The ultimate in understatement.
01.04.2024 | Innovation
Dominik Mahr is Team Lead Design in our Innovation & Development department. As a designer, he was instrumental in the development of the Culture. He talks to us about the development process for the new bike.
What is the concept behind the new Culture?
Dominik: When it came to the Culture, we consciously opted for a less technical design that is closer to a classic bike. This resulted in a silhouette that was completely new for Riese & Müller. We developed a bike, the timeless, gentle shapes of which combined with a focus on the essentials, and that appeals to people who are looking for a simple, minimalist and yet uniquely special bike. We opted to include fewer features and configuration options, but ensured that everything was done to the highest quality. The bike conveys a certain understatement and minimalism.
Please briefly describe the design process
The development took around two years. In the early phase, we produced initial sketches in which we worked out the distinctive design features of the bike. But long before that we had started looking at new mobility concepts. Particularly how bikes are ridden around town and the trends that we observed there. In concrete terms, we realised that there are many people who want a simple E-Bike that looks just like a normal bike. We also considered and implemented sustainable product design concepts from the outset, including the Circular Design concept, and the use of recycled aluminium. In doing so, we are systematically contributing to our companywide sustainability strategy.
What sets the Culture apart?
The Culture is an everyday bike that is extremely relaxing to ride, which you can also use for wonderfully longer rides at the weekend. The battery is permanently fitted on the bike. This has two major advantages: the battery is securely protected from being stolen within the frame. At the same time, it reduces the weight of the bike. The optional Bosch PowerMore 250 Wh range extender also enables the battery performance to be increased by more than 60%.
The bike is driven by the new, lightweight Bosch SX motor, which delivers real power. We have also opted for relatively wide tires. They visually blend well with the proportions of the frame, increase riding comfort, and ensure greater safety in urban traffic. The shape of the frame is instantly recognisable. At the same time, the design is functional: the angled top tube of the diamond frame makes it easier to get onto the bike. On the Mixte frame, the angled top tube is ideal for holding and lifting the bike. The curved seat strut is yet another really attractive and characteristic detail of the rear view.
What role do the new blossom, biscuit and denim colours play?
The colours reflect the relaxed character of the bike: they convey emotion, naturalness and lifestyle. The pastel shades blend harmoniously into the surroundings and the rider’s style. Among other things, we were inspired by urban street style in developing the colour strategy and the overall design concept. And, as with all our products, it was important to us to generate visual longevity and timelessness with the Culture as well.
Who is the Culture aimed at?
The Culture is attractive to anyone looking for a minimalist and high-quality E-Bike. It adheres to the “E-Bike as a bike” approach and is very similar to a traditional bike in terms of its handling and riding experience. We are therefore expanding our product range, and thereby offering an alternative to our more complex bikes. The Culture combines the idea of a trendy, minimalist, carefree E-Bike with Riese & Müller’s riding dynamics and our quality promise to dealers and customers.
Many thanks for the insights, Dominik.