It could be the ultimate bike for commuter – with full sized wheels, yet able to fold into a package the same size as an umbrella.
An Italian designed has revealed the bike, which even has folding wheels, and a hub instead of a chain.
However, despite its tiny size when folded, it still boast full size 26inch wheels and can even be folded in a single move.
Inventor Gianluca Sada says he first came up with the idea after being disappointed with current folding bike designs.
‘The idea of a folding bike has undertaken numerous studies that focus on reducing the weight and dimensions which have led, to too small sized bicycles.
‘They have a small frame and wheels at the expense of stability, for the sake of compactness and portability during transport.
‘The minimum size of the frame, in fact, penalizes the rider position while driving and the small size of the wheels significantly are affected by variations in terrain.’
Sada said he wanted his machine to have full sized 26inch wheels, but also a frame and components that can fold.
After dozens of prototypes, he developed the current bike, which includes wheels with no spokes, and a design small enough to be used as a backback.
‘In conclusion, the project may pave the way for a new system of mobility outside the classical schemes, widely accessible and easily transportable,’ he explains – and is currently looking for an investor to help him produce the machine.