A design student from the UK is displaying a bicycle that's made exclusively from cardboard, except for a few nuts and bolts, the chain and the wheels.
Phil Bridge, a 21-year-old student at Sheffield Hallam University, says the bike is very environmentally friendly and theft resistant. As in who's going to steal a cardboard bicycle?
The bicycle frame is made out of industrial strength cardboard, which he says won't droop in the rain. Another advantage of a cardboard bicycle — it's easy to recycle.
It's also inexpensive. Bridge says the frame would cost about 3 pounds, or $5.90. Add the chain and wheels, and it costs $30. A bicycle for the masses.
Quoted in the Telegraph, Bridge says, “The prototype does work but it is still quite limited and there are a few problems.” Perhaps that's why this 2-minute video report on BBC doesn't show anyone riding the bike.
Bridge used a honeycomb-style of cardboard known for its strength. But as the frame wears out, it can be swapped for a new one while the owner keeps the wheels and chain. He says that makes it ideal for children; the bike can grow with the child.
The student is currently looking for investors who might be interested in his idea.
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