onsdag 13 november 2013

Innovative bike products

Scandinavians have a long history of outdoor activities, something that often is reflected in the innovations we produce. Companies like Fjällräven, Haglöfs, and Helly Hansen are all from the Nordic region. Also often mispronounced Husqvarna (hʉ:s kva: rn –a: [long a- and u-sounds]), can be added to this list since it’s both Swedish and belonging to the outdoorsy activities, even though it may not be fit the clothing brand formula.

Lately, there has been two bike-related innovations that have caught my attention. These are two products that I have developed a strong “must have” craving for, one of which is developed by two young Swedish entrepreneurs. Some of you may already be familiar with Anna Haupt’s and Terese Alstin’s new type of bike helmet called “Hövding”. Born out of the introduction of a law on mandatory helmet use for children, the idea of developing a whole new type of cycle helmet emerged. The result was the airbag helmet which is hidden in the riders color, but inflats as soon as the bikes starts tipping over. Please see the video below to be amazed!


The other bike product, may not be of Scandinavian origin, but is never the less no less impressive! Still in a Kick-Starter project phase the Smart Wheel from FlyKly is a small electric, wheel mounted motor, that helps you up those pesky hills on your morning ride to work. The motor turns on when you start pedaling and begins accelerating to your desired speed, which you quickly and easily control using your smart phone. You can even remotely lock the motor and track the bike in case it gets stolen!

As always please let me know what you think in the comments below. Are these your new X-mas gift wishes as well?

3 kommentarer:

  1. That helmet is brilliant! Especially for people that hate helmets.

    SvaraRadera
    Svar
    1. Haha, yes. It also really doesn't look all that bad when worn with other clothes as a jacket or thick sweater. I just realized however that it may not be a thrilling concept in Phoenix where the low-side 100 degree weather makes jackets sort of superfluous. The odd out collar-thing may be a fit there... I dont know?

      Radera
  2. +1

    Go Scandinavian design!

    SvaraRadera