BICYCLE IS ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH. THANKS TO AN INNOVATIVE GERMAN COMPANY WE CAN RIDE IN BAD WEATHER TOO
Aerodynamic, lightweight and easily transportable, the windscreen for two-wheelers is designed to withstand wind and UV rays as well
Why give up cycling, one of the most sustainable means of transport (it’s environmentally friendly and good for your health) if it’s raining outside? That’s one of the questions that the guys at a German start-up called Rainrider (which develops products that make it easier for cyclists to get out and has the mission of promoting sustainable mobility) must have asked themselves. They have come up with a kind of windscreen for two wheels that acts as a shield in bad weather. It’s called RainRider Softtop. Yes, it’s a windshield, but if you look closely it’s also similar to a parasol, but designed with great care. Let’s find out what it is.
Tent dynamics
Although it looks just like an umbrella, the RainRider Softtop uses some of the ideas that are used in tent construction (including UV-resistant film) to ensure that they remain stable in windy conditions.
The company: “We designed the RainRider Softtop for people who already cycle or e-bike to work or who plan to do so more frequently in the future”
Carbon fibre and aluminium
To be mounted on a bicycle, the material chosen had to be light and elastic. That’s why the waterproof fabric (which is attached with a hook to the handlebars and fork) is stretched by a set of flexible aluminium and carbon fibre rods and plastic joints. And the weight? One and a half kilos. Plus it’s adjustable and foldable, so you can carry it in your rucksack. So in case of sudden rain, you can stop and mount it.
Aerodynamic umbrella
Mounting an umbrella on a bicycle could, however, create major movement problems. So the designers worked on aerodynamics to keep air resistance low. Not bad at all. And that’s not all. “On board there’s also an adjustable ventilation system that prevents the glass from fogging up, and another lighting system to increase visibility and pedalling safety even in the dark.
And you, would you go for a bike ride in the rain?
sources: www.curioctopus.it / www.wired.it
cover photo: www.rainrider.bike
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