For many people, bicycles have already become commonplace. It would seem that the “bicycle” can no longer be invented. But from time to time very unusual bicycles appear. Some are the result of the work of large companies, while others are the fruit of the creations of ordinary enthusiasts. What are the most unusual bicycles in the world?
Bicycles made of wood
We cannot say that wooden bicycles are widespread, but recently more and more companies and enthusiasts present their models of environmentally friendly transport.
Most often, such bicycles are presented by various charities and companies that actively advocate for the protection of the environment. Bikes made of wood are not produced on an industrial scale, which makes them even more unique.
The first bike to look at is the product of a collaboration between designer Rauen Tyndale and the charity Sustrans.
The bike is assembled entirely from recycled or recycled materials. The frame and fork are made from recycled wood, and the metal parts are borrowed from old recycled bicycles.
Another innovation in the bicycle industry is bamboo frames. Some companies claim that bamboo has properties that make it possible to build good bicycle frames.
This material is stronger than steel and is much better at absorbing vibrations. You can buy such a wooden frame for $400. The cost of a whole bamboo singlespeed from Pedal Forward is $500.
The next bike does not boast affordability for many and a low price. For the Arvak Bicycle, you have to pay as much as $11,000.
This is a very stylish bike that is made of white ash wood. It is equipped with carbon wheels and a Fi’zi:k saddle. The weight of the bike is only 7.5 kg. The French duo of creators assures that it is one of the best wood bikes in the world.
The Audi e-bike
The Audi e-bike Worthersee e-bike has a different appearance than conventional bikes.
First of all, the lines and angles with which the bike strongly resembles a modern racing car catch the eye. This concept was introduced by Audi about 5 years ago.
Technical characteristics of the bike are quite good. The frame is made of carbon fiber and weighs just over 2 kg. Wheels without the usual spokes, instead of them cast discs also from carbon fiber.
The fork has a good stroke of 130 mm. The bike is equipped with built-in headlights and tail lights.
The main advantage of the bike is the electric motor. The maximum power of the drive is 2.4 kW.
With this power, the bike can reach speeds of up to 80 km / h without any effort on the part of the cyclist. At cruising speed range is 50-70 km. And a full charge takes no more than 2.5 hours from a regular 220 volt outlet.
The bike is also equipped with a cycle computer with both usual functions, as well as with quite extraordinary for bikes. Among them:
- Speed,
- Distance traveled;
- The angle of incline of the road;
- Energy expended, and more.
With the help of the bicycle computer you can also choose the riding modes.
However, this bicycle was produced only in single copies and remained only a prototype. It never made it into serial production, but the project was not officially closed. So, perhaps the Audi e-bike Worthersee will someday hit the masses.
Ele Solar
The sun is believed to be one of the cleanest sources of energy on the planet. So what could be better than an electric bike that is powered by the sun?
Engineers at Mojtaba Raeisi have created an electric bike that is powered by solar panels. They have very effectively solved the problem of their placement on the bike.
Thanks to an unusual design it was possible to get rid of the need for spokes and disks, and the resulting space is occupied by solar panels. It is possible to change the angle of inclination up to 30 degrees so that the sun rays fall as perpendicularly as possible.
You can ride this electric bike all day without having to recharge it.
The anti-theft bike
Around the world, a huge number of bicycles are stolen. It seems that a clever solution to the problem has been invented – the bike lock. But it is not always convenient to carry around with you and sometimes it is not effective enough.
British designer Kevin Scott took an unconventional approach to the problem and created a bicycle that would be very difficult to steal.
In general, it is an ordinary bicycle, only part of the frame is flexible. It consists of small segments that are inserted into each other. Inside the segments is a strong metal cable, which is stretched and loosened by a special mechanism.
In this way, the bicycle can be easily gripped around a tree, pole, or similar object.
Taga Bike for family outings
Going out on bike rides with young children is not always convenient. You can buy a child seat, but what if you have two kids? Then you have to buy Taga Bike and enjoy riding with your kids.
It is a bike for a leisurely ride on a flat road, with two safety seats in the front for the kids. They comfortably accommodate a child over 6 months of age.
This bike is very comfortable, as it does not require any additional accessories.
Backpacking Bicycle
The bicycle is becoming increasingly popular as a means of transportation in cities and camping, especially folding bikes. But it is not always convenient to transport bikes when they are folded. That’s why you should consider the Bergmonch.
This bike, when folded, is a backpack. The weight of the model is 9.5 kg. In the backpack is also 12 liters of free space that can be occupied by anything, as well as a grid for a helmet. Full assembly-disassembly bike takes about 2 minutes.
Floating Bike
Some people not only want to ride bikes on the roads, but also to conquer the water element. Enthusiasts from different countries create their own guide bikes. Here is one example of such a bike.
The bike and the rider are kept afloat by empty large bottles. They are attached to the bike so that during normal riding you can remove them and ride without them. But as soon as a water obstacle appears in front of the bike, the pontoons are attached back on.
WARNING: Making a bike like this on your own and riding it in deep water is dangerous to your life and health.