Kickstarter.com is an online, democratic version of dragon’s den that sees you, the website visitor, take on the role of the investor. But instead of equity, you get the chance to buy things before they hit the shops. The crowd funding website, which has only recently opened up to British designers, now includes a number of interesting cycling-related projects.
Kickstarter allows project creators to set their own funding goal and deadline. If people like the project, they can pledge money in return for rewards to help make it a reality. Only if the project is successful in reaching its goal do backers pay the money they have pledged. If the project falls short, no one is charged.
Looking to take on folding bike giants Brompton, Dahon and Tern, start-up Nexibike claims its in-line folding design forms an easy-to-carry portfolio shape. The configuration also makes it easier to store behind a door or under a bed or desk. NexiBike features solid tyres for a puncture-free ride and a Sturmey-Archer two-speed kick-shift gear and coaster brake to avoid having to have cables to the rear wheel.
The designers of the bicymple would prefer it wasn’t referred to as a unicycle with front wheel, but that is the easiest way to describe it. According to its makers, it’s a stripped down, chainless, single speed that offers a unique ride. Pulling a lever to liberate the rear wheel to turn along with the front wheel makes possible ultra-tight cornering and “crab-riding.” The bicymple project has already secured pledges of over $25,000.
Other Kickstarter projects are wonderfully esoteric. Bryan Paxton is hoping to fund a graphical guide to over 50 black and white hand illustrations of bicycle dropouts from 1930-1990.
Cycle insurance from 40p per week
Cycle insurance from the ETA offers protection for both you and your bike. It includes new-for-old, third party insurance on any bike you ride , personal accident cover, race event cover and if you suffer a mechanical breakdown, we will come out and recover you and your bike.
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