Eurobike 2023: Adaptable Platforms, Eco-friendly Materials, and Sustainable Infrastructure
Last week, we ventured to Frankfurt for Eurobike 2023. After immersing ourselves in the bustling fair, testing, clicking, shifting, and conquering numerous challenges, we have distilled our experience into three key concepts that have permeated throughout.
1. Platforms for growth
A paradigm shift is underway. The notion that your bike must neatly fit into a single category, with manufacturers offering an extensive lineup to cater to each niche, is slowly being dismantled. Nowadays, an increasing number of companies are prioritizing the creation of adaptable platforms that cater to individual riders’ needs, eliminating the necessity of having a garage overflowing with bikes. Companies like Bike43 are at the forefront of this movement, designing vehicles that grow alongside their users. They have crafted a versatile bike that accommodates you, your growing family, your belongings, and anything else you can throw at it. It’s akin to a Swiss Army knife of bikes. With this mindset, we perceive bicycles more as utility vehicles that can supplant cars rather than mere leisure machines for weekend warriors.
Discover SYSTEM ONE a unified platform creates a diverse transportation system of electric vehicles (EV).
2. Material choices and their environmental impact
“Reduce, reuse, recycle.” “Carbon footprint.” “Environmental impact.” These phrases frequently occupy our thoughts. We are bombarded with the notion of ecological responsibility. Consequently, we find great satisfaction in witnessing companies actively making substantial efforts to effect change. Enterprises such as Ultima Mobility have pushed the boundaries of material science, utilizing fully recycled polymers to create durable and eco-friendly bikes. Additionally, we have witnessed the integration of 3D printing in companies like Pilot Cycles, which not only reduces manufacturing waste but also exemplifies the compatibility of performance and sustainability in their fully 3D printed titanium bikes and components.
CESTA is a clear example of sustainability in relation to bike racks, as it utilizes recycled materials.
3. Beyond electrification
Let’s face it; e-bikes are here to stay. With advancements in batteries, motors, and shifters, they may even dominate the entire market. While this may not come as news, it’s what’s happening behind the scenes that truly distinguishes recent developments. Battery technology has progressed to the extent that some e-bikes resemble conventional bicycles, with no bulging downtubes or conspicuous battery packs in sight. Yet, the most remarkable aspect lies in the manufacturing, sales, repair, and recycling processes surrounding these batteries. It is the comprehensive infrastructure behind the scenes that yields the most significant impact. Similarly to our previous point, we recognize that establishing a more sustainable product life cycle is crucial for both companies and riders.
Find more about YAK our e-bike concept for food delivery.
Wherever our journey takes us, we always keep a keen eye out for what lies ahead—the emerging trends and innovative breakthroughs. Eurobike 2023 has been an exhilarating ride, and now, armed with the knowledge we’ve gained, we are eager to apply it to the work we do.
