The Taiwan Bicycle R&D Center (TBIRDC) recently announced the completion of a new magnesium alloy mountain bike frame weighing only 1.4 kilos, which is more than 20% lighter than an identical frame made of the current industry standard aluminum alloy.

The frame will debut on April 7 at the Taipei International Cycle Show in a bicycle called the Strauss Mag-2000. TBIRDC's research project was funded by Taiwan government agencies and more than 30 local manufacturers. The total cost of the project was announced at NT$ 20 million.

The Strauss Mag-2000 prototype marks the end of TBIRDC's first stage for the development of magnesium alloy frames. Further testing and development of mass production capabilities will follow.

When magnesium bicycles finally go into production, which should happen later this year, it is currently estimated that the price will fall around US$ 450.

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