That’s ‘One’ (Weird Looking) Folding Bike
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 03.30.07
The ‘One’ bike is a design concept by industrial designer, Thomas Owen, a recent graduate of the UK’s University of Derby, from whence he departed with a B. Sc. (Hons) in Product Design, Innovation and Eco-design. Seems he studied subjects like Eco-design Methods and Strategies, Eco-design Management, Eco-design Applications and Appropriate Technology. Some of which must have lead him to take on the not inconsiderable challenge of redesigning the world’s most efficient means of transporting humans. A prototype ‘One’ bicycle was made, but it doesn’t look like it was quite road-ready. We do however like that Thomas did think outside the diamond (frame), though wonder if he was influenced by the Locust by Czech designer, Josef Cadek? Either way it’s an interesting take for a cute looking city bike. ::Thomas Owen via Yanko
Check out www.abikecentral.com to see another weird looking folder that's already in production. The Sinclair A-bike is inexpensive, tiny, and weighs only 12.5 pounds.
As I mentioned in an earlier post on the One Bike, it does look similar to the Locust; however, the big difference is how it folds and the way in which the folding method affects the ability to ride the bike. Notice that the One Bike folds at a joint just in front of the seatpost stem. That joint is also how the bike turns, presenting very real stability issues. For this reason, I'd be very surprised if this bike ever went into production - at least in the present form.
For more about the Locust folding bike, read my interview with the designer, Josef Cadek...
http://tinyurl.com/2b778l
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
I really wish you would stop posting Indusrtial Design grad student class projects.
A quick glance shows a high "cool" factor and no possibility of this bike being built, sold or even rideable.
Sorry,
Josh
Josh - I believe it more prudent to promote "cool" ideas than to laud tired and ineffective practices such as turning trash into fashion, art, furniture, etc. Industrial revolution is the only possible cure for GW and anything that inspires that process is positive. Promoting band aids to treat chronic hemorrhaging should be relegated to ‘also in the news.’
where we can buy bike like that?
wat would u sell this 4
josh,
a quick glance at your post reveals how lame of a designer you are.
Sorry,
dave