The Penny Farthing
The first time I saw the Yike Bike, I was smitten. Yes, they look a bit weird – almost a backwards version of the original bike, the Penny-farthing – but that’s only because I’m used to leaning front-ways over the handle bars of a bike with two equally sized wheels. Who says that is actually the best way to ride?
The Yike Bike is the smallest, lightest electric folding bike in the world. It has a 51cm diameter when folded up, and is only 10kg, so you can easily carry it on the train or into your office to charge for the ride home. But what I admire most about it is that it is such a great example of sustainable design being no different than great design. It gets you out of your car. Every piece has a purpose and fits together seamlessly. Neither form nor function has been sacrificed. I’m just not sure what the bike is made of, or if it is recyclable. That would be the final test of it’s sustainability.
The disadvantages are that you can’t integrate exercise into your commute; you also can’t do any groceries on your way home (not pannier or basket compatible); and at $3,600 USD it’s out of my price range – at least now, while it’s still new.
© 2012 
