While the bicycle is basically the same as when it was first invented, there have been many amazing inventions over the centuries.
Cycling has existed since the nineteenth century in one form or another starting with a wooden, human mounted incarnation called the Laufmaschine. This push-along device, also known as a “Dandy Horse”, acted as the precursor to bicycles we know today.
The invention of the pedal driven bicycle took place in the late 19th century thanks to Scottish blacksmith, Kirkpatrick Macmillan.
Since those times, cycling technology has progressed a great deal, resulting in some clever and creative ideas, from a multitude of different manufacturers from which cube electric bikes are leading the way.
Here are some of the most innovative inventions for the modern cyclist.
Anti Theft GPS Trackers
A simple yet impressive invention that enables any would-be bike thief to be tracked down in the event of a stealthy snatch. There are many different embodiments of this device, including GPS trackers that can be hidden in the top cap, seat post or tail light and which update via a mobile smart device. Smart pedals that maintain a record of your fitness can also keep track of your bike’s location at all times.
The Copenhagen Wheel
Another futuristic device that is designed to pull you into the modern age is a wheel that makes your bike smarter. The wheel comes with a motor that boosts the bike’s momentum making it less tiring for the cyclist. It acts rather like a cycling assistant and helps you to plan routes and measure how many calories you burn.
The Copenhagen Wheel is rechargeable using energy from the bike’s break as a power source. You can even use it as a wheel clamp for added security.
The “Hövding” Helmet
The “Hövding” helmet includes an invisible airbag that wraps around your neck in a nylon collar should the worst happen and you falloff your bike and hit your head. When its sensors detect a crash it will deploy the airbag, which surrounds and cushions your head.
B.W.M Bike Washing Machine
This is perhaps the strangest addition to the list since washing machines and bikes don’t automatically fit together as concepts. The B.W.M doesn’t actually travel anywhere but is an effective way of working out your leg muscles and doing your laundry at the same time.
The act of pedalling causes the washing machine to rotate and could be the perfect multi-tasking tool for parents who want to get fit and do the washing.
The “Cydekick”
This device is coupled to a headlamp and handlebar mounted USB charger that can power your phone and lights during a ride. Smartphones are increasingly useful to cyclists, and used for GPS, taking scenic photos or keeping track of social media on the go.
Using spinning magnets, the Cydekick generates power to your mounted phone as you pedal, which prevents the battery from dying during particularly long trips. A must have for long distance cyclists.
There are many more weird, wacky inventions and accessories for a modern day cyclist. Whether you are looking for safety, practicality or eccentricity, cycling gadgets have never been so diverse.
