8 Brilliant Bicycle Concepts

The bicycle, which, according to the Pedaling History Bicycle Museum, evolved from a pedal-less machine built in 1817, is constantly at the center of innovation-whether to correct a flaw, meet a mobility need or simply as a means of artistic expression. So, we set out to find new bikes crafted with modernity in mind, regardless of whether they are rideable or not. From the motor-assisted Gocycle to a three-wheel seesaw-inspired cycle, each of the bikes below binds together the world of cycling and design.

"Bio-Cycle"


Requiring 100 hours of work, Jud Turner's "Bio-Cycle"-made of welded steel and found objects-is part of his ongoing series of sculptures that examine how humans are intertwined with their modes of transportation. It sports an exact replica of a human skeleton, the bones of which are coated with a metallic finish, whose feet are attached to the pedals and whose arms serve as the bike's forks. Displayed in May 2008 at the Mary Lou Zeek Gallery in Salem, Oregon, the "Bio-Cycle" was purchased by a private collector within two days for $3,000.

The Contortionist


Dominic Hargreaves designed the Contortionist to-unlike other folding bikes-specifically showcase the aesthetics and feel of a traditional bike. Mechanically, he aimed to create a bike that was unable to fold up while being ridden, even if the quick release were to come loose. The aluminum frame collapses between the two wheels, making its compact size equal to that of a 26-inch wheel, allowing it to be easily carried (or rolled!) onto public transportation. When opened up, it becomes a standard, full-size bike.




Gocycle


The final of many prototypes, Karbon Kinetics Limited's Gocycle took its desired form in spring 2009 as a compact, electric-assisted, corrosion-proof folding bike. Designed to meet the everyday get-around needs of British citizens, the three-speed cycle with five-spoke wheels is equipped with optional accessories including a lightweight kickstand, chain guards to prevent oil rub on pants, integrated cable locks and luggage carriers on the front of the bike (in the form of a mount that allows you to hang a standard pannier) as well as at the back (a luggage arm can be mounted above the rear tire for transporting heavier cases). Fully assembled, the Gocycle costs £1,198 (approximately $1,995).


Skybike


The Skybike, a project designed by Marios Diamantis for the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, was meant to satisfy abstract needs as opposed to practical ones. Rather than providing a transportation solution, the Skybike, which has the rider sitting upside down and pedaling backward, is meant to make a person feel as if they are "riding on the sky" according to Diamantis. The artist claims that this concept raises questions such as "What is the purpose of designing only objects that adapt or apply to everyday life?"





Cardboard Bicycle


Phil Bridge, who majored in Product Design at Sheffield Hallam University in Sheffield, England, aimed to design a recyclable bike that was, in essence, worth nothing. Bicycles are often stolen or damaged throughout England, so he hoped his cardboard creation, devoid of sentiment and cost, would deter thieves while also preventing owner worry. A waterproof, honeycomb-structured cardboard called Hexacomb-generally used for engineering purposes-was used for the frame, pedals and wheel spokes. Designed to withstand approximately six months of constant use, the bike has an estimated production cost of around £15 (approximately $25).


Bi-Cycle


This unique tandem bicycle is all about trust! Allowing both riders to contribute equally to the riding experience, the Bi-Cycle requires one rider to pedal forward and the other to pedal backward while they sit with their backs to each other. Designed by My Atomic Mass designer Elad Barouch as a "couples counseling" technique, the Bi-Cycle is meant to help a pair establish trust and communication to provoke forward movement within the relationship; once established, the rest should be fun!





SeeSaw Bike


Displayed at 2008's Design Miami conference, the SeeSaw Bike is a prime example of bike-meets-art. Though two people cannot ride this bicycle at the same time, designer Elad Barouch was intent on building it with real variables (manufactured bike parts) while imitating an actual object (a seesaw!) so that the SeeSaw Bike creates the illusion that it could, in fact, work with multiple riders. After creating the Bi-Cycle (see above), Barouch aimed to "create an object that stands on that thin line between reality and imagination" and wanted observers to have "a baffled look about what their eyes are seeing."


Nulla Bicycle


Still just a concept, the Nulla, which means "nothing" in Italian, embraces a minimalist approach to bicycle design. Named as such due its missing parts, including the chain, fork and spokes, the Nulla uses a "direct-gear-chain drive system" instead to support the wheels and produce movement. Created by Bradford Waugh, the bike is still causing much debate as to whether or not it would indeed be operable, but most cycling enthusiasts agree that with its sleek, beautiful design it doesn't matter all that much.