The prototype of the paper bicycle and other two-wheel innovations

Just a few days before the World Bicycle Day, which will be on Sunday, June 3, it is increasingly important to reflect on the importance of the role of the bike all over the world. It's true that it is one of the oldest means of transport in the world, but it's equally true that today more than ever, it is returning to be the future of cities. The reason is simple:

1. the bike doesn't pollute
2. takes up little space and doesn't congest urban traffic
3. it's good for health as it allows you to stay in shape
4. makes people happy

This is why in recent years many start-ups have been launched that deal with promoting the use of the bike in urban and extra-urban contexts. Bike sharing, innovative theft prevention systems, onboard computers and revolutionary materials: the bikeconomy is growing rapidly and it's exciting to hear stories of people from all around the world, committed to finding solutions for the future of two wheels and thus, the planet.

The bikeconomy is growing rapidly and it's very interesting to see creatives from all over the world committed to developing innovative prototypes

The start-up that designed the paper bike

Since we are small, paper is one of the first materials used to create. And the Mexican start-up Greencode started from the beginning to design the prototype of the paper bike, made only with recyclable materials. It's called Urban GC1 and was conceived by a group of Mexican boys, engaged in the fight against pollution. The bike is made with 55% waterproof cardboard, with 35% metal and 10% recycled plastic and rubber. An eco-friendly bike even in its realization, which unfortunately did not receive the necessary funds to be produced on a large scale. The project was financed through the Kickstarter crowdfunding platform, but did not reach the pre-set budget. This does not mean that it will not be produced on a large scale, on the contrary, the start-up has declared that they are already back at work to find new forms of financing. In addition to being useful for the environment, the Urban GC1 is also aesthetically very beautiful, albeit minimal: the weight is about 10 kg and the market price is around 130 euros.

Other prototypes of innovative bikes

Besides the paper bike, designers from all over the world have also developed other types of decidedly innovative and specific vehicles. Among all, the bamboo bike stands out, very light but very resistant and definitely eco-friendly. Philippe Starck also tried his hand at making an electric bike that all design-addicted would want to buy right away. It's impossible to miss the bikes with solar panels instead of spokes and the spokeless bike, new frontiers of technological innovation applied to two wheels. Although the bike is one of the oldest means of transport, its evolution never stopped and even today puts creatives from all over the world to the test in creating uniquely aesthetic and functional prototypes. If you're curious to discover which are the strangest bikes in the world, you might be interested in this article!

In addition to the paper bike, there are other prototypes of innovative bikes, such as this lightweight and durable bamboo one

Article by Travel On Art - second picture by Techmog