The ALPHA Bike Interchanges Between a Fixie and a Freewheel
Meghan Young — April 29, 2011 — Art & Design
References: thealphabike & ohgizmo
This one goes out to all of you part-time hipsters out there, because the ALPHA Bike could very well ease the debate between buying a fixie or a freewheel bicycle. The bike alleviates this tough choice because it is basically both combined into one convenient frame.
Designed by University of Pennsylvania mechanical engineering students Geoff Johnson, Lucas Hartman, Katie Savarise, Evan Dvorak and Katie Rohacz, the ALPHA Bike incorporates an innovative new free/fixed transmission which they’ve dubbed the SWIFT Drive, which is operated by an electronically controlled clutch.
Custom made from titanium and carbon fiber materials, the ALPHA Bike would probably cost a fortune to be produced and sold. Of course, although it is still in the concept stage, people might be willing to fork over that cash.
Designed by University of Pennsylvania mechanical engineering students Geoff Johnson, Lucas Hartman, Katie Savarise, Evan Dvorak and Katie Rohacz, the ALPHA Bike incorporates an innovative new free/fixed transmission which they’ve dubbed the SWIFT Drive, which is operated by an electronically controlled clutch.
Custom made from titanium and carbon fiber materials, the ALPHA Bike would probably cost a fortune to be produced and sold. Of course, although it is still in the concept stage, people might be willing to fork over that cash.
Trend Themes
1. Style Switching Cycles - The ALPHA Bike offers a versatile free/fixed transmission, catering to the trend of multi-functional bicycles.
2. SWIFT Drive - The electronically controlled clutch technology in the ALPHA Bike presents opportunities for innovation in transmission systems.
3. Titanium and Carbon Fiber Materials - The use of high-end materials in the ALPHA Bike suggests potential for innovation in lightweight and durable bike manufacturing.
Industry Implications
1. Bicycle Manufacturing - The ALPHA Bike's unique transmission system and material selection could disrupt the traditional bicycle manufacturing industry.
2. Sporting Goods Retail - The multi-functional nature of the ALPHA Bike opens up new market opportunities and retail possibilities for sporting goods stores.
3. Green Technology - The innovative features of the ALPHA Bike contribute to the advancement of sustainable transportation solutions in the green technology industry.
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