Bicycling

Pininfarina + Diavelo Join Forces To Create An E-Bike

“E-voluzione represents a perfect synthesis of our spirit: sporty character and eco-friendly soul” affirms Paolo Pininfarina. “Sporty and dynamic, a harmonic bikeable to guarantee high performances and great comfort”.

E-voluzione is the first electric bike born from the design collaboration between Pininfarina and bicycle makers Diavelo. E-voluzione was developed with a holistic design philosophy in mind. By that, I mean all the main components of the bike are integrated in the bike. By making a conscious effort to seamlessly integrate the battery, the mid-engine, the handlebar and stem, the cockpit, all the cables, the lighting system they have created not only a very aesthetically pleasing bike but one with a higher level of function. Thanks to better weight distribution and balance and a more comfortable and performing ride.

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Using carbon fiber in the frame and in the bar, seat post, wheels, the bike is extremely light weight compared to the competition, weighing in at 35 pounds. I know, hefty by traditional bike standards, but fairly light for a motorized e-bike.

The carbon fiber frame is produced by using an innovative process known as autoclave carbon fiber. Which produces a lighter stiffer frame allowing the bike to be more maneuverable and perform better.

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The same level of innovation applies to other components that are used in the bike as well. The motor and transmission feature a high torque capacity and are fully integrated into the frame. The transmission is belt driven for an ultra quiet ride and reduces maintenance needs. In addition, they have integrated the patented battery into the frame, yet it is still fully removable for recharging or replacement if needed. The bike features hydraulic brakes and Shimano components as well.

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SLADDA, the IKEA Bike.

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Well this looks promising, especially if you are looking for a commuter bike, or a city runabout for picking up a few things at the market or store.

IKEA is going to start selling a low-maintenance unisex bicycle named SLADDA this August. “Designed to fit an urban lifestyle,” SLADDA was created with help from global design consultancy Veryday. The bike is designed to be low maintenance so don’t expect high end fittings like a 20 speed Shimano shifter or carbon fiber wheels. What it does offer though is a corrosion-resistant cogged drive belt which IKEA says will last for an impressive 9,320 miles before it needs to be replaced and disc brakes.

The bike frame is made of aluminium and comes coated in two layers of lacquer to protect against mud, salt and scratches, and light enough to be carried up a flight of stairs to your condo or apartment. Handlebars are height-adjustable, and the wheels come in either 26 or 28 inches, making the bike suitable for anyone from age of 12 upwards. The bike is also built with a click system which allows you to attach accessories, like a basket, fenders or a cart which have already been announced.

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Sladda has already landed a coveted Red Dot Design Award and is slated to go on sale, in Europe this August. No word on when it or if it goes on sale in the USA The projected price is €699 (USD $797) for the general public, and €499 (USD $569) for members of the Ikea Family loyalty program.

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Type Cycle.

What a nice combination of typography, 3D animation, and bikes. The video below is from Marcel Piekarski. It is a personal project he designed highlighting two things he loves, bicycles and type. He has created an entire alphabet, with posters and still frames for each letter here. This is such a wonderful little project. I hope someone is smart enough to distribute this for him as an actual typeface for designers and artist to use.

WingLights.

Since last November I have been contemplating getting a bike and using it for quick runs to the grocery store, and other errands at the shopping area just down the road from my house. Since I started working from home in June, I’ve been thinking about it quite a bit more. I live on a street with a dedicated bike lane, and the exercise would do me good. The thing is, every time I drive on that same street I witness all the distracted drivers that gravitate right and hug that thin strip of asphalt given to cyclist. Frankly I’m surprised they haven’t had more accidents.

All of this brings up an important topic. How do we make cyclists more visible and safe, and give them a better way to signal to drivers what they are doing? The folks at CYCL have come up with a pretty solid solution for this. WingLights. The video below shows them in action, and if I get a new bike, this is one of the first things I’m getting for it. The price is right and the function of these is pretty unbeatable.

Knowing that every bike rider needs to see and, be seen by motorists, CYCL’s WingLights are a solid solution. The turn indicator light system mounts at the end of your handlebars, and is activated with a touch of a button that you have on each one of them. They indicator stays on for about 45 seconds, or you can turn them off by simply tapping the activation button. When you get to your destination, simply detach them from the handlebars, click them together and attach them to the included carabiner.