The latest attempt to improve on the chain-drive system used on nearly all bicycles comes from Hungary, where developers have created the Stringbike that uses cables and pulleys to propel it forward.
Although you'd think something like this might be headed to Interbike in Las Vegas, it was released this past weekend in Padova, Italy, by Schwinn-Csepel, which is the licensed seller. It would be interesting to see the product testers put this bike through its paces at the Outdoor Demo in Boulder City.
Symmetrical drivetrain
I'll be the first to admit that I spent too much time watching this video to try and figure out how the Stringbike works.
Essentially, the Stringbike makers say the advantage comes from the symmetrical nature of this drivetrain. Instead of the force being applied to the chain side of the bike, it's equally supplied on both sides as each pedal has a pulley system.
The cyclist can change gears by turning a single shifting knob on the right handlebar. That moves the pulley on the pedal assembly up and down a traction path with 19 settings that correspond to gear changes. One advantage is that the cyclist can change gears while moving, or sitting still. Gear shifting explained.
Dirt-resistant
The Stringbike website says the driving cable is a high density polyurethane product that resists humidity, water and extreme use. And the high tension between the pulleys and the cable forces out mud or debris that might otherwise gets lodged in there.
The website reminds us that the system doesn't get as greasy and dirty and funky as a chain on a typical bike. Another advantage touted by the developers is that the rear wheel is easily removed without handling a messy chain.
Who knows, these Hungarians might be onto something. Time will tell if bicycle manufacturers ever drop the chain-drive system in favor of this cable system or the drive-shaft system.
More about the Stringbike at Hungarian Ambiance and Popular Science.
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