Spanish designer José Hurtado started out as an architect before shifting his focus to industrial design. Among the projects in his newly-launched portfolio, one project in particular jumped out: the "Twist" bicycle concept.Twist [is] not just a bike, [it] is a union between people. Sometimes a change of direction in your life helps you to find yourself. With Twist, the change of direction will lead you to meet and enjoy the people, like you, who love cycling, mobility and [a healthy lifestyle].
The bike is designed to be reversible; hence, the unusual shape of the frame and positioning of the handlebars and saddle.The bike frame has a single arm that holds the wheel on two points, thus preventing movement and anchoring it securely. The frame is crossed by the pedal system rotating inside for the bearings. The turning circle of cycling is the same as conventional bicycles.
Thus, the hubless wheels aren't just for show: they serve as a point of attachment for a second frame, such that the tandem bike becomes a mirror image of itself when viewed in profile:
At first I thought that the concept could be extrapolated to accommodate any number of riders in a theoretically infinite daisy-chain, but given the shape and attachment points of the fork, alternating frames would necessitate a third wheel (in a manner of speaking), which could accommodate two forks, one on either side.
This, of course, is also assuming that the hubless wheels, unorthodox drivetrain, reversible frame and the 'twisting' mechanism itself are practical (or at least feasible) alternatives to those of the tried-and-true double diamond design.
Also, any ideas about a reliable braking mechanism for a hubless wheel?
Additional images and details via Hurtado's website.
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Comments
No adjustable seat, cant turn, the rotating trick actually does nothing, naive hubless wheel, pedals in opposing directions is a clear fatal flaw.. Goes on and on...
This type of design makes me worry for the future...
'Blue sky' thinking is great and the foundation for great designs, but please don't go to the trouble of realistic renderings if the concept isn't realistic...you don't do anyone any favors.
Unfortunately, render world doesn't match well with real world.
I mean has anyone looked at the gear ratios on this!!!
You'de have to peddle at least 250 times to get one revolution in the wheel.
I realise that this is a concept design but come on... someone tell people to stop with the hubless wheels!
The concept of daisy-chaining several riders together is terrifying.
This is an elegant concept and I would love to see it applied to a conventional hub-bed wheel.
Even better, if turning slightly while linked is accounted for.
How fun it would be, to link a company's teams together as a chain, and duke it out!
This bike itself would not be possible without the stronger metals and manufacturing techniques of today.
If we don't occasionally deviate from the standard design, it will be tough to "level up" over time. This is what breaks records.
But we don't all need to break records.
On the whole, the needs of the every day commuter are being ignored. They need a bike that is comfortable to ride, promotes a safe posture, and is easy to mount and dismount. Also, painless relibility is important. I can't imagine this bike's bearing faring well in a light snow or even through a muddy pothole. Or easy to mount in city clothes.
I would like more bicycle designers addressing the issues that would get more people on the road, from an environmental, public health, and socially responsible standpoint. For instance, the tandem component of this is excellent!