The DB4 is one of Aston Martin’s most desirable classics, but they can run anywhere from $500,000 up to more than $10 million, depending on condition and provenance. But the French e-bike maker Coleen has collaborated with the British automaker and made a more affordable homage to the DB4. Well, sort of.
Really, the connection is tenuous at best. Coleen took one of its bikes, the Composer, and added a classic Sanction Green paintwork and a white round number plate labeled with ‘5’. And, well, that’s about it. Squint as hard as you like, there is no other resemblance to the flowing lines of the DB4.
As an e-bike on its own, The Coleen X Aston Martin is an exceptional and innovative electric two-wheeler. Based on a carbon fiber frame, it’s powered by a 48v, 562 Wh battery, and 250w rear-mounted hub motor that results in a top speed of 29mph (around 46kph) and a range of 59 miles (95km) at full charge. It also sports a progressive hydraulic brake system, belt drive and even a digital display that mates with your smartphone, so you can find your bike, see your riding history and text and talk while riding. That last part may not be its smartest feature.
At around $6,500 apiece, the bike is certainly far less expensive than a pristine DB4. As to whether it will be revered as such a classic in 60 years, we’ll just have to wait and see.
*Images courtesy of Coleen and Aston Martin
