent.

So, how is the final weight? Well, it's 9495g (20.93lb), or 9230g (20.35lb) if you prefer to see weight numbers without cushion.

Pictures please? Yes, we will post pics of this beauty, but by now the visitors of the Spezi fair will be the first fortunates to have a closer look at it. So if you will attend the show, don't let pass the opportunity to check it. We will be in Hall 3, Booth 20.

Price? we estimate that this assembly can be performed by any specialized dealer at around 3150€.

All in all, 9k MetaPhysic is a good example of MetaBikes innovative concept, joining together the best from upright and recumbent worlds.

This is the complete specs list:

Frame: MetaPhysic framekit CF medium size

Fork: Custom carbon 700c with carbon steerer

Wheel set: Mavic Ksyrium SL

Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport 700x23

Crank set: Campagnolo Centaur 34/50 carbon

Front derailleur: Campagnolo Centaur

Back derailleur: Campagnolo Centaur carbon

Cassette: Campagnolo Mirage 10 speeds 11-25

Shifters: Campagnolo Mirage flat bar

Brakes set: Campagnolo Mirage

Chain: KMC X-10 SL gold

9K-Project, part 1

03.2008

Now that MetaPhysics are moving fast on the roads, we would like

to show the potential of this recumbent building a unit with quality parts, as an example of what's possible. Besides the proven performance of the chosen parts, we will pay special attention to weight. The goal is a final weight around 9 kilos (19.84 lb), that is the reason we have called it 9K-Project. Of course, a silly lightweight MetaPhysic is very easy spending a stratospheric amount of money, but that will be also an unrealistic cost for most of us, mere mortals. So, exotic very expensive parts will be out of the mix.

How this will end?

The project begins, more to come...

The birth of a new brand

07.2007

2007 is the year that marks our begining with the introduction of the absolutely revolutionary model: MetaPhysic

At MetaBikes we think in a different way to arrive farther, innovating to surpass the present conventions and paradigms, we open new ways with the unique purpose that you can enjoy the most advanced road machine.

We leave behind four intensive years dedicated to investigation, thousands of design and developement hours, several prototypes and many overcomed obstacles. All is in excess compensated by being able to offer the experience of a more efficient, faster, more aerodynamical, more comfortable and more exciting cycling.

Discover MetaBikes and enter into the XXI century cycling !