European Bicycle design and Urban Mobility
Velorution at The London Bike Show 2016
It was a pleasure to exhibit amongst some of the most well respected urban bike brands on the Velorution stand at the London Bike Show 2016. I have selected six brands that show classic style, minimalist style, folding design and unconventional frame design, some of which endured the test of time, some which look ahead to aid human-powered urban mobility in the UK and indeed the world.
Schindelhauer
http://www.schindelhauerbikes.com/
It was great to meet Joerg, founder of Schindelhauer at the Bike Show, we’ve been a fan of these beautiful urban bikes since they founded only 6 years ago. Taiwanese made and finished in Germany, the Schindelhauer range combines exemplary finishes, attractive colours and all have Gates Carbon Drive belts for low maintenance cycling. Minimalist urban style. From £1395
Swifty Scooters (left), Schindelhauer (right).
Gates Carbon Belt Drive.
Metallic Black and polished aluminium front forks.
Meijs Motorman
http://www.meijsmotorman.com/
Classed as a Light Motorcycle or Moped, this electric motorbike was certainly a head turner at the London Bike Show. Designed by Dutch designer Ronald Meijs, the Motorman has a top speed of 28mph, a range of 43miles and boasts a 2000w motor. Fully electric it rides silently with zero emissions. No human power required, it oozes quality and style. From £5999 made to order.
Meijs Motorman electric Motorbike
Moulton
http://www.moultonbicycles.co.uk/
A British classic, Moulton Cycles have been around since 1962 and remain a desirable product. Known for the eccentric “F” frame design, small 20” (406mm) wheels and front and rear suspension, Moulton bikes reflect the character of British design and urban transportation. Still made in the original workshop in Wiltshire, UK. From £1375
Strida
http://www.strida.com/
This unique triangular folding bike is a modern classic. Designer Mark Sanders was keen to break the mould back in the 1980s with belt drive, single sided forks, and the foldable frame. Strida claims the upright sitting position helps you to see more of the city and certainly stands out from the crowd. Made in China. From £499.
Biomega
https://biomega.com/
High-end Danish bike brand, Biomega, have released the OKO e-bike. With distinctive integrated forks and fenders, the carbon fibre frame helps to reduce the overall weight to 18.6 kg. The battery is integrated into the top tube and the motor into the front hub. Featuring Schimano hydraulic disk brakes and a 25-40 mile range. From £1795
Cooper Bikes
http://www.cooperbikes.com/
This British heritage brand launched in 2009, and feature high spec parts at a competitive price. Featured include Reynolds steel tubing, Brooks saddles and Sturmey Archer cranks. From £699