“The Halfbike is a new type of vehicle to awaken your natural instinct to move”.
It combines the core driving mechanism of a classical bike, but removes the saddle and alters the rider’s position. The resulting vehicle becomes half bike, half scooter.
The standing rider position is essential to the Halfbike. It brings you closer to natural walking and you control the vehicle with your whole body, not just your hands. It’s a vehicle that trains your balance and reflexes in one.
Created from plywood and aluminium, the bike is fully fold-able and is both compact and light (weighing 9 kg). This makes it extremely useful for city travelling, including for public transport. When folded, the bike easily fits into the boot of a small car, under a desk at work or in an overcrowded closet.
Due to the change in rider position, learning to ride a Halfbike from scratch takes a bit of time and practice. It relies on the rider using their whole body to steer. Most people are able to get the basics and ride in a straight line in under 10-15 minutes.
At present, the bike (priced at around £440), comes in three different sizes dependant on your height and in five different colour combinations.
I love the idea of this Halfbike. It utilises the same concept of pedal power, but further incorporates an element of style and enjoyment. While the bike may not be the best investment price wise, it’s fantastic to see companies developing modes of transport that rely on human power rather than petrol.
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