Communiqué de presse: The BMW Kidsbike - a bike that grows up with you

This idea from BMW is fun for children and saves on parents' money and nerves
-a bike that grows up with you. Children as young as two can use the Kidsbike
as a running bike. Once they have enough of running and finally want to ride a
bike properly by pedalling, the BMW Kidsbike becomes a child's bicycle simply
by attaching the pedals. Children can then enjoy riding up to the age of six.

While still using the Kidsbike as a running bike, the child develops a natural
sense of balance at an early stage and can also practise steering and braking.
As soon as the young one feels safe enough, the pedals and chain can be fitted
and the adjustable seat raised. Children don't have to get used to a new bike
because the patented BMW Kidsbike adapts itself to their needs.

The unique, eye-catching inspiration for the child-sized bicycle was the BMW
Roadster Z4 with its unmistakable curves and edges. Its resilient frame is made
from high-quality brushed aluminium and is available in red and blue.

As with all BMW vehicles, safety is the top priority. The bike's plastic pedals
are fitted with reflectors, and the hand-operated brake is easy to use, even
for very small children. If the pedals are attached, the cyclist has the option
to use a back-pedal brake for quick braking. Other safety features: a
child-friendly and adjustable cantilever front-wheel brake, a child-friendly
steering design, fully-enclosed chain, protective padding and controlled
steering lock. A bell and lights come standard and a DIN-tested cycle helmet is
delivered with the bike. Transporting the lightweight Kidsbike is no problem,
it weighs only 5 kg (7 kg with pedals) and a comfortable carrying strap is also
supplied.

The frame is 36 cm high. The lowest setting for the seat is 38 cm, the maximum
seat height is 46 cm. The maximum weight load is about 50 kg.

Available in Belgium from February 2004. Price not known yet.