Here in the mountains, when someone mentions backpacking they are generally talking about hiking or camping.  Now a third option exists.  Backpacking your bicycle for a ride in the country or the city. 

According to The Design Blog, the Backpack Bicycle is the creation of Chang Ting Jen for the International Bicycle Design Competition.  Although the folded Backpack Bicycle does look a little like a toilet lid when folded, it is incredibly cool when unfolded.  Not only is it light weight but it is also versatile.

The bike would weigh a measly 5.5 kg or about 12 pounds.  The bicycle is expected to be made out of heavy duty composite plastic in place of the metal frame.  This will help to keep the bicycle light and easy to carry. 

The Backpack Bicycle would be perfect for people who like to bike into work or want a bicycle that they can keep at work to ride around town rather than fool with their car.  Once the rider gets to work, the bike is simply folded up and carried in to the office.  When lunch comes the bike is carried outside, quickly unfolded and ready for a lunch time ride. 

This fancy bicycle also comes with headlights, brake lights and turn signals - most of the safety features needed to keep bike riders from becoming an accident statistic.  The only item you need to add is your bike helmet.

Another cool feature is that this bicycle can also form a handcart.  Should you find that something you want to take back after your ride, is too bulky or heavy to carry on the unfolded bike,  you can simply fold the bike into a handcart and pull that bulky item back to the office or home.

This would also be a nice bicycle to have while on vacation.  Rather than having to strap the bicycle onto the top or back of your car, it would fit easily in the back end.  Once you get to your location, you don’t have to worry about how to keep your bike safe.  You simply carry it in with the rest of your gear, and leave it in the safety of your room.

If you ride to an amusement park or museum, just fold up the bike, put it on your back and enjoy your visit.  If you get tired of riding and want to take the bus or metro home, just fold up your bike, and carry it like a backpack. 

Easy, light, versatile and efficient, who could ask for anything more in a bike.

Entry was posted on Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008 at 5:04 pm under Technology.  Print This Post