B-9 NH Urban Stealth

A bicycle shaped by stealth geometry — minimal, angular and visually uncompromising.
B-9 NH Urban Stealth video preview

Overview

The B-9 NH Urban Stealth is a handmade singlespeed bicycle inspired by the geometry and visual language of the F-117 Nighthawk aircraft. It represents the evolution of the earlier BME X-9 concept and combines a carbon fiber frame and fork, a one-piece carbon stem-handlebar, the S72 saddle system and custom CNC machined components.

The original version was finished in a matte black "stealth" coating, emphasizing the aircraft-inspired character. Later, a camouflage version was introduced, offering a more expressive visual interpretation of the same concept.

Features

Tough

  • Designed for durability in demanding urban use.
  • Low maintenance, straightforward riding experience.
  • Frame and components tested according to EU standards.
  • Stiff and predictable under load.

Functional

  • Single speed carbon belt drive for clean and efficient operation.
  • S72 saddle system allowing quick and precise adjustment.
  • Integrated design of key components reduces complexity and enhances overall reliability.

Striking

  • Matte black stealth finish and faceted geometry inspired by aircraft design.
  • Camouflage version introduced as a more expressive interpretation of the concept.
  • Distinctive form that stands apart while remaining visually restrained.

Geometry and fit

The size of the bicycle is suitable for the rider's body height of 175-185 cm and inseam length of 82-86 cm.

B-9 NH Project geometry diagram

*The saddle height can be adjusted according to the requirement.

Gallery

Safety and testing

The pre-production B-9 NH series was built for testing. All BME Design components — frame, fork, integrated handlebar and stem, saddle assembly and crankset — passed the required safety and quality tests according to the EN 14764:2006 standard. Testing was carried out by an accredited Engineering Test Institute in the Czech Republic.

Exhibitions

The B-9 NH Urban Stealth bicycle was presented at the following exhibitions:

  • 'Bike to the Future', Museum of Design Atlanta, USA, April-July 2021
  • 'BIKES - the reinvention of the bicycle', Grassi Museum for Applied Art Leipzig, Germany, June-October 2017
  • 'Bike l Design l City' Exhibition, Gewerbemuseum Winterthur, Switzerland, January-July 2017
  • Eurobike Show (displayed in the Gates Carbon Drive booth), Friedrichshafen, Germany, August 2015
  • Like Bike Monte Carlo, Monaco, April 2015
  • North American Handmade Bicycle Show, Charlotte, NC, USA, March 2014

Availability and Future

The B-9 NH Urban Stealth was developed as a limited project, with an initial ambition to produce a small series of 100 bicycles. In total, only three bicycles were manufactured — one in the original matte black stealth finish, another in a camouflage variation, while the third remains unpainted and unassembled.

The project was not continued into series production, as the financial requirements of carbon manufacturing at limited volumes proved too demanding, despite strong interest. However, the concept remains open for future development.

The unassembled frame is still available for a serious collector or enthusiast.

There are also plans to revisit the concept in the future, potentially exploring alternative materials and electric-assisted versions.