Cyclotron Bikes look like something out of a science fiction movie, but the spoke-less smart bicycles are almost ready for consumers. The company began developing the idea for their futuristic bikes three years ago and now their Kickstarter campaign is underway.
The bikes are made from “Space Grade Carbon Fiber Composite.” This allows the Cyclotrons to be tough and strong while being relatively lightweight. The bikes do not have spokes, cables or really any external components which makes them stand out from even the most modern and expensive bikes on the market today.
The chain-less bikes are available in two versions, manual and electronic. Cyclotron tire’s are completely airless and are made from solid polymer. They can last up for up to 6,000 miles. The spoke-less design enables riders to use the wheels for storage and the high-end models feature an electronic gear box. This allows the rider to shift into a different gear, up or down, in less than a second even at a complete standstill without exerting any effort.
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The bikes have many more high-tech features aside from their basic form and function. There are laser lane projecting lights, as well as “halo” LED wheel lights. Both lighting options automatically adjust according to the time of day. Cyclotron’s lights are self-charging and last for over eight hours. The battery is contained within the seatpost and can be charged in a regular wall outlet if needed.
Their Cyclo-App is available for iOS and Android devices. The Bluetooth connected app has a variety of useful features, including real time battery updates. It has navigation capabilities as well as the ability to record rides for fitness purposes. Most uniquely, it automatically reports any accident and has a GPS location service in case it is misplaced or stolen.
The company notes that they are close to obtaining over fifteen patents for their Cyclotron Bikes. Their Kickstarter campaign reached 75 percent of its goal in five days. With nine days left they have crowdfunded over $93,000, their original goal was just over $56,000.
The Cyclotron Bikes will be available in different models at much different price points. Their basic models are 12-speed or 18-speed manual options, which do not include the e-gearbox. Kickstarter backers will pay around $1,000 – $2,000 for the range of manual options. The more high-tech e-gear 18-speed options with hydraulic breaking run between $2,500 – $3,000.
Cyclotron Bike’s have been in development for some time but they still won’t get into the hands of riders just yet. The space-age looking bikes are expected to ship anywhere in the world by June of 2017.
The new tech-infused bikes clearly have drawn consumer interest based on their Kickstarter success. But it is unclear how quickly they will take off on a larger scale.