Folding bikes becoming rage among pedaling enthusiasts & fitness freaks

Ludhiana, April 4, 2015: Folding bi-cycle, a concept introduced in the year 1810 basically for paratroopers is becoming a necessity and a rage  in car congested cities.  A folding bike, which needs couple of quick folds to fit into a car boot, laundry cupboard, a spot near your feet on the train is becoming a key commuting choice of the future among office goers, University and big manufacturing unit employees and camping enthusiasts.

Worldwide including India demand for folding and compact bikes that can be used in combination with public transport or with cars for urban computing  is on constant increase. Seeing the future demand many Indian and foreign bicycle manufacturing  companies participating in the three day India International Bicycle and Fitness Expo ,which opened here  yesterday  have showcased and introduced folding bikes.

“We believe that Park and  Pedal will be a key commuting choice of the future. One can keep a folded bike in a car trunk, drive part way, Park, and Pedal the rest of journey. Bi-modal transportation that is good for everybody, good for the planet, and easy on One’s wallet. A well designed  folding bike works like any regular bike and also have gears”, said R.D.Sharma, Chairman and Managing Director,  Hi-Bird Bicycles, a Safari group company which has introduced  a folding bike at the ongoing expo

“A folding bike which uses folding mechanism  of a magnet combined with shock absorber where the magnet connects and locks the back wheel section to the frame. To fold the bike in half, the magnet disconnects with one movement and in a second, and without having to use one's hands, the rear wheel rotates forward and the bike folds vertically. Folding bikes have a place in the home of inner city apartment dwellers, travelers, nomads and commuters. In fact, anywhere that space is a consideration”, said Sharma.

“At present a folding weights around 7-10 kg and costs between Rs 10,000- Rs 25,000. Many manufacturing units and office complexes and institutes with larges campuses are buying folding bikes apart from sport adventure and fitness freaks”, said Sharma.

More than 70 companies are taking part in the three day India International Bicycle and fitness expo which is expected to be visited by more than 30,000 visitors from various parts of the country.