The Ecodrive
The Ecodrive is a bicycle concept design by Juil Kim. Entered into the 2010 Seoul Cycle Design Competition, it features an aluminum frame with integrated battery and electrical, a dyno hub, a front headlight, and turn signals. Other than the future cool of the low cruiser style, practical added elements of it's electrical set-up, this bike remains fairly simple in its design.
While I would personally prefer a more swept handlebar line with some moon bars, the Ecodrive for some reason keeps growing on me. Since it's design electric drive trains have become a more common element, and it would take little to integrate an electric assist into the concept. An i-Pod specific cradle in built into the top tube near the handlebars. This is my only gripe, but it is a minor one at best. I would prefer a more universal cradle for other kinds of smart phones for us Android or Blackberry users. That being said it wouldn't take much to come up with an adapter.
When I first laid eyes on this I had the same reaction I usually do to the modern futuristic concepts; they look all awesome and funky, but they are not practical. When I read through and checked out the details, the design has me thinking this is one of the most practical cruiser concepts I have seen. The Ecodrive has no lofty claims or intentions for being a super commuter, or touring rig. It retains its fun factor with functional purpose that make it a great casual ride. Maybe I'm missing something here, but as far as I can see, wow, why is this not something being pursued more for production.
This one gets a full block of Einstars. Kudos Mr. Juin.
6 Full Einstars!
The Cardboard Bicycle
Next is a concept by Phil Bridge. His aim was to design a recyclable bike that was worth nothing. Inspiration from stolen or vandalized bikes brought his cardboard creation so that he could have a bike that was "devoid of sentiment or cost", and thus would be a deterrent to thieves.
It is made of a waterproof honeycomb structured cardboard called Hexacomb. This cardboard is generally used for engineering tasks and so was used for the frame, pedals, and spokes. Durability is estimated to give this bike a 6 month lifespan with regular use, and would cost a whopping $25 bucks to make.
While I am sure the lifespan of this bike would be different for varying conditions and locations, it opens a few possibilities. Tourists and students could take advantage of them for obvious reasons. A bike like this would be a good addition to the home stable for rides to questionable areas, or for guests to use. It wouldn't be practical to have to buy many of these over the course of a year, so using them as a daily ride to school if there is a secure place to lock a regular bike doesn't fit the purpose. However if you have a class in an area of the campus that bikes tend to disappear at, switching over to this bike makes sense. Without riding it for every ride, it would prolong it's life and extend it's value. Nothing fancy, just a straight up transportation tool.
Another great idea. This one gets a full six pack of Einstars.
6 Full Einstars!
It would appear this week that I have been stumped to find a bad idea. I doubt however that this indicates a trend. Any great designs or concepts, both ridiculous or worthy, if you find them, please feel free to pass them on to me. I am always looking for more. Have a good Friday!
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