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The prototype of the igus:bike bicycle appeared back in 2022. Now the bike with the new name RCYL is going into production. The bicycle is made from recycled plastic, but is obviously subject to similar recycling after use.
The idea for the massive plastic one came from Frank Blaise, head of the German plastic products company igus, while on vacation in Florida in 2009. In the US, he noticed that rental bicycles had a very limited shelf life due to constant exposure to sand, wind and salt water.
Although the frame, wheels, connecting rods and bearings of the prototype were plastic, some components were still made of metal at the time. The team has since looked for ways to make more parts from plastic. The renamed RCYL bike is now 92% plastic, with half coming from recycled plastic waste, including discarded fishing nets.
Durable plastic ball bearings do not require lubrication. Non-plastic parts include disc brakes, tires, transmission belts, lighting, bolts, and the like.
“We are now continuing to invest in research and development to increase our use of recycled plastic to 75% as soon as possible, and even to 100% in the long term,” says Sven Thernhardt, Head of Sales and Marketing.
Partner company MTRL is currently producing the first 100 units before fulfilling pre-orders for approximately 1,500 bikes. To reduce waiting times, igus is building its own production line for bicycles. After increasing capacity, the company intends to produce 10,000 bicycles.
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The initial production model weighs 17 kg and costs 1200 euros. This does not include the motor and battery, although igus:bike is planning an electric bike.
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