It claims to be able to combine running and cycling – and be the ultimate urban transport. The bizarre halfbike has one large wheel, and is steered by a pole while the rider stands. Its inventors claim it is small enough to carry around when not in use, and could replace the gym for many – as well as giving commuters a better view of traffic.
‘Halfbike brings you a completely new experience,’ says the Arizona firm behind the bike. It’s a vehicle that combines running and cycling, which turns out to be remarkably exciting and fun for getting around the city. A bicycle revised both in terms of size and functionality, a new kind of personal vehicle designed with rider experience in mind.’
Martin Angelov, the inventor, says he was inspired by wanting to simplify the bike. ‘I started sketching different concepts for a simplified bike and soon reached a point where I needed to test these concepts in real life. For some of the early prototypes, I used old bicycles and parts. I was amazed how well people reacted to the idea and that made me want to keep up. Along the process other people were drawn into the project creating a small team. After further development and experiments with various rider positions followed by even more prototypes, the desired level of control was finally achieved. What we have now is a patent pending new type of personal vehicle ready for the market.
‘Halfbike is compact enough for an elevator, light enough to carry it on stairs and fits into spaces too small for a normal bike,’ the firm claims. Riding it mimics low impact style running and is great for “bike-jogging”. The joy of riding it can give you motivation to go out and have some fun.’
