IF Mode Folding Bike Folds in Seconds but Rides Like a Normal Bike

Mark Sanders, designer of the Strida, is at it again with the IF (integrated folding) Mode bike. It won the Gold Medal at the iF Product Design Awards in Germany in March. Bikes that fold quickly and easily have great promise as part of an intermodal transport system, letting people move from bike to train or bus and back to bike. The IF Mode looks interesting, much more conventional than the Strida, but a lot more expensive, too.

via James at Bicycle design:

The clean and striking MODE is aimed at commuters that may have not considered cycling or folding bikes as an option. MODE avoids oily chains, complex tubes with hidden dirt traps and the clutter of traditional bike features. It can be used by commuters who do not want to change their appearance into 'bicycle warriors'. MODE features Pacific's IF (Integrated Folding) technology that offers a single-action, automatic fold that requires no tools or removal of parts. IF technology is based on a patented 3-dimensional 4-Bar linkage that automatically guides the wheels together when folding. Once folded, MODE rolls along in a convenient wheelable package.

From the video here, it appears that it folds just about as quickly as the Strida. But you can see why it is more expensive at US$ 2,250; it is a lot more complicated. It is imported by Areaware, so I might get a chance to try it out at ICFF in two weeks and will report again from there.

Bike Weight: 32 lbs (14.7 kg)Frame: Pacific AL7005 IF Monocoque with Single Swing ArmTire: Kenda Kwick Roller Sport 26 x 1.5 inchesRim: Alloy 6061-T6 26 x 1.5 inches; 12H 3 Spider PlatesHub: KT Sealed Bearings for Single Arm FrameChainwheel: Speed Drive 22T with CGChain: KMC HG53Freewheel: 12T SprocketDerailer: Speed Drive Dual Speed SystemShifter: Heel Push Bottom on BB AxleSaddle: Velo VL-2064 BrownPedal: FoldableStem: CNC Integrated to Front ForkBrake: Mechanical Disc Brake with 6 inch rotorsBrake Lever: Mechanical Disc Brake LeverFolded Dimensions: 40 inches (h) x 10.5 inches (w) x 26 inches (l)

More on folding bikes:Buy Green: Small Wheel Folding BikesBuy Green: Large Wheel Folding BikesA Review of my Bike Friday Folding BicycleA Review of My Strida Folding Bicycle