How much would you pay for a copper-plated, python-skin, handmade bicycle?
Detroit manufacturing has taken more than its fair share of licks. But one company looks to turn it around with a line of locally-built luxury sporting goods. Among other super-luxe products like $6,250 footballs (really), Williamson Goods & Supply hand-builds a line of extremely limited (and gorgeous) bicycles right in the Motor City.
World, meet the $35,000 Wheelmen.
Wheelmen $35,000 Copper Bicycle
To start, the Wheelman is available in chrome or copper. But we’re not talking just a few thin strips of copper or chrome, the frame is hand-brazed Columbus steel and chrome- or copper-plated.
The top, seat, and down tubes are wrapped in genuine python skin. Crocodile wraps a modified Brooks saddle.
The frame has integrated retro-Schwinn front and rear lights. There’s also a custom front rack, matching beverage canister (chrome or copper), and included leather saddlebag.
The whole shiny, reptilian package comes to $35,000. Williamson will only produce 10 of each colorway: chrome with navy wrap, copper with navy wrap, or copper with tan wrap.
Each bike is stamped with its 1-10 production number and made to order.
The bike will be made in three sizes. The brand will build in custom sizes and even colors upon request. It does not list a weight, but definitely builds this bike for outlandish opulence, not speed.
For that, check out Lamborghini’s $32,000 carbon road bike. Or, for the same price, pick yourself up a new Chevy Colorado Z71. Decisions, decisions.
We wouldn’t recommend taking it through the city (or a PETA rally). But for a tour through wine country, or to hang on the back of your Rolls Royce, this is one lavish, few-of-a-kind bike.